Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Acura RDX

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 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 for the base G 550 models. The interior was luxurious, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, with AMG models offering sportier steering wheels.

The 2025 Acura RDX, positioned between the smaller ADX and larger MDX, offered a range of packages, including Technology, A-Spec, Advance, and A-Spec Advance. The RDX's styling evolved with a frameless grille and new wheel designs, while the A-Spec Advance model featured a sportier look with gloss black accents. The interior boasted a panoramic sunroof, various upholstery options, and quality materials like premium leather and simulated suede. However, the A-Spec trim's gauges were harder to read, and the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system was less desirable. Despite these drawbacks, the RDX provided a comfortable and stylish driving experience.

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-liter inline-six engine with 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-liter 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 four-wheel drive. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 60 mph 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 dynamics.

The 2025 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided dynamic performance. The Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Snow driving modes, with adaptive damping suspension available on higher trims. While the RDX's performance was lively, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 19.3 mpg during testing. The RDX excelled in daily driving, with responsive steering and braking, but lacked the thrill sought by driving enthusiasts.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, though 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 22.6 cubic feet available with the rear seats in place. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, slightly less than some competitors. Despite its size, the G-Class provided good visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2025 Acura RDX, particularly in the A-Spec Advance trim, featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, along with a heated steering wheel and rear seats. The front seats were comfortable, but rear seat comfort was less satisfactory for taller passengers. The RDX offered 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The interior layout was practical, with generous storage and a power liftgate for easy access.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was equipped with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two 12.3-inch screens served as the gauge cluster and infotainment touchscreen, with off-road menus and a "Transparent Hood" feature for enhanced visibility. Notable options included a Burmester 3D surround sound system and a rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2025 Acura RDX featured a 10.2-inch display controlled by the True Touchpad Interface (TTI), which required coordination between the touchpad and display. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa Built-in, with additional controls for climate and audio. Higher trims included a navigation system and an Acura/ELS Studio premium sound system with 16 speakers.

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

The 2025 Acura RDX came with the AcuraWatch safety package, offering features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added low-speed braking and a surround-view camera system. The RDX received a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS and a five-star overall crash-test rating from NHTSA.