Facelifted 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class revealed

The second-generation 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been refreshed with a full range of electrified powertrains, styling revisions and new technology designed to keep the six-year-old 4x4 off-roader relevant for a few more years.

The big news is the mass adoption of Mercedes-Benz’s 48-volt mild-hybrid system across the range, which sees the G 500 switch from a twin-turbo V8 to a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder that now features a turbocharger and an electric supercharger to produce 330kW and 560Nm of torque.

The G 450d, meanwhile, produces 270kW/750Nm from its mild-hybrid 3.0-litre turbo-diesel, while the flagship G 63 AMG pumps out 430kW/850Nm from its twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8.

Using an integrated starter generator, all three engines benefit from an additional 15kW/200Nm boost under acceleration, with enhanced levels of engine-off coasting for improved efficiency.

According to the car-maker, the G 500 is capable of averaging up to 10.9L/100km, the G 450d 8.7L/100km and the G 63 a less-impressive-sounding 14.7L/100km.

Ensuring the SUV slips through the air a little easier than before, designers have smoothed-off the G-wagen’s blocky looks by creating a new four-louvre grille (instead of the previous three) and redesigning the front bumper.

There’s also a subtle A-pillar spoiler and new lip on the top of the windscreen, with the latter designed to slash wind noise while reducing the drag coefficient from 0.53 to 0.48Cd.

The front-faced camera now sits lower in the front bumper and offers a new ‘transparent bonnet’ view to help drivers spot unseen obstacles.

The AMG version also gets its own revamped grille, six new wheel designs (20-22-inch) and fresh paint options.

Inside, the G-Class gets Mercedes-Benz’s latest MBUX infotainment system, along with new heated or cooled cup holders and a wireless phone charger.

For the first time there’s also keyless entry – an upgrade that required redesigning the door handles.

There’s now a new off-road Control Centre too in the centre of the dash that’s said to be easier to use, although the 4x4’s (considerable) off-road capability remains unchanged – it’s still able to wade up to 700mm, with a decent 31-degree approach and 35-degree departure angle.

On the AMG G 63 the headline news is the adoption of the Benz’s semi-active AMG Active Ride Control.

Replacing traditional anti-roll bars, the flagship G-Class gets active elements within the dampers that also feature interlinked hydraulic connections. The system can cut body lean through corners while allowing greater wheel articulation off-road.

The new system works with advanced electrics that include new Track, Rock and Sand modes, as well as a Traction Pro setting that boosts traction both on-road and in sandy conditions.

Active Balance Control also sees the driver able to manually adjust roll rigidity on the move.

The upgraded G-Class is expected to arrive in Australia in the final quarter of this year, with local pricing and specs still to be announced.

Full details of the all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQG should also be released soon.

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