[Auto/Moto] The Six-Cylinder G-Class Isn't for Enthusiasts

[-_-Moltres-_-]

 

Every G-Class sold in America since Mercedes started importing the truck has had a V-8 engine. The G500, the G550, the G55 AMG, and the twin-turbo AMG G63. Every single one has come with eight cylinders (save for a handful of limited-production V-12 models). Now, for the first time, you’ll soon be able to buy an internal combustion G-Wagen without a V-8. Mercedes dropped the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 from the base G550 for 2025, replacing it with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six paired to a mild-hybrid system. It makes the truck quicker and more efficient than before, and for normal consumers, it’s the better choice. But I still miss the V-8.That mild-hybrid tech comes in the form of a 48-volt-powered integrated starter-generator (ISG) mounted between the engine and the nine-speed automatic gearbox. Mercedes rates the engine at 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque—27 more horses but 37 fewer lb-ft than the V-8. The ISG can supply an additional 20 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque at lower engine speeds, though, making the new powertrain feel far peppier while setting off.The hybrid assistance makes the inline-six feel like a more responsive and modern powertrain. By strict German numbers-matter-most standards, it’s the better one to have. But it’s just not as interesting as the old 4.0-liter. Gone is the G-Wagen’s signature V-8 rumble, something that made every G identifiable from idle alone. I suspected Mercedes would want to hide the sound of the six-cylinder, but it’s still audible, from inside and outside of the truck. I don’t mind the sound of an inline-six, but this one isn’t very nice to listen to. At times it can be buzzy and annoying; something I wouldn’t expect of any Mercedes product, much less a G-Wagen. Again, this is something that I suspect most G-Wagen buyers might not care about. But to me, the V-8 was a more enjoyable experience.

https://www.motor1.com/reviews/719255/2025-mercedes-benz-g550-review/