2025 Ford Expedition vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" from 1979. Despite continuous updates, the G-Class maintained its distinctive features, such as a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. For 2025, Mercedes introduced subtle styling updates, including a new grille and bumpers, while keeping the traditional design intact. Functional changes included repositioning the rearview camera and adding new A-pillar trim and a rear spoiler to the base G 550 models. The interior was opulent, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, with AMG models offering sportier steering wheels.

The 2025 Ford Expedition showcased a form-over-function design, prioritizing space and practicality. Its slab sides and rectilinear silhouette provided ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room. Despite its utilitarian focus, the Expedition featured stylish elements like horseshoe-shaped DRLs and a bold grille. The profile was simple, with a character line running along the side, and a new split-gate tailgate added functionality. Available in four trims—Active, Platinum, Tremor, and King Ranch—the Expedition offered two lengths, with the MAX version providing more cargo space. The interior was minimalist, with a futuristic design centered around a 24-inch driver information display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models included a mild-hybrid system and a nine-speed automatic transmission with permanent 4WD. The G 550 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG G 63 also featured an AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2025 Ford Expedition came equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. The Tremor trim offered a high-output version with 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Despite its 5,794-pound curb weight, the Expedition excelled in highway driving, providing a comfortable and quiet ride. The ten-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth shifts, and the multi-link rear suspension handled rough terrain well. The Tremor trim improved off-road capabilities with increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and skid plates. However, the Expedition's fuel economy was poor, with 4WD models rated at 15/22/18 mpg.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs. It offered a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. The driving position was upright, reflecting its utilitarian roots. Cargo space was limited, with 22.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and the side-hinged tailgate could complicate loading. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, less than some rivals, but still competitive for a luxury SUV. Its relatively short length and narrow width made parking easier, and the corner lamps aided in maneuvering.

The 2025 Ford Expedition excelled in towing capacity, reaching up to 9,600 pounds. Inside, it offered generous cargo space, with 21.6 cubic feet behind the third row in the standard model, expanding to 36.1 cubic feet in the Expedition MAX. With all seats down, the Expedition provided up to 123.1 cubic feet of space. The interior featured a minimalist design with touch-sensitive controls and a large driver information display. While some may find the lack of physical buttons challenging, the layout was modern and functional.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included dual 12.3-inch screens, creating a continuous display across the dashboard. The off-road menu provided useful information, and the "Transparent Hood" feature aided in navigating obstacles. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition enhanced the driving experience. A Burmester 3D surround sound system was standard, with options for a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2025 Ford Expedition boasted a 24-inch driver information display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen with a Google-based operating system. The Ford Digital Experience included Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, requiring a data plan for full functionality. The Ford Connectivity Package offered a year of complimentary access, with subscription options available. The tech was impressive, but the reliance on a data plan could be a drawback for some buyers.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication. It included standard driver-assistance features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for potential crashes, and new features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centering, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2025 Ford Expedition had not been rated by the NHTSA, and the IIHS ratings were based on a previous-generation model. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Expedition also included Pro-Trailer Hitch Assist and Pro-Trailer Backup Assist. BlueCruise 1.4 was available on select trims, offering hands-free driving capabilities with a subscription.