Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology Edition One 2025 Review

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology electric off-road SUV comes in two variants: the standard G 580 with EQ Technology from $249,900 plus on-road costs (ORCs), and the limited-run Edition One version tested here, from $299,900 plus ORCs.

Standard equipment includes the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system, comprising twin 12.3-inch displays (one for the driver and one for the central infotainment system), voice control, 360-degree camera, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Burmester 3D surround sound system. Also included is the KEYLESS-GO system, power front seats with memory, wireless phone charging, and the Off-Road Cockpit, the latter allowing the driver to access various off-road features and information.

For the Edition One, exclusive exterior and interior details are based on the AMG line and include front and rear blue brake calipers and blue inserts in the exterior protective strips. The 19-inch wheels are upgraded to aerodynamically optimised 20-inch rims in black, while the door handles are also finished in black. The interior is upholstered in Nappa leather in silver pearl/black and includes trim elements in carbon with blue accents along with blue stitching.

The Edition One also includes the newly designed box on the rear door, which looks like a spare-wheel cover but, when opened, reveals the charging cable. The G 580 with EQ Technology Edition One has five exclusive ‘MANUFAKTUR’ paint colours: South Sea Blue Magno, Classic Grey Uni, Opalite White Magno, Opalite White Bright or the classic Obsidian Black Metallic.

Off-road capability is shared across both variants, with Mercedes ensuring it maintains the renowned G-Class reputation for off-road performance in the electric era. The three-speed off-road crawl function acts like cruise control when off-roading, maintaining ideal momentum and control while the driver focuses on navigating the terrain during complex manoeuvres.

The G 580 with EQ Technology can also traverse 45-degree slopes and drive along 35-degree angles. This is on top of the manoeuvres that are unique to the electric powertrain, thanks to its four motors aligned to each wheel and switchable low-range gearing. That includes the G-Turn and G-Steer features (more on those later), along with torque vectoring with virtual differential locks.

The G 580’s four electric motors produce a combined 432kW of power and 1164Nm of torque (2kW and 314Nm more than the V8 AMG G 63). Despite weighing over three tonnes, the G 580 accelerates to 100km/h in just 4.7 seconds.

Mercedes-Benz says the electric G-Class can cover up to 567km from its 116kWh battery (on the more optimistic NEDC test protocol), while the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent of its capacity in as little as 32 minutes on DC fast charging up to 200kW. AC charging is supported up to 11kW.

The G 580 with EQ Technology is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty and an eight-year, 250,000km battery warranty.

The all-electric G 580 brings serious performance and genuine innovation to an already iconic platform. With four electric motors it’s the only current Mercedes capable of powering each wheel independently, unlocking incredible control and precision off-road.

This setup also unlocks clever features like G-Turn (which rotates the vehicle by up to 720 degrees on the spot on unpaved or loose surfaces) and G-Steer (which reduces its turning circle on unpaved or loose surfaces at speeds of up to 25km/h). While they could be seen as party tricks, the application of both functions offers real benefit for serious off-roaders.

Admittedly, being flung around in a circle was initially a little scary, but the vehicle itself stays relatively close to its standing position and the system offers real merit when it comes to reorienting the vehicle. When off-road and in tight confines, it makes a lot of sense.

It’s not just these G-branded functions that make it a serious off-road contender, either. With up to 250mm of ground clearance, an 850mm wading depth (150mm more than the AMG G 63), a 32-degree approach angle, a 30.7-degree departure angle, and the ability to handle a 45-degree incline or descent, this is one truly off-road-ready EV.

Also impressive (and incredibly helpful) is the smart 360-degree camera with transparent bonnet function, which displays a view under the front of the vehicle to help you navigate tricky terrain.

The power delivery is smooth and instantaneous, and despite its hefty weight it accelerates and responds with real urgency. In terms of performance, the G 580 makes a compelling argument to go electric over the AMG – and that’s before you even consider the AMG’s heady $368,400 plus ORCs price!

Lookswise, the G 580 is possibly the most unassuming looking EV out there. No one would ever know just by looking at this boxy icon that it was electric. And with the customisation and packs available, you can get all the looks of the AMG G 63 without the roar of the V8. Which might be better and more economical in the long run.

If you do want to hear some engine noise and exhaust crackle and pop, the G-Roar system has you covered. The aural experience, derived from a sound bar under the bonnet as well as piped through the sound system, delivers an aural experience inspired by the G-Class' combustion engine. This is then matched to the various available driving modes, the system delivering a more subdued sound in Comfort mode and a more powerful sound in Sport mode.

However, I will admit that the G 580 is equally satisfying to drive in silence, allowing the muted sounds of the cabin to take centre stage.

As impressive as the G 580’s straight-line acceleration is, it starts to show its size at higher speeds. Handling becomes less composed, with noticeable front-end wobble as the tyres try to cope with the huge torque being laid down to the road. In corners too, you also get a gentle reminder that you’re piloting a tall, heavy SUV with immense torque.

While the 567km claimed range from its 116kWh battery is roughly on par for something of this weight with a four-wheel drive system, it’s hard not to push this thing for a thrill – which means you quickly chew through the battery.

Mercedes says the G 580 is capable of climbing its fearsome Schöckl mountain test track in Graz, Austria, 14 times before running out of charge. Which, the company tells us, is equivalent to around one-and-a-half days of serious off-roading before it needs to recharge. Compared to the V8-powered G 63, which was subjected to the same torture test, it lasted half a day before needing to refuel. Goes to show how the EV’s energy system can be utilised, and it should dispel any concerns of being stuck out in the bush without a power point. You just have to remember to not floor it on the way there and back.

But the Edition One sits in an unusual space on the automotive landscape. Its hefty price tag may well deter potential owners looking for a more utilitarian G-Wagen, but then again it’s a bargain compared to the AMG G 63. Mind you, for many G-Wagen buyers, the V8 soundtrack remain a big part of the AMG’s overall appeal.

And for all its off-road prowess, there’s the lingering reality that many G 580s will rarely leave the pavement. Despite the incredible engineering concealed within, a large portion of these vehicles will likely be relegated to suburban streets and shopping-centre car parks. And while that’s not a bad thing for those owners, it’s a missed opportunity considering what this electric G-Class is truly capable of.

If you’re looking for a vehicle that blends iconic design, serious off-road capability, and cutting-edge electric technology, the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology is genuinely hard to ignore.

It offers everything that makes the G-Class legendary – a commanding presence, rugged construction, and go-anywhere capability – all while introducing a new level of performance and innovation thanks to its electric drivetrain.

While it forgoes the V8 roar so many owners crave, it makes up for it with power and torque that moves it effortlessly.

And with its quad motor setup, clever features like G-Turn and G-Steer, and its impressive ground clearance, wading depth and geometry, it’s an off-roader’s delight – and a potent reminder of just how far EVs have come and how this technology can be applied.

Will owners of the G 580 with EQ Technology be willing to head bush to explore some of this vehicle’s true potential? I truly hope so.

2025 Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology Edition One at a glance:
Price: $249,900 (plus on-road costs)
Available: Now
Powertrain: Four permanent magnet synchronous motor
Output: 432kW/1164Nm
Transmission: Single-speed reduction gear
Battery: 116kWh lithium-ion
Range: 567km (NEDC)
Energy consumption: 27.7 to 30.4kWh/100km (WLTP)
Safety rating: Not tested

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