Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Lexus NX

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 flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust body sides. For 2025, Mercedes introduced subtle styling updates, including a new grille and bumpers, while preserving traditional design elements. The vehicle's character was further emphasized by its hefty doors and latches, which produced a loud clacking noise. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the base G 550 models, which also featured a subtle rear spoiler to reduce noise. The G-Class offered a range of wheel options, with the AMG G 63 models boasting standard 20-inch wheels and optional 22-inch wheels with carbon-fiber trim. Inside, the G-Class exuded opulence with its sci-fi-inspired cabin, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim. The dashboard prominently displayed switches for the three differential locks, while AMG models sported a more dynamic steering wheel.

The 2026 Lexus NX, despite being a few years into its second generation, maintained a fresh appearance with its integrated styling elements, including chunky fenders, LED headlights, and the signature spindle grille. The design team refined the existing recipe, ensuring that key elements like the grille and LED DRLs appeared intentional rather than added for visual impact. For 2026, Lexus offered the NX in various powertrain options, including non-hybrid, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models, with trim levels ranging from base to F Sport Handling. The F Sport Handling grade added adaptive dampers and black 20-inch wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. While Lexus' bold styling didn't deter sales, the base NX 350's interior didn't quite meet luxury expectations, feeling similar to high-end Toyota RAV4 versions. The F Sport Handling model featured sport seats and aluminum pedals, but the NX 350 Luxury grade offered more luxurious features like leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front seats.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lineup included gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models, along with the all-electric G 580 with EQ Technology. The G 550 replaced its previous twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, delivering 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. The AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, producing 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a mild-hybrid system providing an additional 20 hp and 148 lb-ft at lower speeds, paired with nine-speed automatic transmissions and permanent four-wheel drive with locking differentials. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds, with top speeds of 130 mph and 137 mph, respectively. The AMG G 63 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Lexus NX offered various powertrain options, with the NX 350 F Sport featuring a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Despite a respectable 6.6-second zero to 60 mph time, the eight-speed automatic transmission hindered real-world performance. The NX 350h hybrid and NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid models appeared more promising, with the latter boasting 304 hp and a 6-second zero to 60 mph time. However, the F Sport Handling upgrade's adaptive dampers proved too firm, resulting in an uncomfortable ride and unengaging driving experience. The NX struggled to match the performance prowess of its German rivals, with its core strengths lying in comfort and refinement, although wind noise at highway speeds detracted from cabin serenity.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs, offering a tall yet short passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. The upright driving position reflected its utilitarian origins. Cargo space was limited, with 22.6 cubic feet available with the rear seats in place, and a side-hinged tailgate added complexity when loading cargo. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, slightly behind competitors like the Range Rover. Despite its size, the G-Class provided good forward visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2026 Lexus NX offered competitive passenger space but with some compromises. Rear-seat headroom was comparable to rivals, but legroom was slightly less generous. Front-seat legroom was closer to the Audi and Mercedes, while headroom trailed the Acura and Mercedes. The front seats felt constrained, and outward visibility was hindered by the deep dashboard and large mirrors. Cargo space measured 22.7 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded, trailing competitors. The NX's 2,000-pound towing capacity was also below class leaders. However, the vehicle featured large center-console cupholders for added convenience.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It boasted 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 like a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system available.

The 2026 Lexus NX came with a 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen on base and Premium trims, while a 14-inch display was optional on Premium and standard on higher trims. All models featured a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and six USB ports. Additional tech features required data connectivity packages, offering cloud-based navigation, digital key functionality, and emergency assistance. The voice recognition system responded to "Hey Lexus" commands, but had limitations in controlling certain functions. The instrument cluster efficiently presented information, resembling analog displays from the 1990s.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication. Standard driver-assistance features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, park assist, a 360-degree camera system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, safe exit assist, and traffic sign recognition. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes, and new features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centering, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2026 Lexus NX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, offering forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and more. The electronic door handles were integrated with Safe Exit Assist. Additional features included park assist, front cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system. The NX received a 2025 Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, missing the highest award due to an "Acceptable" score in one crash test. The NHTSA had not published ratings for the current-generation NX.