2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Jeep Cherokee

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, while the Manufaktur program offered extensive customization options. Inside, the G-Class boasted a luxurious interior with a sci-fi aesthetic, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim. The AMG models had sportier steering wheels, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee, compared to its predecessor, adopted a less polarizing, boxy shape reminiscent of the classic XJ Cherokee. However, its rugged look appeared somewhat generic among similar crossovers. The rear-end design was more successful, combining aerodynamic surfacing with distinctive taillights. The Cherokee shared its platform with other Stellantis models, offering consistent appearance across trim levels. The interior varied, with cloth upholstery in lower trims and leatherette in higher ones, emphasizing environmental considerations. Despite the plastic-heavy trim, Jeep's use of muted finishes was commendable. The Cherokee's interior exceeded expectations with a stylish dashboard and rotary shifter.

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 nine-speed automatic transmissions 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 introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee launched with a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a two-motor hybrid system, producing 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. Its AWD system featured a clutch-based rear-axle disconnect for improved fuel economy but lacked the capability of traditional 4WD systems. The Cherokee's Selec-Terrain drive modes and impressive approach and departure angles aided off-road performance. The hybrid system delivered smooth power application, while the steering required adjustments for optimal performance. Regenerative braking was limited, with a "low mode" available for increased braking force.

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 traditional design impacted cargo space, with 640 litres available behind the rear seats. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, comparable to midsize pickup trucks. Despite its size, the G-Class provided good visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee offered comparable headroom and legroom to competitors, with comfortable seats despite a deep dashboard and steep windshield. Upgrading to higher trims provided additional features like power seats and heated options. Rear-seat passengers had similar headroom, but competitors offered more legroom and cargo space. The Cherokee's towing capacity of 1,587 kilograms was impressive, matching certain RAV4 Hybrid versions. The dashboard maintained important analog controls, though some buttons were hard to find, and touch sensors for climate controls lacked feedback.

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, creating a continuous 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 enhanced the driving experience. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment were expected to be standard.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, running the Uconnect 5 system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging available on higher trims. The system was stable and upgradable via OTA updates. However, the digital cluster's graphics were plain, and vehicle settings were split between the touchscreen and dashboard buttons. The native navigation system was laggy compared to Android Auto, and the audio system showed little difference between trim levels.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lacked safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, typical for low-volume models. Standard driver-assistance features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centring, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee offered standard driver assistance features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keep assist. Active Driving Assist, combining lane centring with adaptive cruise control, was standard. Traffic sign recognition was included on the Overland model, with a surround-view camera system available. Crash test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable at the time of writing.