2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2025 Kia Telluride

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" from 1979. Despite subtle styling updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, including a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the G 550 models. The interior was opulent, with a sci-fi aesthetic featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim. AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels, enhancing the rugged yet luxurious feel of the cabin.

The 2025 Kia Telluride presented a more modern and distinctive design, with five core trim levels ranging from the base LX to the luxurious SX Prestige. The X-Line and X-Pro packages added off-road capabilities and a blacked-out look. The SX Prestige X-Pro model featured upscale details like Terracotta Nappa leather and a dual-screen display. The interior was thoughtfully designed, with heated and ventilated seats in both the front and second rows, ample storage solutions, and a lumbar massage function for the driver. The Telluride's design managed to stand out in a crowded SUV market, offering a blend of style and practicality.

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 new turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet 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 zero to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG G 63 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2025 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine generating 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. The Telluride offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart driving modes, with AWD models adding a Snow mode. Despite competitors switching to turbocharged four-cylinders, the Telluride's V6 provided smooth and ample power, achieving 20.2 mpg over a long road trip. The X-Pro package enhanced off-road capabilities with all-terrain tires and increased towing capacity, though it sacrificed some on-road grip.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs, offering a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its traditional design impacted cargo space, with 22.6 cubic feet available behind the rear seats. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, slightly less than some rivals. Despite its size, the G-Class provided good forward visibility and was easier to park than larger competitors.

The 2025 Kia Telluride excelled in interior space and thoughtful design. The SX Prestige model featured heated and ventilated seats in both the front and second rows, with ample storage solutions and charging ports. The third-row seat, when folded, expanded cargo space to 46 cubic feet, and with the second row down, it offered 87 cubic feet. The Telluride's interior was comfortable and accommodating, with features like a lumbar massage function and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the travel experience.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included dual 12.3-inch screens, an off-road menu, and a "Transparent Hood" feature for low-angle visibility. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were notable MBUX features, along with a Burmester 3D surround sound system. Optional tech included a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2025 Kia Telluride offered a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system under a single glass panel. A 10-inch head-up display complemented these screens, providing blind-spot alerts. However, the Telluride lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the voice recognition system was basic. Despite these limitations, the Harman Kardon audio system delivered impressive sound quality, and the infotainment system was user-friendly.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class came with standard driver-assistance features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It also included the Pre-Safe system, which prepared the vehicle for an imminent crash. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centering, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2025 Kia Telluride boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features under the Drive Wise branding. Standard equipment included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Telluride also featured Highway Driving Assist, Blind Spot View Monitor, and evasive steering assist. It earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.