2025 Mercedes-Benz G580: The Electric G-Wagen
The electric G-wagen revolutionizes off-roading with its unique four-motor, four-transmission system, offering unparalleled capabilities.
The 2025 G580, the all-electric variant of the iconic G-Wagen, retains the classic design while introducing cutting-edge technology. Eschewing the EQ branding, Mercedes opts for the familiar alphanumeric designation. With no gas-powered G580, the EV version embraces this concise identifier.
Worth A Look
Visually, the G580 closely resembles its combustion-engine counterparts, the G550 and AMG G63. Subtle aerodynamic enhancements are present, but the most noticeable difference is the rear cargo bin, typically housing the spare tire, now used for the charging cable. However, a spare tire can be specified, making it even harder to distinguish from the traditional models.
The exterior of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580, showcasing its classic design with subtle EV enhancements.
Innovative Battery and Chassis Design
The G580 maintains its body-on-frame construction, utilizing the same body mounting points as its gas-powered predecessors. However, the frame is significantly modified to accommodate a 116.0-kWh battery pack between the rails. This battery pack serves as a stressed member, reinforcing torsional rigidity, with strategically spaced cells and structural reinforcements tied to the frame. The G580 boasts an EPA-estimated range of 239 miles on a single charge.
Adding to the vehicle’s robustness is a 127-pound underbody armor plate, constructed from a carbon-based material, protecting critical components between the axles. This armor is designed to withstand severe rock-crawling, ensuring the battery pack remains safe from damage.
Mercedes rigorously tested the battery pack under combined torsional stress and rapid temperature changes, simulating real-world off-roading conditions. These tests included scenarios involving prolonged articulation, motor and battery heating, and sudden immersion in cold water, ensuring the G580’s reliability and watertight seals.
Enhanced Off-Road Capabilities
The G580’s wading depth is rated at 33.5 inches, surpassing the gas models by 5.9 inches. Mercedes acknowledges that the electric G can handle even deeper water, thanks to its thoroughly waterproofed powertrain. The current limitation is the HVAC air intake, suggesting potential for even greater water fording capabilities in future iterations.
During a trail drive in France, the G580 demonstrated its ability to handle challenging conditions, including rock climbs, water fording, and mud, all intensified by relentless rain. The electric G proved to be a superior off-roader compared to the G550.
Quad-Motor System and G-Turn Feature
While the G550 relies on locking front, center, and rear differentials, the 579-hp quad-motor G580 eliminates the need for differentials altogether. The traditional diff-lock buttons are replaced with controls for the independent torque distribution at each wheel. The center button engages low range, which, combined with 859 pound-feet of torque at 0 rpm, enhances rock-crawling capabilities and minimizes motor heat buildup. This setup also allows the G580 to claim four transmissions.
The G580 features a G-turn function, utilizing the motors on either side of the car to spin it on its axis. By engaging G-turn, pulling the shift paddle in the desired direction, and flooring the accelerator while keeping the wheel straight, the G580 can perform two full rotations, making tight maneuvers effortless.
The electric G incorporates a De Dion rear end, similar to the Sprinter, to mimic the live rear axle articulation of gas-powered models. This design minimizes unsprung weight while retaining the articulation prized by off-road enthusiasts. The G580 achieved a ramp travel index score of 549, surpassing the 2023 G550 Professional’s score of 511.
The interior of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580, blending luxury with advanced technology.
On-Road Performance and Handling
The G580 forgoes air springs, maintaining a fixed ride height while delivering a comfortable and commanding ride. It achieves a 0.80-g skidpad performance on summer tires, outperforming gas-powered G-Wagens. Despite its 6908-pound curb weight, the G580 is the handling champ of the lineup, thanks to its summer tires.
The G580’s electronically limited top speed is 112 mph, with motors reaching 14,500 rpm. It employs rear-drive mode when possible to enhance efficiency, necessitating rapid motor speed matching when engaging the front motors. The G580’s motors can spin up from 0 to 14,500 rpm in just 300 milliseconds.
In performance tests, the G580 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and completes the quarter-mile in 12.6 seconds at 108 mph. It also exhibits superior braking performance, stopping from 70 mph in 162 feet.
Detailed view of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580’s luxurious interior features.
Pricing and Customization
The initial G580 will be the Edition One, priced at $180,900. The Manufaktur customization program offers an extensive selection of exterior colors and interior options.
A side view of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580, highlighting its iconic silhouette and rugged design.
The Evolution of the G-Wagen
Since its debut in 1979, the G-Wagen has evolved from a utilitarian four-by-four into a luxury icon. The electric G not only meets but exceeds these expectations, expanding its capabilities with innovative technology. For example, the G-steering’s radius-carving wizardry may eventually find its way into gas models as well.
The advanced dashboard and control system of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580.
The spacious and comfortable rear seating of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580.
The striking front view of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580, showcasing its iconic design and modern features.
