The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has lengthy occupied a singular area within the automotive world – directly an emblem of luxurious and ruggedness. With its boxy silhouette, outsized grille, and unmistakable presence, the G-Wagen grew to become an icon by sticking to what labored. Now, Mercedes-Benz is attempting to vary that. Enter the G580: the primary all-electric model of the legendary SUV, and a daring try by Mercedes-Benz to convey its most recognizable mannequin into the electrical age with out compromising the essence that made it so coveted within the first place.
From the skin, the G580 nonetheless seems each bit the G-Wagen. Signature parts just like the spherical headlights and squared-off physique stay, providing familiarity with delicate updates. Aerodynamic tweaks to the entrance and hood are barely noticeable except the EV is parked subsequent to its combustion-engine counterpart. Even the entrance grille – now largely ornamental as a result of lowered cooling wants – manages to provide nod to its utilitarian roots, albeit with a barely glossier end. Probably the most seen departure? A rear cargo field the place the spare tire as soon as lived, although consumers can nonetheless go for the standard look.
The design restraint is intentional. Slightly than reinvent the G-Class totally, Mercedes has chosen to evolve it – providing longtime followers a way of continuity, even because the automobile’s internals embrace a totally electrical future. This method could not win over these craving a radical rethink, however for a lot of, preserving the silhouette is the purpose.
Inside, the G580 feels decidedly trendy. The cabin blends ruggedness with refinement, borrowing closely from the model’s “EQ” lineup. Plush but sturdy seating, spacious storage, and a digital dashboard with help for Apple CarPlay and Mercedes’ personal infotainment system convey the G-Wagen firmly into the 2020s. It’s snug, related, and unmistakably premium.
Whereas its off-road potential is undiminished on paper – due to 4 electrical motors, one at every wheel – the G580’s most headline-worthy capabilities will not be about conquering the wilderness. Options like G-Flip, which lets the automobile spin by itself axis, and G-Steer, which aids tight maneuvers at low speeds, counsel a brand new type of versatility. They’re technical marvels that really feel as suited to city parking garages as rocky trails.
On the street, the G580 delivers the moment torque and quiet acceleration EV drivers have come to anticipate, although its weight is tough to disregard. The regenerative braking system, a staple of contemporary EVs, doesn’t fairly allow true one-pedal driving right here, requiring a extra conventional foot-on-the-brake expertise. Nonetheless, as soon as acclimated, the drive is easy and composed.
The principle limitation is the vary. At 239 miles, it sits on the decrease finish of at the moment’s EV spectrum – an anticipated tradeoff for its quad-motor configuration, which sacrifices effectivity for energy and management. It’s a compromise prone to matter extra to spec-sheet readers than the G-Class devoted, for whom each day vary isn’t a priority.
After which there’s the value. Beginning at $161,500, the G580 stays firmly within the realm of the prosperous. However maybe that’s a part of its enduring enchantment: a automobile that, even when electrified, retains its luxurious credentials.
You could find out extra concerning the Mercedes-Benz G580 at mercedes-benz.com.
Images courtesy of Mercedes-Benz.
