SPEEDOMETER
Mercedes-Benz G 580 EV Review: An Electric Take on an Iconic Off-Roader
by Robert Stedman
05 Oct 2025
05 Oct 2025
A review of the unusual-looking, luxurious, and rugged Mercedes-Benz G 580 EV.
In a world where electric vehicles are swiftly transforming the automotive industry, few manufacturers have dared to electrify their most iconic models. Mercedes-Benz has confidently entered this market with the G 580 featuring EQ Technology, transforming the legendary G-Wagon into a fully electric beast that aims to redefine rugged luxury.
- THE LEGACY LIVES ON, ELECTRIFIED
- QUAD-MOTOR MADNESS
- RANGE AND CHARGING: URBAN PRACTICALITY
- INTERIOR: WHERE TRADITION MEETS INNOVATION
- PERFORMANCE: MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS
- THE PRICE OF PROGRESS
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been an automotive icon for over four decades. It was originally designed as a military vehicle before being turned into the ultimate status symbol for celebrities, business magnates, and adventure enthusiasts alike. The G 580 is the first fully electric G-Class. Still, it retains every ounce of the commanding presence and distinctive boxy silhouette that has made the G-Wagon instantly recognisable across roads –from Beverly Hills to Marina Bay.
At first glance, you might mistake the G 580 for its petrol-powered siblings. The signature utilitarian design, prominent wheel arches, and commanding military stance remain unchanged. However, look closer and you’ll notice subtle electric-specific features:
A closed-off grille with illuminated Mercedes three-pointed star, aerodynamically optimised wheels, and distinctive EQG badging that all hint at the revolutionary drivetrain beneath.
- THE LEGACY LIVES ON, ELECTRIFIED
- QUAD-MOTOR MADNESS
- RANGE AND CHARGING: URBAN PRACTICALITY
- INTERIOR: WHERE TRADITION MEETS INNOVATION
- PERFORMANCE: MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS
- THE PRICE OF PROGRESS
Quad-Motor Madness
Where the G 580 truly distinguishes itself from all other electric SUVS is its unprecedented four-motor drivetrain. While some vehicles use one, and others two, this model features more. It offers the great outdoors a genuine challenge, with four individually controlled electric motors that deliver an impressive 580 hp and 859 lb-ft of torque. To put this into perspective, that’s more torque than a Bugatti Chiron, the world’s fastest and most powerful supercar, all within an SUV capable of navigating Singapore’s urban landscape just as confidently as it would conquer the jungles of Malaysia’s Taman Negara.
How did Mercedes come up with the name? Mercedes named the vehicle based on its power output, with the number “580” referring to the vehicle’s 580 horsepower, produced by its four electric motors. The “G” in G 580 stands for Gelandewagen, the German term for “cross-country vehicle”.
The electric G-wagon unlocks new off-road potential as a different type of four-by-four: Four motors, four transmissions. Since each wheel has its own dedicated motor, it allows for precise torque vectoring, making traditional mechanical differential locks seem outdated. This setup enables feats that would surprise even experienced off-road enthusiasts — imagine performing a perfect 360-degree turn on the spot, or “tank turning” as Mercedes calls it. Such a manoeuvre brings a whole new meaning to doing doughnuts in the car park.
- THE LEGACY LIVES ON, ELECTRIFIED
- QUAD-MOTOR MADNESS
- RANGE AND CHARGING: URBAN PRACTICALITY
- INTERIOR: WHERE TRADITION MEETS INNOVATION
- PERFORMANCE: MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS
- THE PRICE OF PROGRESS
Range and Charging: Urban Practicality
For drivers in Singapore, range anxiety shouldn’t be an issue. Mercedes estimates the range to be approximately 385 km. The robust 116-kWh battery guarantees that even the most eager urban explorers won’t find themselves stranded.
The vehicle’s charging capabilities are equally impressive. DC fast charging can reach a maximum of 200 kW, and Mercedes-Benz estimates that on such a connection, the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in about 32 minutes. With Singapore’s rapidly expanding charging infrastructure, including numerous 350 kW ultra-fast charging stations, keeping the G 580 topped up should be no problem.
In Singapore’s context and almost everywhere else, the G 580 makes perfect sense. The instant torque delivery provides effortless acceleration, ideal for merging onto the ECP or navigating the stop-and-go traffic of Orchard Road. The raised driving position offers a commanding view of the urban landscape. At the same time, the near-silent electric drivetrain creates a peaceful cabin environment
— a welcome break from the city’s bustling sounds.
- THE LEGACY LIVES ON, ELECTRIFIED
- QUAD-MOTOR MADNESS
- RANGE AND CHARGING: URBAN PRACTICALITY
- INTERIOR: WHERE TRADITION MEETS INNOVATION
- PERFORMANCE: MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS
- THE PRICE OF PROGRESS
Interior: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Step inside and you’re greeted by the familiar G-Class cabin that seamlessly blends rugged practicality with modern luxury. The interior retains the traditional upright seating and commanding dashboard layout, but everything has been updated with contemporary technology. The MBUX infotainment system provides detailed energy flow displays, range estimates, and charging station locations — essential tools for the electric age.
High-quality materials are abundant, from the hand-stitched leather surfaces to the durable switches that seem capable of lasting for decades. The seats offer excellent support for both city driving and more adventurous journeys, while multiple USB-C ports ensure all passengers stay connected in today’s digital age. The rear seats also feature entertainment systems with dual screens, and there’s no doubt that passengers will enjoy the standard Burmester 3D Surround Sound System. Also practical and very Germanic, you can fold the rear seats to create extra cargo space.
- THE LEGACY LIVES ON, ELECTRIFIED
- QUAD-MOTOR MADNESS
- RANGE AND CHARGING: URBAN PRACTICALITY
- INTERIOR: WHERE TRADITION MEETS INNOVATION
- PERFORMANCE: MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS
- THE PRICE OF PROGRESS
Performance: More Than Just Numbers
The performance figures tell only part of the story. The G 580 delivers its power with the refined sophistication expected of a Mercedes-Benz, yet with an immediacy that internal combustion engines simply cannot match. Acceleration is relentless and smooth, pushing occupants into their seats with a force that never feels brutal or unrefined.
The advanced suspension system, which combines independent front suspension with a De Dion rear axle, offers a surprisingly comfortable ride quality for such a utilitarian-looking vehicle. A De Dion rear axle is a suspension system in which the differential is mounted to the vehicle’s chassis (in this case, the motor), rather than to the axle itself, which is a rigid beam or tube connecting the wheels, absorbing road imperfections effortlessly. The low centre of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery pack) actually enhances handling compared to the petrol-powered G-Class vehicles.
- THE LEGACY LIVES ON, ELECTRIFIED
- QUAD-MOTOR MADNESS
- RANGE AND CHARGING: URBAN PRACTICALITY
- INTERIOR: WHERE TRADITION MEETS INNOVATION
- PERFORMANCE: MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS
- THE PRICE OF PROGRESS
The Price of Progress
In Singapore, the G 580 with EQ Technology commands a premium price of around S$800,000, reflecting its status as one of the most exclusive electric SUVs in the market. While this represents a significant investment that firmly places it in the ultraluxury segment, it is essential to consider what you are receiving: state-of-the-art four-motor electric technology, unparalleled offroad abilities, and the prestige of owning the world’s first electric G-Class. For Singapore’s wealthy buyers seeking the ultimate blend of environmental awareness and automotive exclusivity, the G 580 holds a distinctive position with virtually no direct competitors.
The Mercedes-Benz G 580 exemplifies automotive progress — respecting tradition while confidently embracing the future. It demonstrates that electrification does not sacrifice character or capability. For Singapore drivers looking for the perfect blend of luxury, performance, and environmental awareness, all wrapped in one of the world’s most iconic and sought-after shapes, the G 580 stands unrivalled.
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