2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 INFINITI QX60

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "Geländewagen" from 1979. Despite subtle styling updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, including a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the base G 550 models. The interior was opulent, with large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, while AMG models featured sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 INFINITI QX60, offered in Luxe, Sport, and Autograph trims, showcased a stylish exterior with a new grille design inspired by a bamboo forest. The Sport trim featured gloss black wheels and a diamond-mesh grille pattern. Inside, the QX60 offered a range of interior colours and materials, with the Autograph trim boasting premium semi-aniline leather and real wood accents. The cabin was upscale, with digital displays and a touch-sensing dashboard, though the driving position in the Autograph trim was less than ideal. The QX60 provided a smooth ride in Auto mode, but its suspension felt too soft at higher speeds.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the base 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. 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 G 63 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 INFINITI QX60 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-four VC-Turbo engine, producing 268 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and a towing capacity of up to 2,720 kilograms. The QX60 averaged 11.6 L/100 km in Auto mode, offering a fuel economy advantage over the Nissan Pathfinder. However, the premium fuel requirement diminished this benefit. The QX60's AWD system lacked sophistication, and its suspension felt too soft at higher speeds, making it less suitable for enthusiastic driving on mountain roads.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs, offering a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its cargo space of 640 litres was less than rivals like the Range Rover. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms and provided good forward visibility, making it easier to park than larger competitors.

The 2026 INFINITI QX60 offered seven-passenger seating in Luxe and Sport trims, with the Autograph trim featuring six seats due to second-row captain's chairs. The QX60's third-row seats were tight for adults, and the cargo space behind the third row was 411 litres, with a maximum of 2,135 litres available. The Autograph trim included ventilated front seats and a massage function, but the driving position was less than ideal.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It had dual 12.3-inch screens, an off-road menu, and a "Transparent Hood" feature. Notable MBUX features included augmented reality navigation and excellent voice recognition. A Burmester 3D surround sound system was expected to be standard, along with a rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2026 INFINITI QX60 introduced a Google built-in infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, offering Google Assistant, Google Maps, and access to apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a Klipsch premium audio system. The Autograph trim featured a 20-speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere setup, though the audio quality was not as satisfying as competitors. The QX60 also included a digital instrument cluster and a head-up display.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA. Expected standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The G-Class also featured the Pre-Safe system and new features like route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centring.

The 2026 INFINITI QX60 included standard driver assistance systems like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. ProPilot Assist 1.1 was standard, with ProPilot Assist 2.1 offering hands-free driving on the Autograph trim. However, the driver assist tech needed improvement, with issues like abrupt handoffs and delayed activation. The QX60 received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.