Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Hyundai Ioniq 5

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 robust doors and latches added to its unique character, while functional changes like a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim enhanced its practicality. The interior was opulent, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, with AMG models offering sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 combined a 1980s hatchback aesthetic with modern crossover SUV elements, resulting in a unique and attractive design. Its angular lines and triangular profile, along with dark cladding, gave it a crossover flavor. The front featured a visor slit with rectangular headlights, while the rear had an integrated spoiler and darkened panels. The XRT model added pixel-patterned cladding and a more purposeful look. Inside, the Ioniq 5 was utilitarian yet tech-savvy, with standard cloth upholstery and synthetic leather in higher trims. The tech included dual 12.3-inch screens and touch controls, creating a modern, albeit sterile, cabin environment.

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 with 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, producing 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models included a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions 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 model also boasted an AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a single-motor RWD powertrain with 168 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque in the base trim, or 220 hp in other trims. A dual-motor AWD powertrain increased output to 320 hp and 446 lb-ft, while the Ioniq 5 N performance model delivered up to 641 hp and 568 lb-ft. The dual-motor models provided robust power, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds. The Ioniq 5 featured five regenerative braking settings and a smooth ride, though it exhibited some lean in corners. The XRT model offered off-road capabilities with increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and terrain modes for various conditions.

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 with the rear seats up. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds and provided a commanding view of the road, with reasonable visibility and manageable parking dimensions.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured spacious front seats with power adjustments and heated options. The rear seat offered 39.4 inches of legroom, accommodating two adults comfortably. Cargo space was 26.3 cubic feet with the rear seats up, expanding to 58.5 cubic feet with them folded. The Ioniq 5's cargo capacity was slightly smaller than average for compact crossovers, but it included a small front trunk for additional storage.

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

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included a Wi-Fi hotspot, MyHyundai app, and Hyundai Pay for charging stations. Higher trims offered a digital key and Bose audio system. The infotainment screen was user-friendly, with separate climate controls and voice command functionality.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA. It included standard driver-assistance features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, 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 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 came with standard safety features such as blind-spot monitors, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Options included a surround-view camera system and Highway Driving Assist 2. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable. The lane-keep assist and blind-spot camera system were particularly noteworthy.