2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" 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, making it stand out in the luxury SUV market. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim, with wheel options ranging from 18 to 22 inches. The interior was opulent, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, with AMG models offering sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, particularly in the Execline trim, exuded a sense of luxury with its full-LED lighting, power-adjustable heated side mirrors, and sculpted silhouette. The Peak Edition added rugged elements like all-terrain tires and blackout trim pieces. The Execline trim featured 21-inch alloy wheels and R-Line design elements. Inside, the Atlas boasted quilted diamond-pattern leather seats, metallic accents, and a 12-inch touchscreen. Despite its upscale appearance, the Atlas was priced competitively, starting at $54,492 for the base Comfortline trim, making it more affordable than many of its competitors.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the 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 Volkswagen Atlas was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada, the Atlas prioritized flexibility over excitement. It offered a 0-100 km/h time of approximately eight seconds. The Drive Mode Select system provided various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Custom, and Snow. The Atlas recorded a fuel consumption of 10.7 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, with the AWD system performing well in rain and light snow. However, the ride quality was compromised by the Execline model's 21-inch wheels, transmitting vibrations on rough surfaces.

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 forward visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in accommodating passengers and cargo. The Execline's front seats were heated, ventilated, and equipped with massage functions. The second row offered captain's chairs that folded flat, and the third row provided decent leg support. Cargo capacity was a strong point, with 583 litres behind the third row and a total of 2,735 litres with all seats folded. The Atlas offered competitive space across all three rows, making it ideal for families and long trips.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with 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 were expected to be standard.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came with a 12-inch touchscreen running the MIB3 operating system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, and wireless connectivity. However, the MIB3 system was frustrating to use, with touch-sensitive controls that were invisible at night. The Harman Kardon audio system and Digital Cockpit Pro were highlights, but the overall tech experience prioritized form over function.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lacked safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA but offered standard driver-assistance features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes, and new features included route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centring.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS in 2025. The IQ.Drive suite of driver assistance features was standard, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control. The systems performed reliably during testing, enhancing the Atlas's safety credentials.