Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs BMW X5

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" from 1979. Despite continuous updates, the G-Class maintained its distinctive features, such as a 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, while functional changes like a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim were introduced. The interior was luxurious, with large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, while AMG models featured sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 BMW X5 showcased design elements reminiscent of the original model, with wide kidney grilles and sculpted bodywork. The M60i test vehicle featured Manhattan Green paint, 22-inch wheels, and a luxurious interior with Merino leather and carbon fibre trim. The interior aimed for simplicity with a panoramic curved display and minimized controls, enhanced by metallic accents and a high-end audio system. Despite its black interior theme, the X5 felt anything but monotonous, offering quality materials and a sophisticated ambiance, especially with ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof.

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 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. Both models featured a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions. 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 introduced an AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 BMW X5 M60i was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine, producing 532 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, aided by xDrive AWD and performance tires. Fuel consumption varied between 11.2 and 14.3 L/100 km. The M60i's dynamic M Adaptive suspension and M Sport brakes contributed to its performance, while the ride was firm yet communicative. The X5 offered impressive towing capacity and optional off-road packages for other trims, though the M60i was not off-road oriented.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than some 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 and provided good visibility and ease of parking due to its dimensions.

The 2026 BMW X5 accommodated five passengers with comfortable front seats offering various adjustments. The M60i featured a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, and four-zone climate control. Rear seat comfort was acceptable, with good headroom but limited leg support. The X5 offered 960 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 2,047 litres with the seats folded. A split-opening power liftgate added convenience.

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 features, along with a Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment.

The 2026 BMW X5's Curved Display combined a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The iDrive 8.5 system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a cloud-based navigation system. A digital assistant was available, though it had limitations with Apple CarPlay. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system provided exceptional sound quality, and the infotainment menus were best explored when stationary.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lacked safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA but included 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 BMW X5 offered standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. The optional Driving Assistant Professional Package included advanced systems. The X5 received a four-star rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.