2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Volvo XC60

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic, boxy design that harkened back to its 1979 origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen." Despite continuous updates, the G-Class maintained its distinctive flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. Subtle styling updates for 2025 included a new grille and bumpers, but the traditional design elements remained unchanged. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim, while the interior boasted opulent features like large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, giving it a sci-fi aesthetic.

The 2026 Volvo XC60, available in B5 mild hybrid and T8 Plug-in Hybrid variants, offered a sleek design with a new Forest Lake paint colour that shimmered in sunlight. The XC60's nearly decade-old design aged gracefully, complemented by 22-inch wheels that added presence. Inside, the XC60 Ultra trim featured a clean Scandinavian design with plush Nappa leather, premium wood trim, and metal speaker grilles. The minimalist interior, while elegant, required some adjustment for users to become familiar with the controls. The XC60's interior exuded calm and comfort, making it an appealing choice for long-distance travel.

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, enhancing power at lower speeds. 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 boasted an AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, improving both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Volvo XC60 B5 housed a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 247 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain included a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The XC60's acceleration to 100 km/h took 6.9 seconds, though turbo lag and transmission response occasionally hindered power delivery. Fuel efficiency was slightly below expectations, with real-world consumption exceeding official ratings. The XC60's ride quality was affected by the 22-inch wheels, but the air suspension provided comfort in most conditions. The XC60 excelled in highway travel, though it wasn't designed for off-road adventures.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not as spacious as some luxury SUVs, offered a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its compact dimensions made it easier to manoeuvre and park compared to larger rivals. The G-Class provided 640 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place, and a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms. Despite its utilitarian roots, the G-Class offered a commanding view of the road and reasonable forward visibility.

The 2026 Volvo XC60 excelled in long-distance travel comfort, with top-tier front seats featuring heating, cooling, massage, and extending leg supports. Rear seats were less comfortable, with firm cushions and limited legroom. The XC60 offered 613 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,410 litres with the rear seats folded. In-cabin storage was adequate, with thoughtful features like a tamboured cover for cupholders and large door bins. The XC60's compact dimensions made it easy to park, though the 22-inch wheels required caution to avoid damage.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Dual 12.3-inch screens served as the gauge cluster and infotainment touchscreen, creating a seamless display. The G-Class included off-road menus, augmented reality navigation, and a "Transparent Hood" feature for enhanced visibility. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment system were also expected to be standard.

The 2026 Volvo XC60 introduced a larger 11.2-inch touchscreen with Volvo Car UX software and a four-year subscription to Digital Services, including Google built-in apps. The infotainment system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though Apple CarPlay required a wired connection. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system offered premium sound quality, though it came at a significant cost. The infotainment system functioned well, though some users found navigating saved radio stations cumbersome.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication. Expected standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. The G-Class also featured Mercedes' Pre-Safe system, which prepared the vehicle for an imminent crash. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centring, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2026 Volvo XC60 did not receive a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS due to an Acceptable rating in the side-impact crash test. However, it earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The XC60 offered a range of safety features, including forward collision warning with large animal detection, oncoming collision mitigation, and intersection braking assist. The Pilot Assist system, while functional, lacked the sophistication of competitors' systems, and the lane keep assist system required improvement.