Mercedes-Benz has officially redefined an icon. The world-famous G-Class, once known for its rugged off-road prowess and luxury appeal, has now entered the era of electrification with the launch of the Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ Technology. It’s still the beloved G-Wagon at heart, but now it delivers zero emissions, instant torque, and state-of-the-art technology.
Launched in 2024 and expected to arrive in India and global markets in 2025, the Mercedes-Benz G580 is not just another electric SUV—it’s a milestone in the luxury off-road segment. Built with a blend of heritage, innovation, and sustainability, the G580 showcases what the future of performance SUVs looks like.
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Mercedes-Benz G-Class: A Legacy Reimagined
The G-Class (also known as the G-Wagon) has been a symbol of off-road dominance and elite luxury since its launch in 1979. Traditionally powered by powerful petrol and diesel engines, it has maintained its boxy design, ladder-frame chassis, and three locking differentials—features that have made it a legend among adventurers and celebrities alike.
Now, with the launch of the G580 Electric, Mercedes has managed to retain the G-Class DNA while replacing the internal combustion engine with a cutting-edge electric powertrain.
What Is the Mercedes-Benz G580?
The G580 with EQ Technology is the first fully electric G-Class. It’s not branded as “EQG” as initially rumored, but Mercedes chose the name G580 to preserve continuity with the rest of the lineup (G500, G63, etc.).
Despite the electric makeover, the G580 remains a body-on-frame SUV and includes the same off-road tech that made the original G-Wagon a beast in extreme conditions.
Design: Iconic, Yet Modern
At first glance, the Mercedes-Benz G580 doesn’t look radically different from the gasoline-powered G-Class—and that’s exactly what Mercedes intended. The familiar boxy shape, upright stance, and aggressive posture are all intact.
Exterior Highlights:
- Closed-off front grille with illuminated Mercedes logo
- LED lighting signature all around
- Optional “G-turn” mode visual indicator (more on this below)
- Aerodynamic improvements despite boxy design
- Optional off-road-focused bumpers and skid plates
- Special wheel designs to reduce drag
- Rear-mounted “spare tire” box that hides the EV charger
The G580 maintains the legendary silhouette but integrates modern touches that subtly signal its electric nature.
Interior: Luxury and Tech in Harmony
Inside, the G580 offers a cabin that combines classic G-Class ruggedness with next-generation digital features and premium materials.
Interior Features:
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 12.3-inch MBUX infotainment touchscreen
- MBUX Off-Road Mode with real-time terrain data
- Nappa leather upholstery
- Optional wood or carbon fiber trims
- Burmester surround sound system
- Heated and ventilated seats with massage function
- Augmented reality navigation
While the layout feels familiar, the digital interfaces and advanced comfort features reflect Mercedes’ latest luxury standards.
Powertrain: Electric Power Meets Off-Road Capability
The G580 is powered by a quad-motor setup—yes, one motor for each wheel. This allows precise torque vectoring, advanced off-road maneuverability, and incredible responsiveness.
Powertrain Specs:
- Motors: 4 electric motors (one per wheel)
- Total Output: 579 hp
- Torque: 1,164 Nm
- Battery: 116 kWh usable capacity (Lithium-ion)
- Platform: Modified ladder-frame chassis
- Range: Up to 473 km (WLTP)
- 0-100 km/h: 4.7 seconds
- Top Speed: Electronically limited to 180 km/h
- Charging: 200 kW DC fast charging support (10-80% in 32 minutes)
This powertrain makes the G580 faster than many sports cars while offering the kind of control that hardcore off-roaders dream about.
Off-Road Technology: Electric Power with Serious Grit
Mercedes-Benz didn’t just slap an electric drivetrain into the G-Class—they engineered it to conquer every terrain, just like its predecessors.
G580 Off-Road Features:
- Four individually controlled motors for real-time torque distribution
- “G-Turn” mode: Allows the vehicle to spin 360° in place on loose surfaces
- “G-Steering”: Allows tight turns using differential torque
- Low-range gear simulation via software
- Water wading depth: Up to 850 mm
- Ground clearance: 250 mm
- Approach angle: 32° | Departure angle: 35° | Breakover angle: 20°
- Virtual Differential Locks for extreme terrain
Thanks to its independent motor control, the G580 can even deliver traction when only one wheel has grip.
Driving Modes and Performance
The G580 comes with several driving modes to suit different driving environments:
- Comfort – For daily driving and city use
- Sport – Sharper throttle response and tighter steering
- Individual – Custom settings
- Trail – Optimized for off-road trails
- Rock – For extreme conditions like boulders and uneven rocks
- Sand – Perfect for dunes and deserts
- Crawl – Slow, controlled movement for technical terrains
These modes adjust power delivery, suspension settings, braking behavior, and virtual differential locks automatically.
Battery and Charging
The G580 uses a 116 kWh battery with high energy density, protected in a special underbody housing made of carbon and Kevlar for off-road durability.
Charging Capabilities:
- DC Fast Charging (200 kW): 10–80% in 32 minutes
- AC Home Charging (11 kW): Full charge overnight (approx. 11–12 hours)
- Charging Port Location: Hidden in the rear “spare tire” box
- Pre-conditioning: For optimized fast charging during cold or hot weather
Mercedes-Benz also offers charging plans and integration with Mercedes me Charge, giving access to 1,000,000+ chargers worldwide.
Range and Efficiency
Thanks to regenerative braking and smart energy management, the G580 offers a real-world range of 420–470 km depending on terrain and driving habits.
While the shape of the G-Wagon isn’t the most aerodynamic, software optimization and smart thermal management help maintain competitive range for such a powerful and heavy SUV.
Safety and Driver Assistance
As a modern Mercedes, the G580 is packed with advanced driver assistance and safety features.
Safety Tech Includes:
- Active Brake Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go
- Lane Keep Assist
- Surround View Camera with Off-Road Mode
- Crosswind Assist
- Pre-Safe Collision System
- Off-road sensors with virtual co-driver assistance
The G580 offers Level 2 autonomous capabilities, allowing for semi-automated driving on highways and in traffic jams.
Mercedes-Benz G580 vs G63 AMG: Key Differences
1. Engine:
- G580 (Electric): Equipped with 4 independent electric motors (one per wheel)
- G63 AMG (Petrol): 4.0L V8 Bi-Turbo petrol engine
2. Power Output:
- G580: 579 horsepower
- G63 AMG: 577 horsepower
3. Torque:
- G580: 1164 Nm of torque
- G63 AMG: 850 Nm of torque
4. Acceleration (0–100 km/h):
- G580: 4.7 seconds
- G63 AMG: 4.5 seconds
5. Driving Range:
- G580: Approx. 470 km (WLTP cycle)
- G63 AMG: Approx. 650 km (petrol driving range)
6. Off-Road Precision:
- G580: Superior, thanks to independent motor control at each wheel
- G63 AMG: Mechanical 4WD system with differential locks
7. Emissions:
- G580: Zero emissions (fully electric)
- G63 AMG: High CO₂ emissions (conventional internal combustion engine)
8. Sound Experience:
- G580: Synthesized EV sound for a futuristic feel
- G63 AMG: Authentic AMG V8 exhaust note
Price and Availability
Global Price Estimate:
- Europe: €142,000+
- USA: $150,000+
- India (Expected): ₹2.50 Crore to ₹3.00 Crore (ex-showroom)
India Launch:
While Mercedes has not confirmed the exact India launch date, the G580 is expected in mid-2025. Bookings may open in early 2025 via Mercedes-Benz dealerships and online portals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fully electric with impressive performance
- Maintains classic G-Class design and off-road capability
- Advanced off-road software and G-Turn feature
- Luxury interior with cutting-edge tech
- Zero emissions and high-range battery
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Heavy weight affects agility
- Boxy shape limits aerodynamic efficiency
- Limited charging infrastructure in remote areas (India-specific)
Final Verdict: Is the Mercedes-Benz G580 Worth It?
If you’re looking for a luxury electric SUV that offers true off-road ability, high-end comfort, and iconic status, the Mercedes-Benz G580 is unmatched. It’s not just another electric vehicle—it’s a bold evolution of one of the most legendary SUVs ever made.
With the perfect balance of tradition and innovation, the G580 proves that going electric doesn’t mean giving up character, performance, or personality.