Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Record sales in 2025 despite global brand decline
Mercedes-Benz G-Class: The Off-Road King Defies Market Logic with a Historic Record in 2025
While the global automotive industry is going through a period of realignment of priorities, there is one model that seems immune to economic fluctuations or changing consumer preferences: the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The legendary “G-Wagen” proved in 2025 that it is more than just an off-road vehicle; it is a cultural phenomenon that continues to push its own boundaries.
A statistical paradox: Global decline, record for the G-Class
2025 was a challenging year for the Stuttgart-based giant. Mercedes-Benz reported global sales of 1,800,800 units, a 9% decline from the previous year. However, in this cautious landscape, the G-Class unexpectedly shone.
The German model has set an all-time sales record in its 47-year history, with a total of 49,700 units delivered worldwide. This figure represents a spectacular increase of 23% compared to 2024. The success was fueled by the launch of the new electric version, the G 580 with EQ technology, which, despite initial rumors of a difficult debut, has attracted a new category of customers eager for sustainable luxury without sacrificing legendary off-road ability.
What's next for the "G-Wagen"?
- 2026: The four-door convertible (Cabriolet) returns, a configuration that has not been present in the range since 2017.
- 2027: Mercedes-Benz is preparing a "Baby G", a more compact and affordable variant, intended to bring the model's DNA to a wider audience.
The G-Class Phenomenon in Romania: From Social Status to Pure Performance
In Romania, the G-Class is not just a car, but a status statement. The model's success on the local market followed the global trend, contributing significantly to Mercedes-Benz Romania's figures, which reported in recent years that the "Top-End Luxury" segment (which includes the G-Class, S-Class and Maybach) represents over 25% of total sales.
Prices and configurations on the Romanian market
If you want to join the "G family" in Romania, the necessary budget is one that is commensurate with the exclusivity:
- Diesel/Petrol versions: Prices generally start at around EUR 130,000 – 140,000 for the basic variants (G 450 d or G 500) and can exceed EUR 200,000 for the high-performance AMG G 63.
- G 580 Electric (EQ): The new electric model has a starting price in Romania of approximately EUR 143,600, while the limited launch edition, Edition One, reaches over EUR 193,000.
Who is the competition?
Although the G-Class occupies an almost singular niche due to its timeless design, on the Romanian market it fights for customer attention with a few big names:
- Land Rover Defender: The main rival when it comes to off-road capabilities and rugged image, with a slightly more affordable starting price.
- Range Rover: The choice of those who prioritize ultimate comfort and refinement, often seen as the "softer" alternative to the harshness of the G-Class.
- BMW XM: While not a pure off-road vehicle, it appeals to customers looking for a luxury SUV with polarizing design and massive road presence.
Why is it successful among Romanians?
The success of the G-Class in Romania can be explained by a combination of psychological and practical factors. First, the extremely high resale value and slow depreciation make the G-Class a safer financial investment than other luxury SUVs.
Secondly, its ability to go over potholes, curbs or unpaved roads with disarming ease, combined with the S-Class interior, makes it the ideal vehicle for Romania's diverse infrastructure. Last but not least, the MANUFAKTUR program (through which customers can customize their car in thousands of combinations) is extremely popular among Romanian buyers who want a unique vehicle.