2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Genesis GV70

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic, boxy design that has been a hallmark since its origins in 1979 as the utilitarian "G-Wagen." Despite continuous updates, the G-Class maintained its distinctive flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust body sides. For 2025, Mercedes introduced subtle styling updates, including a new grille and bumpers, while preserving traditional features like the clacking noise of its hefty doors. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The interior exuded opulence with large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, while AMG models featured sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 showcased Hyundai's luxury arm's prowess in crafting premium vehicles, embodying the "Athletic Elegance" design philosophy. Its refined style was marked by a strong grille, sweeping profile, and a new Ceres Blue colour option. The front fascia featured a redrawn crest-shaped grille and two-line headlamps with micro lens array lighting. Inside, the GV70 boasted a 27-inch OLED screen dominating the dashboard, complemented by redesigned lighting elements. The Sport model offered unique grille patterns, dark chrome moulding, and carbon fibre trim, with interior options ranging from deep blue with orange stitching to a sporty red and black combination.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the G 550 with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. The AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions, with permanent 4WD and locking differentials. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 96 km/h in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG model introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Genesis GV70's base engine was a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, generating 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The 3.5T Sport trim featured a 3.5-litre turbocharged V6, producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The GV70 offered Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, along with a new Terrain Mode for various surfaces. Hydro bushings and Highway Body Motion Control improved ride comfort, while the Road Preview feature used cameras to enhance suspension response, ensuring a smooth ride across diverse road conditions.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not as large as some luxury SUVs, offered a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its traditional design impacted cargo space, with 640 litres available with rear seats in place. The side-hinged tailgate facilitated loading but could be cumbersome when street parked. With a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, the G-Class was competitive with midsize pickup trucks. Its compact dimensions and thin roof pillars provided good visibility and ease of parking, despite its commanding road presence.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 provided ample space for tall drivers in the front seats, though the 27-inch OLED screen was partially obscured by the steering wheel. The centre console featured a rotary shifter and infotainment dial, which could be confusing during quick gear changes. Rear seats offered headroom and shoulder room, but legroom was less generous. The sloping roofline contributed to a slightly cramped feel in the back. Cargo space was adequate but fell short compared to competitors like the BMW X3.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two 12.3-inch screens served as the gauge cluster and infotainment display, creating a seamless visual experience. The off-road menu provided useful information, while the "Transparent Hood" feature aided in navigating obstacles. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition enhanced usability, with a Burmester 3D surround sound system expected as standard. Rear-seat entertainment included dual 11.6-inch touchscreens for streaming content.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 introduced a 27-inch OLED touchscreen capable of over-the-air updates. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with customizable themes and a 360-degree Surround View Monitor. Digital gauges offered map views and ADAS readouts, while voice commands controlled climate, infotainment, and windows. The Genesis Digital Key allowed smartphone-based access, and a fingerprint authentication system enabled keyless starting.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was equipped with standard driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes by engaging seatbelt tensioners and closing windows. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centring, and an emergency-stop function.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, and blind-spot collision avoidance assist. The Highway Driving Assist II technology detected driver hand placement on the steering wheel. While the 2026 model hadn't been tested by safety organizations, the 2025 GV70 received top ratings, suggesting similar performance for the refreshed version.