The boxiest Benz is getting some big updates for 2025. The Mercedes-Benz G 550 gets a newly electrified powertrain, while both the G 550 and AMG G 63 will have new infotainment systems, new adaptive suspension systems, and some of Benz's latest driver assistants.
A 3.0L turbocharged inline-six replaces the V8 that was under the hood of the G 550 last year. Displacement and cylinder count are down, but output is up. The new engine has electric assist for its turbocharger to help add boost before the turbocharger begins to spool naturally, and it has a 48V starter-generator that adds 20 hp and 148 lb-ft.
The six-cylinder engine makes 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque, well above the 416 hp that last year's V8 made. Less displacement and the 48V mild hybrid system should allow for reduced fuel consumption, though don't expect magic when you're pushing this heavy, box-shaped SUV through the air at high speeds.
A nine-speed automatic is still the only transmission. The G 550 will also still offer low-range gear reduction for rock crawling. It works at speeds of up to 40 km/h.
The G 550 and G 63 get the latest version of the MBUX infotainment software. Shared with the rest of the Benz lineup, in the off-road-focused G, it adds a new off-road cockpit mode that includes trail-friendly goodies like key off-road data (like roll angle) and a new "transparent hood" camera view to look directly in front of the vehicle. The system uses two 12.3-inch screens, one in the centre and one for the dash.
Benz's adaptive damping suspension is now standard on the G 550. Mercedes says the suspension can better compensate when driving over terrain; it is also able to reduce roll on the highway.
The Mercedes-AMG G 63's hand-built 4.0L twin-turbo V8 continues to make 577 hp and 672 lb-ft, with a 48V hybrid assist that adds 20 hp and 148 lb-ft. An AMG-tuned nine-speed automatic is standard and the go-fast G has an AMG all-wheel drive system.
New this year is the AMG Active Ride Control suspension. The system has active roll stabilization that works by hydraulically adjusting the roll bars, along with adaptive damping. It's included in the AMG Offroad Package Pro because disconnecting the anti-roll bars affects on-road handling but also adds wheel articulation when off-road.
Some smaller changes aren't glamorous but should improve the ownership experience. The rearview camera has been moved to the centre of the rear bumper and has a washer nozzle. The G also gets new A-pillar trim and a rear spoiler to improve aerodynamics and wind noise, along with new insulation materials to help keep the cabin quiet.
Newly available driver assistants include active steering assist lane centring, active emergency stop assist that jerks the brakes and seatbelts if it detects the driver is incapacitated, and route-based speed adjustments for bends and intersections. Adaptive cruise control, blind spot assist, and exit warnings are all standard.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G 550 is set to hit dealers in Canada in the second half of 2024. The Mercedes-AMG G 63 will arrive at the end of the year.
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