The G-Class has carried the Mercedes-Benz off-road torch for the past 45 years. And during that time, the SUV hasn't changed much. But for 2024, Mercedes is finally electrifying its iconic off-roader – to say the least – before the upcoming EQG EV arrives later this year.
The base G550 ditches its V8 engine in favor of a new turbocharged three-liter inline-six and a mild hybrid tract. That gives the base G-Class 443 horsepower, with the integrated starter generator alone delivering 20 hp. The system power of the innovation is a total of 27 hp. more than the previous model, but with less torque. The direct comparison between the innovation and the previous model is as follows:
2024 G550 - Turbo 3.0L I-6 Hybrid - 443 hp
2025 G550 - Biturbo 4.0L V-8 - 416 HP
An updated nine-speed torque converter automatic gives wider gear ratios overall, while all-wheel drive with a 40-60 torque split is standard. And even with the smaller displacement engine, the G550 still has excellent off-road power.
Three mechanical differential locks work in conjunction with a transfer case that offers excellent low gears. Ground clearance is unchanged, and the 30- and 31-degree angles of attack remain.
Mercedes is implementing an Off-Road Cockpit function in the MBUX infotainment system to support off-road driving. The Off-Road Cockpit displays items such as vehicle positioning, altitude, steering angle and temperature on the 12.3-inch touchscreen or the corresponding digital instrument panel, allowing users to customize the display as they see fit.
The “Clear Bonnet” feature borrowed from the EQE and GLC is also carried over, allowing the driver to see “through“ the front end of the car using the 360-degree camera from above.
Other extras include adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, road sign recognition, and more. The parking package also comes with a 360-degree overhead camera. Buyers can add things like adaptive steering assist, active emergency braking and route-based speed assist.
While the base G550 downsizes its engine, the performance-oriented G63 remains unchanged. The twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 makes 577 hp and features the same 48-volt mild hybrid setup as the base model. That's enough power to launch the G63 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds.
AMG Active Ride Control is a new option for the G63 and adds hydraulic roll stabilization and adjustable adaptive damping for better performance on and off the road. You can get it as part of the AMG Offroad Package Pro.
Both the base G550 and G63 get subtle visual upgrades for 2025. The G63 specifically comes with a new Manufaktur Hyper Blue Magno paint option, standard adaptive LED headlights and a refreshed bumper design. You can also choose from six different wheel options ranging from 20 to 22 inches.
One thing Mercedes isn't revealing is how much the new and improved G-Class costs. The 2024 model starts at $144,150 and the G63 is priced at $180,950. Expect the 2025 model to be more expensive in both trims.
