The Mercedes G-Class is an icon of luxury and ruggedness. With the introduction of the G 580, Mercedes has brought an all-electric spin to this classic, setting it apart from the roaring V8-powered G 63. So, how do these two SUVs stack up? Let’s break it down.
Exterior Design: Evolution with Familiarity
At first glance, the G 580 and G 63 look almost identical, staying true to the G-Class’s signature boxy aesthetic. However, a closer inspection reveals subtle differences:
- G 580: Features a raised hood and air vents on the rear wheel arches to improve aerodynamic efficiency, reducing the drag coefficient from 0.48 to 0.44. It sits on 20-inch rims and boasts powertrain-specific badging on its fenders.
- G 63: Comes with a sportier grille and bumpers, 22-inch alloy wheels, and maintains its aggressive AMG styling.
Signature elements like the round headlamps, fender-mounted turn indicators, and the rear-mounted spare wheel are retained in both models.
Interior and Features: Nearly Identical but Modernized
Step inside, and the G 580 and G 63 share much of their interior layout:
- Shared Features: Twin-screen infotainment and instrument displays, turbine-inspired AC vents, and a grab handle on the passenger side.
- Differences: The G 63 comes with an AMG-specific sporty steering wheel, while the G 580 introduces EV-specific features like G-Turn and G-Steering buttons in place of traditional differential lock controls.
Both interiors exude luxury, offering cutting-edge technology alongside a timeless design.
Powertrain and Performance: ICE vs. Electric
G 580: Silent Yet Powerful
The G 580 is powered by four electric motors (one on each wheel) delivering:
- Power: 587 hp
- Torque: 1,164 Nm
- Battery: 116 kWh with a 473 km WLTP range
- 0-100 km/h: 4.7 seconds
- Top Speed: 180 km/h
With a two-speed gearbox for low-range performance and an off-road crawl function, the G 580 blends futuristic tech with off-road capability.
G 63: The Classic Performer
The G 63’s roaring 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 generates:
- Power: 585 hp (+22 hp from a mild-hybrid system)
- Torque: 850 Nm
- Transmission: 9-speed DCT
- 0-100 km/h: 4.4 seconds
- Top Speed: 220 km/h
Despite being heavier, the G 580’s electric torque delivery makes it feel just as agile.
Off-Road Capabilities: Modern vs. Traditional
Mercedes claims the G 580 is even more capable off-road than the G 63. Here’s how they compare:
| Spec | G 580 | G 63 |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 32.6° | 31° |
| Departure Angle | 31.1° | 30° |
| Breakover Angle | 20.8° | 26° |
| Water Wading Capacity | 850 mm | 700 mm |
While the G 63 relies on mechanical differential locks, the G 580 uses electronic torque vectoring, allowing advanced maneuvers like the G-Turn (a 360° spin on the spot).
Weight and Handling: A Game of Trade-Offs
- G 580: Weighs 3,085 kg due to its large battery pack.
- G 63: Lighter at 2,640 kg, making it slightly more agile in spirited driving.
Despite the weight difference, both vehicles deliver an unparalleled driving experience, whether on or off-road.
Pricing: A Surprising Twist
Here’s where things get interesting. The G 580 is priced at Rs. 3 crore (ex-showroom), making it cheaper than the G 63, which costs Rs. 3.64 crore. This makes the G 580 an attractive option for those looking to embrace electric mobility without compromising on luxury.
Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
- Go for the G 580 if:
You want cutting-edge electric technology, exceptional torque, and a quieter ride while enjoying the same off-road prowess. - Stick with the G 63 if:
You crave the raw emotion of a roaring V8, faster acceleration, and AMG’s signature sporty character.
