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 "G-Wagen" 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 interior was opulent, with large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, while AMG models featured sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 Lexus GX offered a rugged appearance, especially in the Overtrail trim, with features like gray wheel arch cladding, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. The GX's interior emphasized utility with industrial design themes, yet it exuded quality with advanced digital displays. The exterior design included a distinctive Lexus grille and triple-beam LED headlights, while the interior featured tan artificial leather and simulated suede trim. The GX's tall windows and hood blisters aided visibility, and the liftgate design added to its rugged charm.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lineup included the 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 included a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions. The G 550 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 did it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG G 63 also boasted an AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Lexus GX 550 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine with 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD. The Overtrail trim added an electronic locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select settings, and a low-speed cruise control system. The adaptive variable suspension and E-KDSS improved off-road capability, while the GX's on-road performance was aided by its adaptive suspension. The GX accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, but its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 17 mpg in combined driving.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class 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 22.6 cubic feet available behind the rear seats. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds and provided good visibility with thin roof pillars and short overhangs, making parking easier.

The 2026 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail required some effort to enter, especially with optional rock sliders. The interior featured comfortable power-adjustable front seats with NuLuxe upholstery, while the Luxury trim offered real leather and massaging seats. The Overtrail lacked a third-row seat, providing 45.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. The GX's storage space was adequate, but wireless smartphone charging was an optional feature. The high load height and protruding bumper added utility but 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, an off-road menu, and a "Transparent Hood" feature. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were notable MBUX features. A Burmester 3D surround sound system was standard, with options like a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2026 Lexus GX had a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 14-inch touchscreen with the Lexus Interface infotainment system. The system was user-friendly but had limitations in displaying multiple menus. The GX included complimentary trial subscriptions to connected services and featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Overtrail trim had a panoramic-view monitor and multi-terrain monitor, though the view activation button was poorly placed.

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, and new features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centering, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2026 Lexus GX came with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included high-beam assist, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. Additional features included blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. The PDA system provided subtle braking and steering inputs, though it could be uncomfortable. The lane-centering assist had some unnatural steering inputs, and the adaptive cruise control's braking was not as smooth as expected. Safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were unavailable.