Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Ford Bronco Sport

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "Geländewagen" from 1979. Despite subtle styling 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 character was further emphasized by its robust doors and latches, which produced a distinctive clacking noise. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the G 550 models. The interior was luxurious, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, with AMG models offering sportier steering wheels.

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport, sharing its platform with the Ford Escape, embraced a rugged design distinct from its sibling. Its rectangular grille and square silhouette gave it a cute yet authentic Bronco appearance. While the styling remained largely unchanged, new off-road packages like the Black Diamond and Sasquatch added modular bumpers and underbody protection. The interior, though less distinctive, was functional with new grab handles and auxiliary switches. The Bronco Sport's practicality was enhanced by its spacious cabin, offering more headroom than competitors, and a competitive cargo capacity.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, 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 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport continued with its previous powertrain options. Most trims featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower, while the Badlands model had a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 hp. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The Bronco Sport excelled in off-road capabilities, offering features like Trail Control and a new one-pedal feature. The Sasquatch Package added off-road suspension and steel protection, while G.O.A.T. modes provided versatility for various terrains. Despite its off-road focus, the Bronco Sport remained composed and comfortable on-road.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, though 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 with rear seats in place. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, slightly less than some rivals. Despite its size, the G-Class offered good visibility and was easier to park than larger competitors.

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport balanced off-road capability with practicality. It provided more headroom than competitors and competitive cargo space, with up to 65.2 cubic feet available. The interior featured convenient storage solutions, including a device tray with USB ports. The Bronco Sport's towing capacity ranged from 2,200 to 2,700 pounds, depending on the engine. It offered a comfortable driving experience, with features like a rotary shifter and wireless charging pad enhancing convenience.

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, 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 user experience. A Burmester 3D surround sound system was standard, with options like a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system available.

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport upgraded to the Sync 4 infotainment system, featuring a 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the system offered a split-screen setup for convenience. An available 360-degree camera system aided both safety and off-road driving, with cameras remaining active in off-road modes. The system's graphics and functionality were a significant improvement over the previous version.

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

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in frontal and side crash tests. The IIHS gave it "Good" ratings in several tests and an "Acceptable" rating in the updated side-impact test. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Reverse automatic emergency braking and traffic sign recognition were available on higher trims.