Mercedes-Benz has taken the iconic G-Class into the electric age with the reveal of the 2025 G580 featuring their EQ electric technology. While the boxy, rugged looks remain, this new electric G-Wagen unlocks incredible all-new off-road capabilities thanks to its revolutionary quad-motor drivetrain. Let’s dive into what makes this battery-powered bruiser so special.
A Wolf in Wolf’s Clothing
At first glance, the G580 looks very similar to its gas-powered G550 and AMG G63 siblings. Mercedes intentionally kept the tough, boxy styling intact to retain the unmistakable G-Wagen look. A few subtle aerodynamic tweaks and the lack of an exhaust are the only obvious visual differences.
The biggest change is under the bodywork, where the G580 ditches the traditional body-on-frame construction. Instead, it utilizes a frame that houses a massive 116 kWh battery pack as a stressed structural member. This battery is protected by an ultra-rigid 127 lb underbody armor plate made from an “intelligent mix of materials including carbon.”
Electrified Off-Road Prowess
While it looks similar on the outside, the G580’s electric quad-motor drivetrain gives it true off-road superpowers:
- 859 lb-ft of instantaneous torque from 0 rpm
- Four individual motor/transmission units, one at each wheel
- G-Turn 360° pivot ability by spinning opposite sides reverse
- G-Steering tight turn radius by overdriving outside wheels
- 33.5″ wading depth (can go even deeper than rated)
- De Dion rear axle for outstanding articulation like a live axle
- 2-speed transmission with 2:1 crawler low-range gear
The removal of traditional driveline components like transmissions, driveshafts, and differentials enables incredible off-road geometry and capability. Each wheel can be controlled with extreme precision.
Mercedes put the G580 through grueling tests to ensure it can handle any condition, including:
- Torsional stress combined with rapid temperature swings
- Repeated deep water fording well beyond the 33.5″ rating
- Maximum suspension articulation over rocks and obstacles
On an actual off-road course, the G580 demonstrated its advantages over the gas G-Class:
- Nimble steering in tight situations thanks to G-Steering mode
- Easy pivot turns and 360° rotation using the G-Turn function
- Climbing obstacles a gas G couldn’t thanks to superior torque
Powerful Yet Efficient
Don’t think the electric G580 is a sluggish off-road cruiser though. With a combined 579 hp from its four motors, it can rocket to 60 mph in around 4.5 seconds. Top speed is governed at 112 mph.
When driven efficiently on pavement, the rear motors can decouple for a rear-wheel-drive mode to maximize range. Mercedes estimates around 240 miles of EPA-rated range from the big battery pack.
To rapidly spin up the stationary front motors from 0 to their 14,500 rpm maximum in just 300 milliseconds requires incredible power reserves. But selectively running only the rear motors is still the most efficient strategy when conditions allow.
The G580 targets around 20% better overall efficiency compared to the gas G550 thanks to its electric drivetrain and lower aerodynamic drag.
Luxury You’d Expect
Of course, no modern Mercedes would be complete without premium luxury appointments inside. The G580 Edition One model will start at $168,000 and offer unique interior color and material choices.
For the truly exclusive, the Manufaktur customization program provides an eye-watering 20,000 exterior paint options to ensure your G580 stands out from the crowd. After all, what’s the point of going electric if you can’t show off that you’re saving the planet in style?
Mercedes-Benz G580 The Final Verdict
With the 2025 G580, Mercedes has successfully merged the capability, luxury, and legendary off-road heritage of the iconic G-Wagen with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. This new battery-powered brute promises to be the most capable production off-roader ever while delivering instant torque, precise control, and respectable efficiency.
The electric G-Class doesn’t come cheap, but for those who can afford it, the G580 allows you to go”‘gasless” while still conquering the toughest trails in uncompromised Mercedes luxury. It’s the no-compromise off-road EV we’ve been waiting for.
What do you think of the electrified 2025 Mercedes G580? Drop a comment below and let us know!
Mercedes-Benz G580 Specifications
2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ Technology
Vehicle Type: front- and rear-motors, 4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
PRICE (C/D EST)
Base: Edition One, $168,000
POWERTRAIN
Front Motors: 2 permanent-magnet AC
Rear Motors: 2 permanent-magnet AC
Combined Power: 579 hp
Combined Torque: 859 lb-ft
Battery Pack: liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 116.0 kWh
Onboard Charger: 11.0 kW
Peak DC Fast-Charge Rate: 200 kW
Transmissions: 2-speed automatic
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 113.8 in
Length: 182.0 in
Width: 76.0 in
Height: 78.2 in
Curb Weight (C/D est): 6900 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 4.4 sec
100 mph: 9.6 sec
1/4-Mile: 13.1 sec
Top Speed: 112 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST)
Combined: 65–70 MPGe
Range: 230–250 mi