Mercedes-Benz has finally introduced the new “Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ Technology,” essentially an electric version of the beloved G-Wagon. It looks a lot like the traditional G-Wagon but is powered by an electric motor and a battery. However, it’s not the only electric SUV worth considering; the Rivian R2 is another excellent option.
Both the Mercedes G580 and the Rivian R2 have a lot to offer but have different approaches to the electric SUV concept. To determine which is better, I decided to compare them head-to-head.
The design philosophy of these two vehicles varies significantly, and your preference might differ depending on your taste. The G580 maintains the classic G-Wagon’s boxy, rugged look, with round headlights, a flat roof, and minimal curves. It also features a new grille with the Mercedes-Benz logo at the center and measures 182 inches in length, 76 inches in width, and 78 inches in height.
On the other hand, the Rivian R2, while still boxy and relatively large, has a slightly more approachable design. It sports Rivian’s signature oval headlights and a long light bar at the back, and it measures 185.6 inches long, 75 inches wide, and 66.9 inches tall. So, it’s a bit longer than the G580 but slightly narrower and considerably shorter. Ultimately, both vehicles are visually appealing, and choosing which design you prefer is a personal decision.
Inside, the vehicles also diverge quite a bit. The G580’s interior is a blend of the previous G-Wagon and other Mercedes electric cars, combining rugged elements like large handles and sporty seats with modern features such as a dual-display setup for the infotainment system and instrument monitoring. It also includes bright accent lighting and supports both CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Rivian R2’s interior leans more towards a tech-focused approach. It still looks rugged, with sturdy seat coverings and large displays up front, including a 15.6-inch infotainment display. While it doesn’t support CarPlay or Android Auto, it features Rivian’s own software, which is generally well-received. Additionally, both the front and rear seats of the R2 can fold down flat, creating enough space for an air mattress, a handy feature for camping enthusiasts. So, while the Rivian appears more advanced in terms of software, some buyers might still prefer the familiar third-party systems like CarPlay.
When it comes to performance, both the G580 and the Rivian R2 pack a punch but in different ways. The G580 is offered only in a quad-motor configuration with 579 horsepower and 859 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. It also boasts features like the G-steering function and virtual differential locking for improved off-roading capabilities.
Rivian R2, although not yet available for purchase, promises impressive specs. The R2 will come in single-, dual-, and tri-motor configurations, with the most powerful variant accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds. Given its amazing performance stats, the Rivian R2 edges out the G580 in this category.
Range and charging are crucial for any electric vehicle, and the differences between these two models are noticeable. The Mercedes G580 can go up to 240 miles on a single charge and supports charging at up to 200 kilowatts, achieving 10% to 80% battery in just over 30 minutes. In contrast, the Rivian R2 is expected to offer over 300 miles of range, likely enabled by its longest-range versions. Charging capabilities for the R2 are expected to match those of the R1S at 220 kW. As a result, the Rivian R2 wins in the range and charging category as well.
Both the Mercedes-Benz G580 and Rivian R2 have been unveiled, but neither is available for purchase just yet. The G580 is expected to be priced between $150,000 and $200,000 and is anticipated to go on sale later this year, although a specific date has not been announced. The Rivian R2 is aimed at being a more affordable vehicle with a price tag of $45,000, but it won’t hit the market until the first half of 2026. While the R2 is substantially cheaper, the G580 will be available sooner, making this a tie.
In summary, Rivian has certainly made waves in the electric vehicle market, while the G-Wagon retains its iconic cool factor. As an electric vehicle, the Rivian R2 outperforms the G580 with better performance, longer range (depending on the trim), and a significantly lower price. However, the Mercedes-Benz G580 offers unique off-roading features and a classic style that can’t be overlooked.