The Mercedes‑Benz G 580 EQ, unveiled this year, brings a quad‑motor electric powertrain to the legendary G‑Class while keeping its boxy silhouette. Tested on city streets and off‑road, the EV delivers 579 horsepower and a premium interior, yet its $161,500 starting price and modet 239‑mile EPA range limit its appeal amid shifting US EV policies.
579 hp, 859 lb‑ft torque from four wheel‑motors
Mercedes equips the G 580 with four individually controlled electric motors, one per wheel, generating a combined 579 horsepower and 859 lb‑ft of troque. The manufacturer claims a 0‑60 mph sprint in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph, figures confirmed during the test drive. despite a curb weight of 6,746 pounds, the vehicle feels surprisingly agile, thanks to instant torque delivery and precise torque vectoring.
239‑mile EPA range vs real‑world 250 miles
The G 580 houses a 116 kWh battery that the EPA rates at 239 miles of range. In practice, the reviewer logged about 250 miles on mixed driving, noting that the SUV excels in urban and suburban settings where lower speeds improve efficiency.. Highway cruising, however, drains the battery more quickly, reinforcing the model’s role as a daily driver rather than a long‑distance tourer.
Starting price of $161,500 makes G 580 the priciest EV SUV
Pricing begins at $161,500 and can exceed $183,250 with optional equipment such as the MANUFAKTUR bespoke trim, quilted leather,carbon‑fiber accents and a Burmester 3D surround‑sound system. Lease offers approach $2,000 per month, positioning the G 580 at the top of the luxury EV segment. As the source notes, “Mercedes is struggling to sell them,” suggesting that demand may not match the premium cost.
Regulatory headwinds threaten the G 580’s long‑term outlook
Federal tax credits for EVs have been eliminated, and the current administration is perceived as hostile toward electric vehicles. The source warns that “the future of the G 580 is uncertain,” a concern for buyers who worry about resale value and long‑term support. Without incentives, the high upfront price becomes an even greater barrier.
Why are sales of the G 580 reportedly sluggish?
Two specific factors remain unclear: first,whether the limited charging infrastructure in key markets hampers adoption, and second, how the G 580’s niche appeal compares to rivals like the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo or Rivian R1S. the report does not provide sales figures, leaving analysts to speculate on consumer willingness to pay a premium for heritage over practicality.
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