2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E

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, which also offered a range of wheel options. The interior was luxurious, featuring Mercedes' design aesthetic with ambient lighting and metallic trim, while AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E stood out with its Mustang-inspired design, featuring a familiar grille insert and squinting headlights. Its sculpted sides and SUV-coupe-like profile, complete with a sloped roofline, gave it a sporty appearance. The rear showcased a roof spoiler and Mustang's signature sequential taillights. The Mach-E offered various trims, including the Rally trim with rally-inspired features. Inside, the Mach-E provided a blend of synthetic leather and soft-touch materials, with sportier seats in the GT and Rally trims. Ambient lighting added to the interior's appeal, while the Mach-E's design cleverly balanced sporty aesthetics with practical functionality.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the G 550 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. The AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions with permanent four-wheel drive. 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 G 63 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E offered diverse powertrain options, starting with a single-motor RWD setup producing 264 horsepower and a range of 260 miles. Dual-motor configurations increased power to 325-370 hp, with varying ranges. The Mach-E GT delivered 480 hp and a 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds, while the Rally trim offered similar performance with a slightly reduced range. The Mach-E's electric motors provided immediate torque, resulting in quick acceleration. Drivers could choose from different sound modes, and the vehicle offered one-pedal driving for regenerative braking. The Mach-E's handling was agile, with a rear-drive bias and electronic torque vectoring enhancing its dynamics.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not as spacious as some luxury SUVs, offered a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom. Its compact dimensions made it easier to maneuver and park compared to larger rivals. Cargo space was limited, with 22.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and the side-hinged tailgate added complexity when loading. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, and its design provided good visibility and a commanding view of the road.

The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E featured a longer wheelbase, providing a spacious interior for a compact or midsize crossover. It offered good headroom and legroom in both rows, though the rear seat was a bit tight for three passengers. The Mach-E's cargo space was practical, with 29.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. An optional front trunk added secure storage. The Mach-E's design balanced sporty looks with functional interior space.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It had 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 were notable MBUX features. A Burmester 3D surround sound system was standard, with options like a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system available.

The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E boasted a 15.5-inch center touchscreen with Sync 4A software, though it was starting to show its age. A 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster provided essential information. The Mach-E offered a year of Ford Connectivity, including a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot and real-time navigation. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while options included a wireless charging pad and a B&O audio system. The touchscreen was user-friendly, and over-the-air updates kept it current.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA, but it came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. 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 Ford Mustang Mach-E came with Ford's Co-Pilot 360 Assist+ suite, offering features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more. BlueCruise, a Level 2 driver-assistance system, was standard for 90 days and available for longer periods at an additional cost. The Mach-E performed well in crash tests, earning a Top Safety Pick award from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA.