Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs INFINITI QX80

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "Geländewagen" from 1979. Despite subtle styling updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, including a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the base G 550 models. The G-Class offered a range of wheel options and an extensive Manufaktur program for personalized paint and trim combinations. Inside, the G-Class boasted a luxurious interior with a sci-fi aesthetic, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim. The dashboard prominently displayed switches for differential locks, while AMG models sported a more dynamic steering wheel.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 embraced a bold, blocky design with a tall stance and high shoulder lines. Its two-part grille, inspired by a bamboo forest, was flanked by LED headlights and piano-key daytime running lights. The rear featured a taillight light bar and wide Infiniti lettering. The QX80 Sport trim added a wider mesh grille, dark matte chrome trim, and gloss-black accents. Inside, the QX80 offered a modern and luxurious cabin with four screens, including one for rear passengers. High-quality materials like aluminum and open-pore wood trim adorned the interior, while Sport models featured a Dusk Blue theme. The QX80's interior was spacious and comfortable, with synthetic or real leather options and advanced technology.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lineup included gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models, along with the all-electric G 580. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models incorporated a mild-hybrid system and a nine-speed automatic transmission with permanent four-wheel drive. The G 550 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG G 63 introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics. The G-Class excelled in off-road capabilities, with the G 63 offering a more luxurious and powerful experience.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 transitioned to a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and full-time four-wheel drive optional. The QX80's 4WD system lacked low-range gearing, focusing on Auto and 4H modes. The V6 provided immediate power delivery, achieving 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The QX80's body-on-frame platform offered increased torsional rigidity and lateral stiffness. Towing capacity remained at 8,500 pounds. The QX80's suspension included double-wishbone setups with air springs and adaptive dampers, providing adjustable ground clearance. Despite its size, the QX80 offered a comfortable ride, though it exhibited body lean and heavy steering.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs. It was nearly nine inches shorter than a standard-wheelbase Range Rover, with a shorter wheelbase and narrower width. This design provided ample headroom but limited legroom. The G-Class featured a traditional driving position and a side-hinged tailgate. Cargo space was 22.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, less than competitors like the Range Rover and Lexus LX. Towing capacity was 7,716 pounds. The G-Class offered good visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 was a massive SUV with a 211.2-inch length and a 121-inch wheelbase, accommodating up to seven passengers. It featured standard synthetic leather, power-adjustable seats, and front-seat heating. Higher trims offered leather upholstery, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and ventilated, with power adjustments. The third-row bench was spacious and heated in the Autograph trim. Power-folding third-row seats were standard, with controls accessible via the touchscreen. Cargo space was 22 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 101 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It had dual 12.3-inch screens, creating a continuous display. The off-road menu provided useful information, and the "Transparent Hood" feature aided in navigating obstacles. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were standout features. A Burmester 3D surround sound system was standard, with options like a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 boasted a pair of 14.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment. It included Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. A 5G connection enabled a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though some controls were buried in sub-menus. The QX80 featured a 14-speaker Klipsch audio system, with a 24-speaker system available on higher trims. Additional tech included a biometric cooling system, head-up display, dashcam, and in-car camera.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lacked safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA. Standard driver-assistance features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centering, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 came with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technology, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, ProPilot Assist 1.1, and more. ProPilot Assist 2.1 offered hands-free driving on certain highways. The QX80 earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable.