2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" from 1979. Despite continuous updates, the G-Class maintained its distinctive features, such as a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. For 2025, Mercedes introduced subtle styling updates, including a new grille and bumpers, while keeping traditional design elements intact. Functional changes included repositioning the rearview camera and adding new A-pillar trim and a rear spoiler to reduce noise. The G-Class offered a range of wheel options and an extensive Manufaktur program for customization.

Inside, the G-Class boasted a luxurious interior with a sci-fi aesthetic, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim. The dashboard prominently displayed switches for differential locks, and AMG models sported a more dynamic steering wheel. The interior was opulent, with Mercedes' design aesthetic carrying over to this rugged SUV, providing a blend of luxury and functionality.

The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse adopted a design reminiscent of a mini Chevrolet Tahoe, with an upright stance and high-set grille. Its exterior featured eye-slit LED headlights and a semi-floating roof design. The Traverse's grille varied by model, with the Z71 trim standing out with red tow hooks and all-terrain tires. Wheel sizes ranged from 18 to 22 inches, and a Midnight/Sport Edition package added a sleek blacked-out look. Inside, the Traverse featured a 17.7-inch touchscreen and an 11-inch digital instrument cluster. The interior materials were smart, with soft-touch surfaces and contrasting stitching, while the base LT trim offered a range of comfort features, including heated seats and a hands-free power liftgate.

The Traverse's interior was spacious, with comfortable first-row seats and excellent storage options. Second-row passengers enjoyed ample space, while the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, though not as extensive as larger SUVs or minivans. The Traverse provided a practical and comfortable interior for families and offered a range of seating configurations.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models included a mild-hybrid system and a nine-speed automatic transmission with permanent four-wheel drive. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 96 km/h in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved the same in 4.2 seconds. The AMG model featured a new AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse, with its car-like unibody architecture, offered better road manners than the larger Tahoe. It featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Traverse's handling was more controlled and agile than body-on-frame vehicles, though it exhibited some lean in corners. The turbo-four engine provided adequate power, with a 0 to 100 km/h time of around eight seconds. However, engine noise was a concern, and the AWD system required manual engagement. The Traverse offered various drive modes, but its performance was not particularly sporty.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs. It offered a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. The driving position was upright, reflecting its utilitarian origins. Cargo space was limited compared to rivals, with 640 litres available with the rear seats in place. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive for a luxury SUV. Its compact dimensions made parking easier, and the commanding view of the road was a notable advantage.

The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse, nearly 18 centimetres shorter than a Tahoe, provided ample passenger space but less cargo capacity. The RS trim offered seven-passenger seating with captain's chairs, while other trims accommodated eight passengers. First-row occupants enjoyed comfortable seats and excellent storage options. Second-row passengers had good space, but the third row was best for children. Cargo space was generous, with 648 litres behind the third row and 2,764 litres with all seats folded. The Traverse's flat load floor enhanced usability, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included dual 12.3-inch screens, creating a seamless display across the dashboard. The off-road menu provided useful information, and the "Transparent Hood" feature aided in navigating obstacles. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were standout features, along with a Burmester 3D surround sound system. The G-Class also offered a rear-seat entertainment system with dual 11.6-inch touchscreens.

The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse boasted an 11-inch digital instrument cluster and a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen with Google built-in. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Google Maps for navigation. The system was intuitive and responsive, with easy access to climate controls. Standard features included a satellite radio trial, Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless phone charger, and remote start. The Traverse's base audio system had six speakers, with an optional 12-speaker Bose system available.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication. Expected standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. The G-Class also featured Mercedes' Pre-Safe system, which prepared the vehicle for an imminent crash. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centring, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse offered a comprehensive set of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Enhanced Driving package added GM's Super Cruise hands-free driver-assistance technology and other features. The Traverse earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, with room for improvement in some areas.