Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Hyundai IONIQ 5

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "Geländewagen" 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 opulent, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, with AMG models boasting sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 combined the aesthetics of a 1980s hatchback with modern crossover elements, resulting in a unique and attractive design. Its profile was defined by angular lines and a triangular shape, complemented by dark cladding around the wheels. The front featured a visor slit with rectangular headlights, while the rear had an integrated spoiler and darkened taillights. Inside, the Ioniq 5 was more utilitarian, with cloth upholstery and a tech-forward approach, including dual 12.3-inch screens and touch controls for the climate system. The interior's cold theme was offset by the advanced technology it housed.

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 lb-ft 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 and nine-speed automatic transmissions with permanent 4WD. The G 550 accelerated from 0 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 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a single-motor RWD powertrain with 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a dual-motor AWD option with 320 hp and 446 lb-ft. The Ioniq 5 N performance model boasted a dual-motor setup with up to 641 hp and 568 lb-ft. The dual-motor powertrain provided robust power, with a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.3 seconds. Drivers could choose from five regenerative braking settings, including a one-pedal driving mode. While the steering was direct, it lacked agility, and the vehicle's weight contributed to some lean in corners.

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 640 litres available with rear seats in place. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kg, and its design provided good visibility and easier parking compared to larger rivals.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured spacious front seats with standard eight-way power adjustments for the driver and heated front seats. The Ultimate Package added ventilated front seats and a "Relaxation" seat for the driver. The rear seat offered 1,002 mm of legroom, accommodating two adults comfortably. Cargo space was 745 litres with rear seats up, expanding to 1,655 litres with seats folded. The Ioniq 5 also included a 24-litre front trunk, though its cargo capacity was slightly less than some gas-powered crossovers.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two 12.3-inch screens served as the gauge cluster and infotainment touchscreen, with an off-road menu and "Transparent Hood" feature. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were notable MBUX features. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment system were expected to be standard.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate Package added a wireless smartphone charger, head-up display, and Bose audio system. The MyHyundai app allowed remote control and monitoring of the vehicle. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with voice commands and separate climate controls.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA, but it 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. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centring, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 came with standard safety features such as blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Ultimate Package added a surround-view camera system and Highway Driving Assist 2. The Ioniq 5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable. Its lane keep assist and blind spot camera system were particularly noteworthy.