Mercedes-Benz has boldly stepped into the electric future with the launch of its first-ever fully electric G-Class: the all-new G 580 with EQ Technology.
- The G 580 from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and is electronically limited to 180 km/h.
- The unique G-TURN and G-STEER feature debut on the G580 along with G-ROAR.
- The G580 with EQ Technology starts at just over R3,8-million.
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The Sandton Times was among a select group of motoring media invited to test-drive the new Geländewagen. Having never been a fan of the boxy G-Class, the test-drive came with a fair amount of bias, but what followed was nothing short of a revelation. What was expected to be a routine launch quickly turned into one of the most thrilling car experiences to date, transforming G-Wagen scepticism to admiration.
The new G 580 is a seamless blend of legacy and innovation. It retains the unmistakable DNA of the off-road legend while incorporating cutting-edge electric capabilities. Since its debut in 1979, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has represented uncompromising off-road performance and timeless design, conquering rugged terrains and turning heads wherever it goes. But now, Mercedes-Benz has introduced the electric variant, proving that the electrification of the G-Class hasn’t dulled its trail-conquering spirit.
The engineers didn’t meet the brief to make it as good off-road as the combustion version. They made it better.
// Executive Director MBC and Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa, Claudius Steinhoff
The electric G-Class, now dubbed the G 580, stays true to the G’s iconic design. That classic, angular silhouette is unmistakable, with signature touches like the wing-mounted indicators and distinctive door handles still very much in place. At first glance, it’s the same G you’ve always admired. But upon closer inspection, the G 580 reveals subtle updates – including an optional black-panel radiator grille with animated LED bands and EQ badges discreetly placed on the wings.
One standout feature is the EDITION ONE special model, which offers five exclusive MANUFAKTUR paint finishes, including South Sea Blue Magno and Classic Grey Solid. This special edition turns the G 580 into a moving piece of high-tech art. With blue-trimmed brake calipers, aerodynamically optimized 20-inch AMG wheels, and blue carbon-fibre interior accents, the G 580 is as electrifying in style as it is in performance.
Forget everything you thought you knew about electric vehicles and their off-road limitations. The G 580 rewrites the rulebook. Equipped with four individually controlled electric motors – one behind each wheel – this G-Class doesn’t just match the internal combustion engine (ICE) versions in capability; it exceeds them.
Clint Weston, Mercedes-Benz’s dynamic driving specialist, spoke passionately about the evolution of the G 580’s off-road abilities.
The off-road capabilities have always been outstanding, especially with the G-Range up to the G 63 AMG. Even with that, we used to experience a lot of body lean. When you turned aggressively, the vehicle wouldn’t always behave as expected.
// Mercedes-Benz Dynamic Driving, Clint Weston
With the introduction of Active Suspension Control, the G 580 has evolved.
It’s taken the G-Class to another level. The vehicle remains balanced at all times, its response through the steering is sharper, and the drive modes – from Comfort to Sport+ – offer greater versatility.
// Mercedes-Benz Dynamic Driving, Clint Weston
The G 580, even in its electric form, continues to deliver dynamic on-road performance and unmatched off-road prowess. The Active Suspension Control, combined with the newly developed suspension setup, addresses the previous body lean issues and ensures a smooth, stable ride in all conditions.
Mercedes-Benz hasn’t sacrificed choice in its pursuit of electric excellence. South African customers can still choose from three distinct G-Class powertrains: the G 450d, a smooth inline-six diesel; the powerful Mercedes-AMG G 63 for those who love petrol; and now, the electrifying G 580 with EQ Technology. It’s a lineup tailored for every lifestyle, from tackling the dunes of the Kalahari to navigating the stop-start pace of Sandton’s traffic lights. While some might miss the characteristic growl of the G-Class’s engine, the G 580 offers a “G-Roar” function, delivering an iconic sound effect that adds texture to the drive.
Inside, the G 580 retains the luxurious interior G-Class owners have come to expect, but with a digital upgrade. The MBUX infotainment system is standard, with two 12.3-inch displays managing navigation, media, and vehicle functions. Ambient lighting, Nappa leather upholstery, and open-pore walnut trim are standard, with nearly 30 MANUFAKTUR interior options available for those who want a more personalized touch. The G 580 also features voice assistant technology, responding to around 20 G-Class-specific commands, and MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation, which overlays real-time directions onto live camera views, simplifying even the most challenging city traffic.
One of the unique touches of the electric G-Class is the rectangular design box mounted on the rear door. A nod to the EV lifestyle, it’s designed to store cables, tools, or snow chains and includes a designer cover, luggage nets, and a Velcro strap. For those who prefer the classic G-Class look, a rear-mounted spare wheel is still available as an option. Additional smart design choices include adaptive MULTIBEAM LED headlights, heat-insulating dark-tinted glass on the rear windows, and aerodynamically optimized 18-inch wheels that improve range and reduce wind noise.
The Mercedes-Benz MANUFAKTUR customisation program is fully available for the G-Class, allowing owners to choose from 25 exterior colours or create a completely bespoke hue. If you’re looking for a personal touch, you can even have your name embroidered on the headrests or dashboard.
If a colour is close to your heart – your family colour or whatever it is – we’ll find a way to make it happen.
// Executive Director MBC and Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa, Claudius Steinhoff
Mercedes-Benz South Africa is pairing the G-Class with its most comprehensive ownership plan yet, offering a 7-year/140,000-kilometre service and maintenance package. Whether it’s a flat tyre in the Karoo or a software update in Cape Town, Mercedes-Benz promises peace of mind for both the vehicle and the driver. For those custom ordering a G-Wagen, expect a 4–5-month lead time.
In a rare feat, the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology reinvents an automotive icon without losing an ounce of its soul. This is not just an electric SUV; it’s a new chapter in the G-Class legacy. It retains the legendary silhouette, amplifies off-road dominance, and introduces cutting-edge digital elegance, bespoke luxury, and sustainable innovation. When Mercedes-Benz does electric, it does so without compromise. The G 580, with its whisper-quiet torque and thunderous legacy, is simply stronger than time. It’s the G-Class that hits the spot.
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