2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 INFINITI QX80

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. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim. The G-Class offered a range of wheel options, with the AMG G 63 models featuring larger wheels and carbon-fibre trim. Inside, the G-Class boasted a luxurious interior with a sci-fi aesthetic, featuring ambient lighting and metallic trim. The AMG models had sportier steering wheels, while the standard models retained a more traditional look.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 embraced a bold, blocky design with a tall stance and high shoulder lines. Its front featured a distinctive two-part grille inspired by a bamboo forest, flanked by LED headlights and piano-key daytime running lights. The rear showcased a taillight light bar and wide Infiniti lettering. The QX80 Sport trim added a wider mesh grille and dark matte chrome trim. Inside, the QX80 offered a modern and luxurious cabin with four screens, real leather, and high-quality materials like aluminum and open-pore wood. The Sport models featured a Dusk Blue interior theme, adding a touch of sophistication to the spacious and comfortable interior.

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 4WD. 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 G 63 also featured an AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 transitioned to a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, generating 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, the QX80 offered a smooth and immediate power delivery. It accelerated from zero to 96 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The QX80's body-on-frame platform provided increased torsional rigidity and lateral stiffness, while the suspension system included air springs and adaptive dampers. Despite its size, the QX80 maintained a comfortable ride, although it exhibited notable body lean and heavy steering.

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 640 litres with the rear seats in place, and the towing capacity was 3,500 kilograms. The G-Class provided good forward visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 was a large SUV with a 5,365-mm length and a 3,075-mm wheelbase, accommodating up to seven passengers. It featured standard leather seats, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated seats. The Autograph trim offered massaging seats. The second-row captain’s chairs and third-row bench provided ample space and comfort. Cargo space was 623 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,860 litres with the seats folded.

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. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were notable features. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment system were expected to be standard.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 offered a pair of 14.3-inch screens, Google built-in, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included a 5G connection, a 14-speaker Klipsch audio system, and a biometric cooling system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, although some controls were buried in submenus. The QX80 also featured a head-up display, wireless charging, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was equipped with standard driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It also featured the Pre-Safe system and new features like route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centring. Safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were not available.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 came with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technology, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and ProPilot Assist 1.1. The Autograph trim offered ProPilot Assist 2.1 for hands-free driving. The QX80 earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, but NHTSA ratings were not available.