2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2025 Honda Odyssey

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" from 1979. Despite subtle styling updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, including a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the G 550 models. The interior was opulent, with a sci-fi aesthetic featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim. AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels, enhancing the rugged yet luxurious feel of the G-Class.

The 2025 Honda Odyssey, meanwhile, continued its lineage from the 2011 model, with a design that was familiar and functional rather than stylish. The interior was practical, with buttons and knobs that were easy to use, thanks to bright white markings on matte black backgrounds. The Odyssey was available in EX-L, Sport-L, Touring, and Elite trims, with the base EX trim discontinued, raising the entry price. The Elite trim featured a new Smoke Blue Pearl paint and two-tone leather seats, offering a touch of class to the otherwise utilitarian minivan.

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 new turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivering 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 2025 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, generating 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. The Odyssey lacked AWD and hybrid options, unlike some competitors. It achieved an EPA rating of 22 mpg in combined driving, with real-world tests returning slightly lower figures. Despite its focus on practicality, the Odyssey offered a connected driving experience with responsive steering and braking, and nimble handling. It performed well in various driving conditions, including mountain roads and city traffic, providing a comfortable ride for long journeys.

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 only 22.6 cubic feet available with the 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 SUVs.

The 2025 Honda Odyssey excelled in maximizing space, seating eight people and offering up to 140.7 cubic feet of cargo space. The Elite trim featured comfortable power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation. The second-row Magic Slide seats provided flexibility, allowing various configurations for passenger and cargo needs. However, removing these seats to maximize cargo space was cumbersome. The third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, and the Odyssey offered ample storage throughout the cabin, along with features like a conversation mirror and Cabin Talk intercom.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included dual 12.3-inch screens, an off-road menu, and a "Transparent Hood" feature for better visibility. Notable options included a Burmester 3D surround sound system and a rear-seat entertainment system. The MBUX system offered augmented reality navigation and excellent voice recognition, with specific commands for the G-Class.

The 2025 Honda Odyssey received a technology update with a new 7-inch digital driver display and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and smartphone charging. However, the infotainment system's graphics and voice recognition were subpar. The rear-seat entertainment system, featuring Amazon Fire TV technology, was difficult to use, requiring additional cables for full functionality.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication. 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 2025 Honda Odyssey came with Honda Sensing, offering adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. It performed well in NHTSA and IIHS safety tests, except for a new evaluation where it received a "Poor" rating. The Odyssey's safety features generally operated smoothly, though some aspects, like adaptive cruise control, could be improved.