Comparing BMW’s most powerful PHEV “XM” and the electric Mercedes-Benz luxury crossover “G 580 with EQ Technology”

Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology

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BMW XM

The relaxed stance of the BMW XM

In 2024, Mercedes-Benz, which is promoting the electrification of its lineup, announced the “G 580 with EQ Technology,” which retains the iconic G-Class form but is equipped with a fully electric powertrain. This marks the first time that a BEV has been added to the Geländewagen lineup, which has a tradition of over 45 years. This time, we will compare it with the “BMW XM,” which debuted in 2022. It is a high-performance SUV equipped with a powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain. It is the first M-exclusive model since the mid-engine super sports car “M1” released in 1978, and was developed as the first PHEV-equipped vehicle in the lineup developed by BMW M GmbH.

The G 580 with EQ technology introduces exterior styling exclusive to fully electric models, such as a black panel grille, but the rugged form of the G-Class remains unchanged, a design that has been passed down since its debut in 1979. The BMW XM does not have a base model in the X series, and instead adopts a completely original exterior design.

The BMW XM is 380mm longer, its wheelbase is 215mm longer, and its overall height is 235mm lower. Compared to the boxy cross-country style G 580 with EQ technology, the BMW XM has a stretched and wide stance like a sports car.

Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology

Body size = Length 4730mm x Width 1985mm x Height 1990mm

Wheelbase = 2890mm

Vehicle weight = 3120kg

Tire size = 275/50R20

BMW XM

Body size = Length 5110mm x Width 2005mm x Height 1755mm

Wheelbase = 3105mm

Vehicle weight = 2710kg

Tire size = 275/35R23 (front), 315/30R23 (rear)

PHEV powertrain delivers powerful power

The G 580 with EQ technology is equipped with four independent motors specially developed for the G-Class, mounted on a sturdy ladder frame chassis. Two 108kW motors are installed at the front and rear, producing a maximum system output of 587PS (432kW) and a maximum torque of 1164Nm.

The BMW XM combines a powerful 4.4-liter V8 twin-turbo with an 8-speed M Steptronic (AT) with an integrated electric motor, boasting impressive specifications of a maximum system output of 653 PS and a maximum system torque of 800 Nm. The aerodynamically superior BMW XM achieves 0-100 km/h acceleration of 3.8 seconds, beating the G 580 with EQ technology by nearly one second.

Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology

Power unit = 4 motors + lithium-ion battery

Maximum system output = 587 PS

Maximum torque = 1164 Nm

Drive system = AWD

Maximum cruising range = 530 km (WLTC mode)

Top speed = 180 km/h

0-100 km/h acceleration = 4.7 seconds

BMW XM

Engine type = V8 twin-turbo + plug-in hybrid

Displacement = 4394cc

Maximum output = 489PS/6000rpm

Maximum torque = 650Nm/1600-5000rpm

Motor output = 197PS

Maximum motor torque = 280Nm/1000-5000rpm

Maximum system output = 480kW (653PS)

Maximum system torque = 800Nm (81.6kgm)

Transmission = Electronically controlled 8-speed AT

Drive method = AWD

Maximum speed = 250km/h (limited)

Acceleration from 0 to 100km/h = 3.8 seconds

Two machines suited to very different environments

In stark contrast to the rugged exterior, the interior of the G 580 with EQ Technology features the latest generation cockpit with two 12.3-inch displays. Luxurious chrome trim is placed in various areas, and blue ambient lighting highlights the fact that it is Mercedes’ latest electric model.

The BMW XM cockpit features the BMW Curved Display, a familiar sight in the latest generation of BMWs, with a 12.3-inch instrument panel and a 14.9-inch control display arranged side-by-side. Exclusive vintage-style leather creates a classic atmosphere, and the luxurious interior, including diamond-shaped headrests, highlights the pinnacle of M.

While the BMW XM excels at high-speed cruising, the G 580 with EQ technology is designed for serious rough road driving. The BMW XM also boasts a range of 102.6 km in EV mode, so if you don’t have a convenient charging environment, the convenience of a PHEV is hard to give up. What’s more, the BMW XM has a price tag that is more than 5 million yen lower than the G 580 with EQ technology.