Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Lexus GX

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. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the base G 550 models. The interior was opulent, with a sci-fi aesthetic featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim. AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels, enhancing the rugged yet luxurious feel of the cabin.

The 2026 Lexus GX offered a range of packages for Canadian models, adding significant costs to the base price. The GX 550 Overtrail, with its rugged appearance, featured grey wheel arch cladding, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Overtrail model had a utilitarian yet quality-focused cabin with tan artificial leather and olive-green suede trim. The GX's design included a distinctive Lexus grille, LED headlights, and hood blisters for better visibility. Despite its boxy shape, the GX exuded style and capability, with a liftgate and substantial rear bumper completing its robust look.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lineup included gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models, alongside the all-electric G 580. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine with 443 horsepower, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, producing 577 hp. Both models included 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 G 63 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Lexus GX 550 was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 engine, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD. The Overtrail model added an electronic locking rear differential, adaptive suspension, and improved off-road angles. The GX excelled in challenging conditions, with systems like hill descent control ensuring stability. On-road, the adaptive suspension provided a comfortable ride, though the GX's fuel consumption was high, with observed figures around 14.0 L/100 km.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs, offering 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 its design made parking easier than larger rivals. The upright driving position and thin roof pillars provided good visibility.

The 2026 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail required some effort to enter, especially for shorter individuals. The interior featured comfortable power-adjustable front seats with NuLuxe upholstery, while real leather and massaging seats were available in higher packages. The Overtrail lacked a third-row seat, offering 1,291 litres of cargo space behind the second row. The GX's design included practical features like a protruding bumper for easy roof access, though it could soil clothes during loading.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It had dual 12.3-inch screens, creating a continuous display across the dashboard. The system included off-road menus and a "Transparent Hood" feature. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were notable MBUX features. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment were expected to be standard.

The 2026 Lexus GX included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen with the Lexus Interface infotainment system. The system was user-friendly, though daytime mode had low contrast. The GX offered complimentary connected services, including cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the Overtrail model featured panoramic and multi-terrain monitors for enhanced visibility.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA. Standard safety features included 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 Lexus GX came with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping aids, and Proactive Driving Assist. Additional features included blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Traffic Jam Assist was available with an active Drive Connect plan. The PDA system was helpful but could be uncomfortable, and lane-centring assist required manual corrections. The GX had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.