This video reviews the electric Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon, the G580 with EQ Technology, positioning it as an electric adaptation of the classic G-Wagon design rather than a ground-up EV. The vehicle is a quad-motor EV producing 579 horsepower and 859 lb-ft of torque, but its massive weight (nearly 7,000 lbs) and poor aerodynamics ("as aerodynamic as a tombstone") significantly limit its efficiency. Despite a large 116 kWh battery, the estimated range is only around 240 miles. The review highlights that the G580 successfully preserves the iconic exterior look, luxurious interior, and signature mechanical sounds of the G-Wagon. However, the driving experience is where it surpasses its gas-powered siblings. The low center of gravity from the battery pack provides a more dynamic and stable ride, while the instant torque from the four motors delivers superior responsiveness and makes it the most capable G-Wagon for off-roading. The video concludes that while it sacrifices EV efficiency for iconic style, it offers the most refined and powerful-feeling G-Wagon experience for daily driving.
Reviewing the Electric G-Wagon: A Blend of Classic Luxury and Modern Power
0:00:04 The Electric G-Wagon Concept: The G580 is presented not as a new EV, but as an electrified version of the iconic, old G-Wagon design, positioned as a mid-tier option alongside its gas-powered counterparts (G550 and G63).
0:01:03 Inefficient by Design: It features a quad-motor setup with 579 hp and a 116 kWh battery. However, due to its nearly 7,000-pound weight and boxy, unaerodynamic shape, its range is limited to approximately 240 miles.
0:01:46 Iconic Exterior and Sounds: The vehicle retains the classic G-Wagon look with minor EV updates like a light-up front grille. Crucially, the satisfyingly mechanical door closing and locking sounds have been preserved.
0:03:10 A Familiar Luxurious Cabin: The interior is classic Mercedes luxury, avoiding an all-screen layout in favor of a mix of displays and physical buttons. It features premium materials, an array of USB-C ports, and wireless CarPlay/Android Auto.
0:04:45 Advanced Comfort Seats: A standout feature is the large, comfortable seats which are heated, ventilated, and offer massages. They also feature active bolsters that hug the driver during turns to provide support.
0:06:09 Underwhelming Audio: A surprising critique is that the Burmester sound system, despite having speakers throughout the cabin, is not as impressive as expected for a vehicle in this price range.
0:08:52 The Best Driving G-Wagon: The second reviewer claims it is the best version of the G-Wagon to drive. The low center of gravity from the battery pack makes it feel sharper, more dynamic, and significantly less prone to body roll than the gas models.
0:09:54 Instant Torque is Key: Despite having slightly less horsepower than the AMG G63, the G580's massive and instantly available 859 lb-ft of torque makes it feel more powerful and responsive in everyday driving scenarios like accelerating on the freeway.
0:11:17 Most Capable Off-Roader: The quad-motor setup allows for advanced torque vectoring at each wheel, making it the most technically capable G-Wagon for off-roading, even if most owners will never use this feature.
0:12:00 A Future Secondhand Bargain: It is predicted that the G580 will depreciate faster than its gas counterparts, potentially making it the most affordable G-Wagon to buy on the secondhand market.