2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Goes Mild Hybrid and Updates Styling (2024)

• The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G550 and Mercedes-AMG G63 add integrated starter generator 48-volt mild hybrid systems.
  
• Mercedes updates the G-Class’s styling with revised bumpers, updated A-Pillar trim, and more.
• The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G550 and Mercedes-AMG G63 will go on sale later this year.

It might be hard to see, but the folks at Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG are updating the legendary G-Class for 2025. Both variants are upgraded to bring them into the future and make the G-Class even more livable. For ‘25 Mercedes is adding mild hybrid powertrains to both variants, updating the styling, and adding some extra tech.

If you pop the hood of the ‘25 G550, you’re not going to find a turbocharged 4.0-liter anymore. Taking its place is a 3.0-liter I6 that works with the mild hybrid system to make 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque.

That travels through a nine-speed automatic transmission and into the all-wheel-drive system. For those curious, that’s more peak power, but lower peak torque than the outgoing turbocharged 4.0-liter V8.

If you want the turbocharged V8, you’ll now have to step up to the G63. That’s right, the AMG-variant is sticking with eight cylinders but is adding a mild-hybrid Integrated starter generator.

Mercedes says this V8 will make 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, which is unchanged from the current AMG G63 models. The mild hybrid system should make the G63 feel quicker at low engine speeds before the turbochargers can build boost.

Just like the G550, this AMG model uses a nine-speed automatic. Mercedes says this combination is good for a 4.2-second sprint to 60 mph and will run out of steam thanks to electronic governors at 137 mph. That’s 0.3 seconds faster than the current G63.

Of course, there’s more to the G-Wagen than just its powerplants. The team at Mercedes updated the G-Class’s styling, with revised bumpers front and rear, and a new grille. There’s also new A-pillar trim and a lip spoiler on the roof to better cheat the wind. These changes head to both variants of the G-Class and should help make the cabin a little quieter.

Inside the G-Class, customers are going to get some added tech. The ‘25 G550 and G63 both get the MBUX media system, which relays information to the occupants through a 12.3-inch media screen. Ahead of the driver, you’ll find a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.

Of course, there are also fun features like climate-controlled cupholders, a Burmester 3D surround-sound system, and the aptly named MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment system. The ‘25 G-Class will also net you the latest Mercedes steering wheels. The AMG steering wheel is also updated.

If you plan on taking this off Rodeo Drive and into the dirt, you’ll still find your differential locker controls mounted to the dashboard. In fact, Mercedes is leaning into the off-road tech with the G-Class and is offering what it calls the Offroad co*ckpit.

This special display gives you important information about your G-Class while you’re off-road such as a compass, altitude, steering angle, and vehicle positioning. You can also see through the hood with a camera array with a system Mercedes calls Invisible Hood.

The suspension’s fundamental design carries over, with a stick axle at the rear and an independent suspension at the front. Though, Mercedes did some massaging. Adaptive damping is standard, and Mercedes says these dampers can better adjust to road conditions than the outgoing dampers.

Roll and pitch adjustments also make their way to the active dampers. All of this rolls on a set of standard 19-inch wheels, though 18-inch and 20-inch options are available.

Joining the suspension is the AMG Active Ride Control system. This hydraulic system is part of the optional AMG Off-road Package Pro and replaces the traditional stabilizer bars with hydraulically assisted dampers.

These dampers still provide active damping, like the standard units, but take it a level further to better reduce roll and pitch. Mercedes says this system increases wheel articulation to help off-road.

All in all, this isn’t exactly a huge departure from the G-Class of today, but it does offer some quality-of-life increases that the clientele might enjoy.

Though, G550 buyers might be disappointed with the lack of a V8 growl on startup: Fortunately, they can just move up to the G63. Important details like price and fuel economy figures will be available closer to the new G-Wagen’s launch, which, according to Mercedes, will be in the second half of 2024. Current base price for a ‘24 G550 is $144,150, while the current G63 is $180,150, with destination.

Do you think G550 buyers care about the loss of the V8? Tell us your thoughts below.