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The electric version of the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen has landed in Australia with quad-motors, over a kilonewton of torque and a price that undercuts the V8 G63 by a whole C-Class.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 brings fully-electric power to the iconic G-Wagen for the first time since the rugged off-roader was launched in 1979.
The quad-motor G580 arrives locally in March 2025 and undercuts the V8-powered AMG G63 by more than $119,000, making it the most 'affordable' G-Class since the six-cylinder diesel-powered G400d in 2022.
Officially badged as the Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ Technology, the electric G-Class packs four electric motors, one on each wheel, with 108kW and 219Nm output a piece.
This gives the G580 combined outputs of 432kW and 1164Nm, more than even the Mercedes-AMG G63 which delivers 430kW and 850Nm from its twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8.
Each wheel can be powered individually, enabling the G580's party trick of being able to turn the wheels on the left and right of the car in opposite directions for a skid-steer style turning capability.
Powering the G580 is a 116kWh battery that delivers a claimed driving range in NEDC testing of 567km. For comparison, the more aerodynamic EQS680 Maybach SUV from which the G580's battery is derived claims 662km range (17 per cent more).
The G580 continues to use a ladder-frame chassis like its fossil-fuel powered sibling.
The iconic G-Wagen looks are still present too, with only subtle clues hinting at the car's electric powertrain. The bonnet, rear wheel arches and roof spoiler have been subtly changed for better aerodynamics.
The tailgate-mounted spare wheel has been swapped for a charger-carrying 'backpack' – though a spare is available there in some markets – and buyers have the option of adding a blank-panel grille to replace the standard horizontal bar item (the AMG models feature vertical bars).
It still has the off-road chops too, with the electric power affording a deeper wade depth of up to 850mm, compared to 700mm on petrol or diesel models.
There is a three-speed crawl function for technical maneuvers and the G580 can still climb a 45-degree slope or drive tilted at a 35-degree angle.
Gone are the manually activated differential locks, replaced by technology that can apply the right amount of torque to any wheel at any time, depending on the situation.
Inside, the utilitarian-luxury favoured by rappers and Kardashians is still present, with twin 12.3-inch LCD screens running the latest MBUX operating system.
There's Burmeter 3D Surround sound, a Nappa leather steering wheel, power seats, heated cupholders and all the usual standard equipment.
The G580 with EQ technology can charge at up to 200kW DC, affording a recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in around 32 minutes.
To welcome the launch of the electric G-Wagen, a limited Edition One variant will be offered alongside the regular G580. Mechanically the same, the Edition One adds a choice of five colours, blue brake calipers, blue trim highlights, black 20-inch wheels and a Nappa leather interior in silver pearl with blue accents.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ technology will arrive, led by Edition One models, in Australian showrooms in March.
2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ technology price in Australia
Note: All prices above exclude on-road costs
2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 standard features:
2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 Edition One (over standard):
Manufaktur South Sea Blue Magno, Classic Grey Uni, Opalite White Magno, Opalite White Bright, Obsidian Black Metallic
The optional $4300 Night Package adds:
The optional $3800 Black Panel radiator grille (with illumination) can be added to the Night Package
The optional $14,500 Superior Line Interior Plus Package adds:
The optional $4100 Manufaktur Exterior Package adds:
The optional $8500 Interior Comfort Package adds:
With over 20 years of experience in digital publishing, James Ward has worked within the automotive landscape since 2007 and brings experience from the publishing, manufacturer and lifestyle side of the industry together to spearhead Drive's multi-media content direction.
