Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Nissan Murano

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic, boxy design that harked back 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 robust doors and latches added to its unique character, while functional changes like a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim enhanced its practicality. The G-Class offered a range of wheel options, with the AMG G 63 models featuring larger wheels and optional carbon-fiber trim. Inside, the G-Class boasted a luxurious interior with a sci-fi aesthetic, highlighted by ambient lighting and metallic trim. The dashboard prominently displayed switches for differential locks, and AMG models featured a sportier steering wheel.

The 2025 Nissan Murano introduced a fresh front-end design with a wing motif lighting signature and a wider stance. The model was nearly three inches wider and had an extra 1.4 inches of ground clearance compared to its predecessor. The Murano's side profile featured a chrome arch and winged LEDs, reminiscent of the Hyundai Tucson but with a more cohesive and sophisticated appearance. Standard 20-inch wheels were offered, with the Platinum trim receiving 21-inch wheels. Inside, the Murano's interior was modernized with a sleeker dash layout and a single housing for the infotainment and driver-information displays. The push-button gear selector streamlined the center console, and the new "Murano glass-inspired" treatment added an ombre effect to the trim. The SL trim level introduced leatherette seating surfaces, replacing genuine leather.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lineup included the gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models, along with the all-electric G 580 variant. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models incorporated a mild-hybrid system for additional power at lower speeds, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive. 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 G 63 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2025 Nissan Murano featured a new 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with a variable compression ratio system, producing 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous V6 and CVT setup. The Murano offered front-wheel drive at the base level, with all-wheel drive standard on SL and Platinum trims. The high beltline did not compromise visibility, and the Invisible Hood View improved the line of sight at slow speeds. Noise cancellation was effective, especially in the Platinum AWD model, and the new Bose audio system enhanced the driving experience.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs, offering a tall-yet-short passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. The upright driving position was a nod to its utilitarian roots. Cargo space was limited to 22.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, and the side-hinged tailgate could complicate street parking. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, slightly less than some competitors. Despite its size, the G-Class provided good forward visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2025 Nissan Murano continued to offer impressive comfort features, including standard heated and power-adjustable front seats. The Platinum trim added massage functionality, while heated seat settings were accessible through the screen or via voice command with Google Built-In. The Zero Gravity seats provided comfort, though rear-seat heating was limited to the Platinum trim. Interior dimensions improved in the front row, with increased leg and headroom, but the second row lost legroom. Cargo volume was competitive, with 32.9 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats, and a power liftgate was standard.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two 12.3-inch screens served as the gauge cluster and infotainment touchscreen, 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 enhanced the driving experience. A Burmester 3D surround sound system was standard, with options for a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2025 Nissan Murano came equipped with wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The monolith-style display housed two 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and driver-information. Four USB type C ports were standard. The SL trim added Google Built-In, a Bose Premium Series audio system, and ambient lighting. The Platinum trim included a head-up display, a feature not standard on some competitors.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, park assist, a 360-degree camera system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, safe exit assist, and traffic sign recognition. 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 2025 Nissan Murano came standard with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. ProPILOT Assist was added, with SL and Platinum trims featuring ProPILOT Assist 1.1 for enhanced navigation-based speed adjustments. The third-generation Murano earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, and the new model added a passenger's side airbag and reinforced seating. SL and Platinum trims included a 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor and Invisible Hood View.