Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Jeep Wrangler 4xe

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 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, with a sci-fi aesthetic featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim. The AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys '41 Special Edition stood out with its unique color, wheel design, and tan fabric top, drawing attention even in Wrangler-populated Southern California. The WWII-inspired look was distinctive, though it bordered on cosplay. The Willys '41 offered various top options, including a body-color hardtop and the Sky One-Touch power-operated top. Inside, the Heritage Tan cloth seats matched the soft top, paired with an Olive Drab dashboard insert and exclusive '41 shifter knob. The cabin, typical of a Wrangler, was rugged and ready for dirt, with hard plastic materials and a basic infotainment system. Despite its rawness, the interior was practical for off-road adventures.

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 4WD. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG model also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe was America's best-selling plug-in hybrid, featuring a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors. This setup provided an estimated 21 miles of electric-only range and a combined 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The Wrangler 4xe offered three driving modes: Hybrid, Electric, and E-Save, allowing drivers to optimize power and efficiency. In Hybrid mode, the vehicle delivered impressive performance, while Electric mode enabled quiet, emission-free driving. The Wrangler 4xe excelled off-road, but its on-road performance was hindered by a noisy interior and basic handling.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was a compact luxury SUV, 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 Jeep Wrangler 4xe accommodated four adults comfortably, with the option to squeeze a fifth passenger in the back. The interior featured manual front seat adjusters and cloth upholstery, with premium options available on higher trims. Storage space was limited, requiring creative solutions for personal items. The Wrangler 4xe's soft top allowed for easy open-air driving, but loading cargo was more challenging compared to the hard top. The vehicle offered 27.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 67.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

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 for improved visibility. Notable options included a Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment. The G-Class also offered advanced voice recognition and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Uconnect 5 technology. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional upgrades like navigation and an Alpine sound system. The touchscreen was intuitive and responsive, with analog controls for volume and tuning. The Alpine sound system effectively reduced ambient noise, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lacked safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, but it offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. The G-Class also featured the Pre-Safe system, which prepared the vehicle for an imminent crash.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe offered limited safety technologies, with forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control as standard. The optional Active Safety Group included important features like blind-spot monitoring, but it required additional packages. The Wrangler 4xe received mediocre safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, highlighting the need for improvements in safety technology and occupant protection.