Mercedes-Benz has announced the pricing and specifications for the all-electric G-Wagon in Australia, marking the arrival of a tough-looking EV in the market. The new electric off-roader is named the G 580 and comes equipped with a quad-motor setup.
The G 580 boasts 432 kW of power and a staggering 1,164 Nm of peak torque, paired with a 116 kWh battery pack. This configuration promises a range of up to 567 km based on the NEDC cycle, though real-world driving conditions are likely to deliver a range closer to 450 km on a single charge. The vehicle carries a price tag of $249,900 before on-road costs, positioning it at the higher end of the Mercedes-Benz electric vehicle lineup.
The 116 kWh battery utilizes a 400 V architecture and supports DC fast-charging at speeds up to 200 kW, ensuring quick top-ups.
The G 580’s design echoes the original G-Wagon, which debuted in 1979 and quickly gained renown for its robust off-road capabilities and distinctive, rugged styling. This latest version comes with enhanced underbody protection, offering 26 mm of additional safeguarding for off-road adventures. Its length is 4.62 meters, making it shorter than the current Tesla Model Y.
The G 580 is packed with off-road features designed to maximize its capabilities when tackling rough terrain. One notable feature is the G-steering function, which allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds, enabling slight oversteer depending on the track conditions. Simultaneously, the G-turn function enables the wheels on opposite sides of the vehicle to rotate in opposing directions, allowing the G 580 to spin on the spot when traversing loose surfaces.
Designed for serious off-road enthusiasts, the vehicle features a three-speed off-road crawl function that acts like cruise control on challenging terrain. According to Mercedes-Benz, the G 580 can effortlessly navigate 45-degree slopes and traverse 35-degree angles. Trail and Rock off-road programs are included to simplify off-road excursions.
In demanding terrains, a low-range off-road gear reduction is available, thanks to the four individual motors, each equipped with its own transmission, to maximize torque and maintain temperature control. For owners likely to spend most of their time on paved roads, the G 580 offers three on-road programs: Comfort, Sport, and Individual. Each program adjusts the behavior of the boxy G-Wagon to suit the driver’s preferences.
Moving inside, the G 580 includes the MBUX infotainment system found in other Mercedes-Benz EQ models, featuring a series of large screens on the dashboard. Whether on-road or off-road, the G-Wagon provides critical driving data such as gradients, lateral inclinations, compass readings, tire pressure, and the active G-Mode. For on-road comfort, amenities include a Burmester 3D Surround Sound system, Nappa leather upholstery, power front seats with memory function, heated and cooled cupholders, and wireless smartphone charging.
Several optional packages extend the comfort and convenience features of the G 580, as shown below:
- Night Package: $4,300
- MANUFAKTUR Exterior Package: $4,100
- Black Panel radiator grille: $3,800
- Superior Line Interior Plus Package: $14,500
- Interior Comfort Package: $8,500
With its unique offering for an off-road EV and the heritage of the iconic G-Wagon, the G 580 is expected to attract a considerable number of buyers. The EV is scheduled to arrive in Australia by mid-2025.
