The new Mercedes-BenzG 580 is proof that the only constant is change, since the world’s most coveted SUV can now be had with four electric motors—one for each wheel—instead of a gasoline engine. Yet the G Wagon’s elemental box-on-rollers shape stands proud to proclaim that a relic from the 1970s still reigns supreme as an off-roader today. Underneath, the already substantial ladder frame has been reinforced to accommodate the powerful 116 kWh battery. Nearly 10 inches of ground clearance and torque aplenty allow the G 580 to scale a 45-degree incline and ford a depth of almost three feet—true off-road chops that let ambitious owners do more than preen at the Equinox valet. John Graff was quick to call the new G 580 “100 percent a G Wagon. If you already like that, the electricity just makes it a tiny bit better."
All is well inside, too, according to Julio Cantillo, who described the interior as “luxurious, with a great driving position." The suite of amenities includes a 12.3-inch driver display and as much leather from the options list as one wishes to add. Those behind the wheel can choose their acoustic atmosphere, including a subdued Comfort or more aggressive G-Roar sound experience, the latter of which emits a deep bass growl at the start of acceleration. That inauthentic feature was not appreciated by purists including Joshua Greenman, who asked, “How do I turn off the fake engine noise?"
The track may not be the most suitable venue for the G Wagon to strut its three-and-a-half tons of stuff, but James Wilson Jr. took that into account when he observed, “Hasn’t lost that G Wagon ‘wow’ factor. Very comfortable, but think of a spirited turn and the near-7,000-pound curb weight puts you in your place. A technical design masterpiece, it remains an incredibly capable off-roader."
Motors: Four electric with a 116 kWh battery pack
Power: 579 hp
Range: 239 miles
0-60 MPH: 4.6 sec
Top Speed: 112 mph
Base Price: $161,500
As Tested: $192,690
From the article by Viju Mathew and Robert Ross
