Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Nissan Armada

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 2026 Nissan Armada, while a large SUV, avoided the bus-like appearance typical of its class by incorporating sportier crossover elements. It featured a boxy shape with softer curves on the bumpers and fenders, and imposing double-bracketed running lights. The Armada was more compact compared to American SUVs like the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Tahoe, yet it was finished with a tailored look. The NISMO version added a unique Tokyo street style with red accent lines and a lowered body. Inside, the Armada boasted a red and black theme with microsuede, metal pedal covers, and a NISMO tachometer, offering a level of quality unmatched by most non-luxury SUVs.

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 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 2026 Nissan Armada was powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 425 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. The NISMO variant increased output to 460 hp with premium fuel. The Armada's air suspension, available on select trims, provided excellent body control and a compliant ride. Despite its size, the Armada was easy to handle in tight turns, although the steering could have been more precise. The vehicle's towing capacity was 8,500 pounds, and its fuel economy was estimated at 16 mpg city and 19 mpg highway for 4WD trims.

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 and provided good forward visibility, making it easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2026 Nissan Armada offered seven- or eight-passenger seating, with generous headroom in all rows. The "Zero Gravity" cushioning in the seats reduced fatigue, and the front seats included heating, cooling, and massaging functions. The Armada's cargo capacity was 20.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The vehicle's air suspension allowed for easy access to the cargo area.

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. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were notable MBUX features, and a Burmester 3D surround sound system was standard.

The 2026 Nissan Armada came with dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Klipsch stereo on most trims. The SL trim added Google Maps and Wi-Fi. ProPilot Assist 2.2 was optional on most trims, and a digital rearview mirror was available. The Platinum and Pro-4X trims included a dash cam and NissanConnect services.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA. Standard safety features included 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 Nissan Armada offered standard driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and automatic emergency braking. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Armada included front, side, knee, and curtain airbags, with an additional front far-side airbag on the Platinum Reserve.