2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "Geländewagen" from 1979. Despite subtle 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 character was further emphasized by its robust doors and latches, which produced a distinctive clacking noise. 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 ambient lighting and metallic trim. The AMG models added sporty elements like a specialized steering wheel, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder combined smooth and chunky design elements, with a restyled front bumper and a simplified grille. The exterior changes were minimal, with new wheel designs and a satin finish on badges. Inside, the Pathfinder saw more significant updates, including a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen and a redesigned steering wheel. The interior was practical and modern, with features like a wider silver strip above the climate controls and semi-aniline leather on the Platinum trim. Despite these updates, the Pathfinder's interior remained simple and functional, with good materials for its price point.

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 with 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 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 performance.

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder continued with its naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque, or 295 hp and 270 lb-ft in the Rock Creek trim with premium fuel. Both trims offered a towing capacity of 2,720 kilograms. Despite a nine-speed automatic transmission, the Pathfinder's acceleration was sluggish, and its performance was comparable to other V6-powered competitors. Fuel economy was estimated at 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the city for the Platinum model. The Rock Creek trim, with its all-terrain tires, suffered from increased noise and reduced grip, making it less appealing for off-road adventures.

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, slightly less than some competitors. Despite its size, the G-Class provided good visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder featured "Latch and Glide" second-row seats, making it family-friendly. It offered generous headroom and legroom in the first two rows, while the third row was tighter. The Pathfinder could seat eight passengers or seven with captain's chairs in the Platinum trim. Cargo space was ample, with 470 litres behind the third row and 2,279 litres with the second and third rows folded. The Pathfinder included practical features like a power liftgate and a roof rack, enhancing its usability.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included dual 12.3-inch screens, an off-road menu, and a "Transparent Hood" feature. 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 Nissan Pathfinder came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It introduced Qi2 wireless charging and featured the Invisible Hood View and Front Wide View cameras. The Platinum trim offered a head-up display and a 13-speaker Bose audio system, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA, but it was expected to include standard driver-assistance features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system and new features like route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centring were also included.

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder earned five stars from NHTSA but only four stars in the frontal crash test. It included standard driver aids like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The ProPilot Assist highway driving aid was standard, though it lacked hands-free capability.