The G 580 doesn’t just rely on gimmicks. Its interior screams opulence, with adjustable air vents, eight seat massage settings, and ambient lighting options that rival a high-end spa. Jasmine Luv’s review captures the vibe: the cabin “smells like money and high car payments,” blending the G-Wagon’s iconic rugged aesthetic with modern electric refinement. Powered by a 116-kWh lithium-ion battery, the G 580 boasts 579 horsepower and 859 pound-feet of torque, sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Its dual-circuit hydraulic braking and independent front suspension ensure it handles both city streets and rocky paths with ease.
Off-Road Prowess, On-Road Concerns
The G-Turn, enabled by the quad-motor setup, is a boon for off-roaders. It mimics the functionality of a low-range gear, using torque vectoring to simulate locking differentials, which optimizes traction on uneven surfaces. Mercedes, however, cautions against using the G-Turn on public roads due to safety risks, and some worry about its environmental impact on delicate off-road trails. Despite its off-road brilliance, the G 580’s 294-mile WLTP range (EPA figures pending) may limit its appeal for long-distance travel, positioning it as a niche choice for urban adventurers and off-road enthusiasts.
A Pricey Proposition
Starting at $162,250 in the U.S., the G 580 carries a hefty price tag that has sparked mixed reactions. While its performance and luxury are undeniable, sales figures tell a different story. Only 1,450 units were sold through April 2025, compared to 9,700 combustion-powered G-Class models, prompting some Mercedes insiders to call it a “commercial failure.” The high cost and a market still warming to electric off-roaders may explain the sluggish demand, though the G-Class lineup as a whole saw an 18% sales increase in early 2025, driven largely by gas-powered variants.
Redefining the G-Wagon Legacy
Mercedes has preserved the G-Wagon’s iconic boxy design, with subtle tweaks like a flat grille and EV-specific styling cues, such as an optional squircle-shaped storage bin replacing the spare tire. The electric model rides on the same ladder-frame chassis as its gas-powered siblings, ensuring the durability that defines the G-Class. Features like a 360-degree camera, transparent hood, and G-Roar—a synthesized V8 sound—add flair while maintaining the brand’s heritage. Yet, the absence of a frunk and a less aerodynamic profile highlight its roots as a converted internal combustion vehicle, not a ground-up EV.
What’s Next for Electric Off-Roaders?
The G 580’s mixed reception underscores the challenges of electrifying a legend. While its off-road capabilities and G-Turn dazzle, the price and range constraints may deter some buyers. Mercedes is reportedly rethinking plans for a smaller “Little G” model, originally slated as EV-only, with combustion options now under consideration to broaden appeal. As the EV market evolves, the G 580 stands as a bold, if polarizing, step toward electrifying rugged luxury, proving that even a classic can spin into the future.
