Mercedes-Benz G 580 EQ Launches in South Africa with Power, Prestige, and G-TURNs


Mercedes-Benz has just plugged in the legend. The all-new electric G-Class, officially the G 580 with EQ Technology, takes the iconic off-roader into the EV era—without losing an ounce of its off-road bravado or boxy charm. And yes, it still looks like it eats mountains for breakfast.


First Things First: The Numbers

  • 432 kW (579 hp) total output
  • 1,164 Nm of torque
  • 0–100 km/h in 4.7 seconds
  • Top speed: Electronically capped at 180 km/h
  • Battery capacity: 116 kWh usable
  • WLTP range: Up to 473 km
  • DC fast charging: 10–80% in 32 minutes at up to 200 kW
  • Price in South Africa:
  • G 580 EQ: R 3,823,457
  • G 580 EQ EDITION ONE: R 4,647,456

The Icon, Reimagined

At a glance, it’s unmistakably G-Class—flat glass, exposed door hinges, round headlights. But this time, it’s all-electric and all-extra. Four motors (one per wheel) tucked into a reinforced ladder frame mean independent torque control on each wheel. This brings serious game to the trail, with virtual differential locks, G-STEERING, and the wildest party trick of all: G-TURN, a tank-style 360° pivot spin on the spot.


EDITION ONE: Launch Edition with Extra Everything

South Africa gets the exclusive EDITION ONE model at launch. It’s got all the good stuff—20-inch AMG wheels, the Night Package, blue accent trim, and nappa leather inside with blue carbon fibre trim. It even beams "Stronger Than Time" onto the pavement when you open the door.

Pick from five head-turning colours, including MANUFAKTUR south sea blue magno and classic grey solid. There’s also an optional rear spare wheel or a slick rectangular design box to store charging cables or chains.


Interior: Classic G, Digital Brain

Inside, it’s G-Class luxury meets digital smarts. A 12.3-inch dual display with the MBUX infotainment system and voice assistant ("Hey Mercedes" now optional) controls everything. You get Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Augmented Reality Navigation—it overlays directions on live camera feed to guide you through tricky turns or chaotic intersections.


Built to Climb, Swim, and Tilt

This isn’t just a pretty electric face. The G 580 EQ retains serious off-road chops:

  • 100% gradeability (on the right surface)
  • Ground clearance: 250 mm
  • Fording depth: 850 mm (yes, better than the gas version)
  • Side slope stability: Up to 35°
  • Approach/departure angles: 32°/30.7°
  • Breakover angle: 20.3°


The suspension has been tuned with adaptive adjustable damping, LOW RANGE gearing, and a revamped De Dion rear axle for better articulation and balance.


Tech That Does the Thinking

Forget clunky off-road knobs. The G 580 uses smart systems and torque vectoring to handle tough terrain—automatically. The LOW RANGE mode shifts each wheel’s motor via a shared gearbox for more torque and less heat when crawling over boulders. And yes, it has a unique G-ROAR sound system to simulate engine noise, plus ambient “aura” and event sounds to keep things lively.


Final Charge

The G 580 EQ is the most futuristic G-Class yet—but it doesn’t abandon its roots. It's still built like a tank, but now it's got four electric motors, spaceship lighting, and the ability to twirl in place like a ballet dancer. In short: the legend evolves, but never compromises.


Whether you're conquering a mountain or just making a statement at the mall, this electric G-Wagen is ready to roll—and it's only available in limited numbers. Better move fast. Or better yet, G-TURN.


Images : Supplied