Drive Time – 2025 G580 w/EQ Technology

There are those occasions when curious thoughts infiltrate our minds. Like the notion of throwing down on a six-figure, four-wheel-drive tank that is old school, heavy, tall, ominous and seemingly impermeable. Truth is, there’s indeed a worthy ride that’s also so deliciously eccentric, and I dare you not to quickly fall in love. A thoroughly unique road warrior that turns heads and elicits smiles from young and old alike. That is the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ Technology; the inevitable all-electric option to its petrol-loving sibling. We’ll call it the G580 for brevity. 

The Geländewagen (“cross country vehicle”) was hatched for the military 38 years ago (hitting U.S. shores in 2002). Over time, Mercedes-Benz “civilized” it by adding the brand’s customary luxury appointments. But make no mistake, this is a bona fide off-road brute that’s surely immune to anything ol’ Mother Nature throws its way.

It’s also a big hit with the young and “seasoned” crowd, as I was accosted at parking lots and gas stations by curious fans vaulting this 60-something to “Baller” status! One can see why countless celebs house one in their expansive garages.

Yes, the G580 isn’t cheap, but simply an iconic ride that elicits grins while swallowing up terrain, mountains or possibly buildings, all while doing so with electricity. The G580 is really a timeless piece – with the updated power source and tech to be the perfect companion at the ranch or lake home as a go-anywhere, sure-footed lavish beast of burden. The G exists simply because its fans adore it.

SKIN

The exterior is an attention-grabbing tall, boxy silhouette full of right angles. It proudly warns to “get out of my way.” The doors are heavy and close with a loud, reassuring thunk! Opening doors require you to push a button instead of pulling the handle – an old-school touch.

The tester’s luscious Moonlight White Metallic paint ($1,700 option) attracted admiring reactions. It presents a cool trunk door that swings open rather than up and down. The charging port is located on the rear passenger side. The G580 will charge from 10 to 80 percent in 32 minutes using a fast charger. 

Note: the “frunk” has no storage, and there’s no underfloor space in the rear. 

Another nice bonus is you can see the front of the hood while driving. That’s hugely reassuring when navigating a large ride in tight parking spaces. And due to the high sitting position, you can easily find open spots. The 360-degree camera provides confidence when parking.

Twenty-inch Twin 5-Spoke Black Wheels fit nicely in the large wheel wells and are surprisingly smooth when cruising on the highway. As with all EVs, no rear exhausts are necessary. 

PERFORMANCE

One might think this is a heavy machine, and at 6,750 lbs, it’s not light. The electric four-motor power provides stellar acceleration (579hp, 859 lb.-ft torque) and moves the G580’s 0-60 in a blurring 4.1 seconds. Each wheel is mated with its own motor. Full-time four-wheel-drive capability outmaneuvers its gas sibling while literally working around anything. All this gives the G580 a confident ride on the highway or tracking in mud, snow, water, or heck, maybe even quicksand.

For most drivers, the paved surfaces are much smoother than you’d expect, as I hardly detected much road noise. You can happily rest your elbow on the low windowsill without dislocating your shoulder (old school again!). Given its high profile, you wouldn’t want to barrel into turns, but, honestly, it’s not built to. Yet, the automatic side bolstering hugs confidently in the turns. 

A cool pet trick is the 360-degree G-Turn spinner, where you pull on the paddle shifter for turning direction before hitting the accelerator to literally turn in place. I recommend showing off on dirt to save the tires.

The steering is capable, and large brake calipers stop the substantial ride in short order. All this power and heft allow for a quoted 233-mile range (plan on roughly 200 miles), making this burly off-roader a perfect addition to a large ranch or commuting to the store. 

CABIN

The cocoon surrounds you in contrasting splendor against the tank-like exterior. High-end materials are abundant, the layout is superb, akin to its Mercedes-Benz siblings. The attractive Silver Pearl/Black Nappa perforated leather seats are supportive, and the lofty driver’s seat offers a feeling of riding above the fray. 

The heated and cooled front is comfortable, and rear seats also warm the buns in quick fashion. My tester’s Edition 1 package included the superbly clear Burmester 3D Surround System, perfectly matched with the cabin acoustics.

The thick leather heated steering wheel fits perfectly with the masculine motif. 

Cargo space is an abundant 70.3 cu.-ft. with the rear seats folded (swallowing golf bags) and 19.6 cu.ft. behind the rear seats to house the charging cables. Those back seats are theatre-esque as passengers sit higher than the front inhabitants. All my peeps loved the increased height for visibility.

The Edition 1 package ($18,250) also brings the contrasting seats that massage, carbon-fiber trim, AMG Line and Night packages, 20-inch AMG wheels in black, high-gloss black exterior trim, moonroof, blue brake calipers, the Burmester sound system and a black panel radiator grille. 

In addition, you’ll enjoy a 9.8-inch clearance, up to 35-degree lateral stability, wading through 33.5 inches of water and transparent hood to watch for obstacles underneath. Seriously, what’s not to love?

TECH TOYS

Mind-boggling technology and safety measures are at your disposal. A plethora of presets across satellite and terrestrial radio formats toggle seamlessly. Bluetooth voice transmission is impressive, as well.

You’ll appreciate the latest reassuring plethora of safety features. The G580 received the maximum five-star rating in Europe (the U.S. version should receive the same rating when announced). 

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ Technology is a terrific blend of impervious protector, rugged swagger, off-road warrior, luxury appointments and a reassured feeling you could survive Armageddon. It’s the perfect vehicle to cruise around the ranch or making a statement rolling up to the country club valet.

SCORECARD

Golf Bags: A bunch with the rear seats folded

Curbside Appeal: Gorgeous mix of off-road warrior and urbanite pizazz 

0-60: 4.1 seconds

Gas Mileage: Estimate 233-mile range 

Must-Haves: Edition 1 package 

Warranty: 4-year/50,000 miles

Base Price: $161,500

Price as Tested: $182,650

Who Buys It? Those desiring robust presence and upscale refinement 

Finish Line: A green version of the gas-powered G-Wagon

To test-drive the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 w/EQ Technology at Mercedes-Benz of Plano, contact Lance Carter at lance@mbplano.com