2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Toyota RAV4

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" from 1979. Despite its modern updates, including a subtly redesigned grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features like the flat hood and prominent corner lights. The vehicle's robust doors and latches added to its unique character, making it stand out among luxury vehicles. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the base G 550 models. The interior was opulent, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, with AMG models offering sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 showcased a more blocky appearance, aligning with Toyota's SUV and truck designs. It offered three distinct design themes—Core, Rugged, and Sport—across five trim levels. The Core models evolved from past RAV4s, while the Rugged grade featured a boxy design with all-terrain tires and a roof rack. The Sport style introduced the RAV4 GR Sport, exclusive to the Plug-in Hybrid powertrain. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen that could be either 10.5 or 12.9 inches, depending on the trim. The interior was streamlined, with clever storage solutions and standard heated front seats in Canada.

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

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 featured a hybrid system with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, generating a combined 236 horsepower. Power was delivered to standard AWD through a CVT. The electric motor provided quick power off the line, while the four-cylinder engine offered 183 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque. The RAV4's suspension was tuned for comfort, with MacPherson front struts and a multi-link rear suspension. The Woodland trim, part of the Rugged style, included all-terrain tires and a tow hitch, offering a ground clearance of 21.6 centimetres. Fuel efficiency varied across trims, with the base LE rated at 5.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was more compact than other luxury SUVs, offering a tall-yet-short passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its traditional design impacted cargo space, with 640 litres available with the rear seats in place. The side-hinged tailgate facilitated loading, but the G-Class's towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms was slightly lower than some competitors. Despite its size, the G-Class provided good forward visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 maintained the same dimensions as its predecessor but optimized interior space with clever storage features. Cargo volume increased slightly, with 1,070 litres available with the seats up and 1,994 litres with the seats down. The interior included multiple storage shelves and a centre console that could be accessed from both sides. The RAV4 comfortably seated four passengers, with ample rear legroom, although the panoramic sunroof reduced headroom slightly. The RAV4's interior space was competitive, though it trailed larger models like the Honda CR-V.

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. 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, while a Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment system added luxury.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new operating system called Arene, offering a responsive and customizable interface. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch touchscreen were standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The touchscreen featured customizable tiles, and the Voice Assistant responded to a wide range of prompts. The RAV4's tech enhancements improved user experience and functionality.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class included a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes, and new features like route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centring were added for 2025. Safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering enhanced driver assistance features. The system included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. The RAV4's safety features were designed to improve responsiveness and detection, contributing to its strong safety record. Crash-testing results from IIHS and NHTSA were pending.