2025 Mercedes-Benz G580: First Electric G-Wagon, Quad Motors Now

Mercedes-Benz has introduced the first fully electric G-Class with the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580, a quad-motor G Wagon that preserves the model's signature presence while swapping its V-engines for an electrified powertrain. Built on a modified body-on-frame chassis, the G580 pairs a 116 kWh battery with four independent wheel motors to deliver brisk performance, serious on- and off-road capability, and a distinctly G-Class character, but with compromises in cargo space, towing, and efficiency.

2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 Specifications

Model: 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 (electric)
Battery: 116 kWh pack
Power: 579 hp and 859 lb-ft (quad motor)
0–60 mph: Mercedes claims 4.6 s (real-world testing recorded 4.16 s).
EPA range: 239 miles (manufacturer testing showed 242–253 miles at full charge; typical week of testing ≈ 220 miles real world).
Charging: Up to 200 kW DC fast charging (10–80% ≈ ~32 minutes); 9.6 kW onboard AC charger (~13 hours 0–100% at Level 2).
Curb weight: Just under 7,000 lb (≈ 1,000+ lb heavier than gas counterparts).
Towing: Not rated for towing.
Starting price: $161,500 (approx. $13,000 above the G550); tested example ≈ $182,000 with options.

Overview, Electric muscle in a familiar silhouette

Mercedes' second-generation, body-on-frame G-Class underwent a comprehensive modernization six years ago; the 2025 G580 marks the first time the iconic box carries an all-electric drivetrain. Visually the EV remains unmistakably a G Wagon, round headlamps, upright windshield and squared silhouette, but subtle cues (blacked-out trim, smoothed fascia, and an illuminated grille outline) identify the G580 as the battery-powered variant.

The G580 sits between the G550 and the AMG top-end trim in Mercedes' lineup. Rather than adopting a bespoke EV skateboard, Mercedes modified the G's frame to house the large battery pack, preserving much of the G-Class' rugged geometry and familiar hardware.

Powertrain and performance, Quad motors, two-speed gearboxes

The headline tech is a rare quad-motor arrangement: an independent motor at each wheel. Combined output is 579 horsepower and 859 lb-ft of torque, driven through a unique architecture that places a two-speed automatic gearbox on each motor. That configuration yields surprising on-road punch for a nearly 7,000-lb vehicle; the tester recorded a consistent 4.16-4.19 second 0–60 mph time in Sport mode, beating Mercedes' official 4.6-second claim.

Drive feel blends G-Class heft with modern composure: lower center of gravity from the floor-mounted battery improves stability and body control, while adaptive dampers softening ride quality on 20-inch aero wheels. Steering is electric rack-and-pinion (a welcome modernization), and driver aids, adaptive cruise, AEB, lane-keeping, are standard.

Mercedes adds synthesized "G-roar" driving tones to mimic the character of V-engines for buyers who miss an internal combustion soundtrack. The G580's sensation is quick and commanding, but the hefty mass still causes some body roll and "wallow" under enthusiastic inputs.

Range, charging and real-world economy

The G580's 116 kWh battery is sizable, but aerodynamics and mass limit efficiency. EPA rating stands at 239 miles; real-world results in mild conditions tended toward ~220 miles during the tester's week. Peak range impressions on the display reached 253 miles, with occasional estimates as high as 265–275 miles depending on conditions and driving style.

Charging accepts up to 200 kW DC fast charge: Mercedes quotes roughly 10–80% in about 32 minutes. The onboard AC charger is modest at 9.6 kW, making home Level-2 charging ~13 hours for a full recharge.

Notably, the G580 is not rated for towing, a departure from the gas-powered G Wagons that tow up to 7,000 lb. Mercedes cites the battery and architecture as reasons for the omission, an important practical limitation for buyers who previously used a G as a tow vehicle.

Exterior and interior, Familiar luxury with modern touches

Exterior styling remains true to the G-Class DNA: short overhangs, flat panels and upright glass. The EV's front bumper is smoothed for aerodynamics and the grille pared back since less cooling is required. The tested car wore a $6,500 non-metallic "Night Blue" paint. Optional features such as spare-wheel carriers and a "night package" alter length and presence.

Inside, the G580 preserves the tactile, high-quality materials and solid "thunk" of G-Class doors. An $8,000 Interior Plus package upgrades Nappa leather, adds diamond quilting, ventilated/heated seats with multi-mode massage, and premium Burmester audio. Mercedes' latest MBUX infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is standard, but the G retains physical toggles and a compact center screen rather than the brand's huge hyperscreen.

Cargo volume is reduced versus the gas model, Mercedes quotes about 34 cu ft, and the rear floor is not flat because of battery packaging, meaning less practical cargo flexibility. Rear legroom felt tighter than the stated figures to the tester, and some buyers may find back-seat entry and egress awkward without grab handles (some options remove or change fitments).

Off-road capability and specialty features

Despite electrification, Mercedes retained several off-road functions: low-range drive mode (accessed via dedicated buttons), trail-turn assist, and a 360° off-road camera system. Water fording depth is increased modestly, around 33.5 inches, compared with the gas G550. The absence of triple mechanical lockers (replaced by electronic drive strategies) and the heavy battery change the vehicle's off-road weight profile, but the G580 still presents genuine capability complemented by modern vehicle controls.

Pricing, availability and buyer considerations

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 carries a starting price around $161,500, approximately $13,000 above the G550 petrol model. AMG variants remain substantially more expensive (often well over $186,000 once options are added). The tested vehicle, with paint, interior plus and other options, totaled roughly $182,000.

Buyers evaluating the G580 should weigh the tradeoffs:
- Pros: Instant torque, modernized driving dynamics, luxury interior upgrades, distinctive G-Class styling with EV refinement.
- Cons: Reduced cargo capacity and no towing rating, heavy curb weight, limited EPA range for the segment, slower onboard AC charging, and a premium price. Traditional G-Class buyers who prize exhaust sound and towing utility may prefer gas or AMG variants.

Verdict, A convincing electric G with caveats

The G580 is the first electric G-Class that genuinely feels like a G, retaining the model's commanding presence, build quality, and off-road repertoire, while delivering unexpectedly quick acceleration and a comfortable ride. Mercedes' quad-motor approach pays dividends in performance and traction. However, the EV compromises, reduced cargo utility, significant extra weight, lack of towing, and middling efficiency, mean the G580 is best understood as a premium lifestyle choice that prioritizes image, on-road refinement and instantaneous performance over pure utility.

For buyers who want an electrified G-Class experience and can accept tradeoffs on cargo and towing, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 represents a compelling, if expensive, step into the EV era for one of the automotive world's most iconic SUVs.