2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Mazda CX-5

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 and prominent corner lights. The vehicle's robust doors and latches added to its unique character, while functional changes like a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim enhanced its practicality. The interior was opulent, with a sci-fi aesthetic featuring large round vents and ambient lighting, while AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 impressed with its evolved Kodo design language, giving it a sculpted and purposeful appearance. The front featured a Signature Wing grille and new LED headlights, while the rear had angular lighting and a new "MAZDA" script badge. However, the wheel designs were underwhelming, with the base 17-inch wheels appearing small on the larger body. Inside, the CX-5 continued Mazda's tradition of high-quality interiors, with a clean dashboard design and a prominent central touchscreen. While materials were generally premium, some hard plastics detracted from the upscale feel.

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 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 model also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 was powered by a carryover SkyActiv-G 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the engine felt underpowered for the vehicle's 1,747-kilogram weight. The CX-5's 0-96 km/h time of 9.6 seconds was slower than competitors, and the transmission lacked responsiveness. The absence of the previous generation's turbocharged engine was notable, but Mazda planned a hybrid variant for 2027. Despite the power deficit, the CX-5 excelled in handling, offering direct steering and well-managed body roll.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was more compact than other luxury SUVs, with a shorter wheelbase and narrower body. This resulted in a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. The driving position was upright, reflecting its utilitarian origins. Cargo space was limited, with 640 litres available with the rear seats in place. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, comparable to midsize pickup trucks. Its relatively short length and narrow width made parking easier, while thin roof pillars and corner lamps improved visibility.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5's dimensional growth translated into a more spacious interior. The wheelbase stretch improved rear knee clearance, and rear headroom was class-leading. Front legroom was competitive, and cargo space increased to 954 litres behind the second row. Folding the rear seats expanded cargo capacity to 1,882 litres. Larger door openings facilitated entry and exit, and the GT trim's Premium Package added a hands-free power liftgate. Towing capacity decreased to 680 kilograms, aligning with some competitors but trailing others.

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 touchscreen, creating a continuous display. An off-road menu and "Transparent Hood" feature enhanced functionality. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were notable MBUX features. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment system were expected to be standard.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5's infotainment system was significantly upgraded, featuring a 12.9-inch touchscreen on all trims, with a 15.6-inch option on the GT trim. Google built-in provided native navigation and voice assistant functionality. A year's free data trial was included, with a subscription required thereafter. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with wireless connectivity on higher trims. A 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster was standard, though its execution was lacking. The removal of a physical volume knob was a drawback, and the climate control interface was suboptimal. Higher trims added a Bose audio system and additional features.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication. Standard driver-assistance features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. 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 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive standard safety suite, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind spot monitors, and more. The GT trim added an adaptive front-lighting system, while the Premium Package included additional features like front cross-traffic alert and a driver monitoring system. Crash test results were pending, but the outgoing model had received high safety ratings. Mazda's strong safety track record suggested the new CX-5 would continue to perform well in safety evaluations.