2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Buick Enclave

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 updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, including a flat hood and prominent corner lights. The vehicle's robust doors and latches added to its unique character. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the G 550 models. The interior was luxurious, with a sci-fi aesthetic featuring large round vents and ambient lighting. AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Buick Enclave, while sharing its underpinnings with other GM vehicles, offered a distinct personality with graceful exterior lines and an inviting cabin. Its streamlined look was accentuated by a swooping hood and narrow accent lights, while the oversized grille tied it to its smaller siblings. The Enclave's interior featured a classy horizontal dashboard with a modern curved digital display. Materials quality was superior to the Traverse, though some ergonomic issues were noted. The Enclave's cabin was comparable to the Acura MDX, offering a luxurious experience with premium leather upholstery and upgraded ambient lighting in the top Avenir trim.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of gasoline models, including the G 550 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. The AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions 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 model introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Buick Enclave was powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Enclave offered standard FWD with optional AWD. It accelerated to 60 mph in just over 7 seconds, though the transmission response and engine noise were less inspiring. The Enclave prioritized ride quality over handling, with adaptive dampers available in the top Avenir trim. The vehicle's brakes were predictable, and the cabin remained quiet at highway speeds. The Enclave offered a respectable 5,000-pound towing capacity with an optional trailering package.

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 visibility and was easier to park than larger competitors.

The 2026 Buick Enclave featured standard second-row captain's chairs, limiting passenger capacity to seven but providing easier third-row access. The middle-row seats offered ample space for taller passengers, while the third row accommodated adults up to five-foot-ten comfortably. The Enclave's cargo capacity was impressive, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 97.5 cubic feet with seats folded. The Power package added power-folding seatbacks and a hands-free power liftgate. The Enclave's front seats provided ample storage, with a large center armrest bin and a giant tray under the console.

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, an off-road menu, and a "Transparent Hood" feature. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were notable MBUX features. A Burmester 3D surround sound system was standard, with options like a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system available.

The 2026 Buick Enclave boasted a 30-inch curved digital display with a Google Built-in operating system. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The infotainment system was praised for its graphics and response, with physical buttons for climate controls. Voice commands were handled by Amazon Alexa, and the Power package added a head-up display. The Enclave's tech was user-friendly, with thoughtful interfaces.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centering, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2026 Buick Enclave received a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and more. The Power package added a digital rearview mirror and head-up display. GM's SuperCruise allowed for hands-free highway driving on select roads, reducing driver fatigue on long trips.