New Range Rover vs BMW iX vs Mercedes G-Class: verdict

Our verdict 

Objectively, the G-Class is hard to recommend, because, aside from its rock-solid interior, lofty driving position and rugged off-road ability, it lags behind its rivals in almost every way. But while it comes last, it’s still endearing for the sense of adventure it instils.

The iX, meanwhile, is a very convincing luxury SUV, offering class-leading refinement while also being the most rewarding of our trio to drive. However, it misses out on the top spot because it’s not quite as spacious in the rear as the Range Rover and has a smaller boot. The interior, while modern-looking, is also missing that final layer of plushness.

So, the Range Rover takes the spoils. Although most of the improvements over the previous model are only small, it delivers all the space, comfort and plushness that buyers expect while still being even better over rough terrain than the G-Class. It’ll tackle whatever you throw at it with ease while keeping its occupants in splendid, stress-free isolation.

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1st - Range Rover

For Most capable off road; supple ride; comfiest for rear passengers; cheapest to buy on a PCP; biggest boot
Against A few so-so materials and switches inside; some wind noise
Recommended options 24-way front seats and heated/ cooled rear seats (£1300), electric rear blinds (£550)

What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5

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2nd - BMW iX

For Incredibly quiet; most agile handling; strongest performance; cheapest to run for company car drivers
Against Least commanding driving position; interior less plush than rivals’
Recommended options Interior Design Loft – Stone Grey (£450)

What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5

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3rd - Mercedes G-Class

For Sturdy interior; lofty driving position and great visibility; wonderful feelgood factor
Against Most expensive to buy and run; lumpy ride; least refined; awkward boot access in tight spaces
Recommended options None

What Car? rating 2 stars out of 5

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Specifications: Range Rover D350 HSE

Engine 6cyl, 2997cc, diesel
Peak power 345bhp at 4000rpm
Peak torque 516Ib ft at 1500-3000rpm
Gearbox 8-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.6sec
30-70mph 6.1sec
Top speed 145mph
30-0mph 9.5m
70-0mph 52.1m
Noise at 30mph 58.6db
Noise at 70mph 64.9db
Kerb weight 2505kg
Tyre size (std) 285/45 R22 
Fuel tank 80 litres
CO2 emissions 207g/km

Specifications: BMW iX xDrive50 M Sport Edition

Engine Two electric motors
Peak power 516bhp
Peak torque 564lb ft
Gearbox 1-speed automatic
0-60mph 4.4sec
30-70mph 3.6sec
Top speed 124mph
30-0mph 8.9m
70-0mph 46.8m
Noise @ 30mph 56.7dB
Noise @ 70mph 62.9dB
Kerb weight 2585kg
Wheels and tyres (std) 250/50 R21
Real-world range (est) 284miles
Official range 380 miles
Efficiency on test 2.7 miles/kWh
Peak charging rate 195kW
7kW home wallbox (0-100%) 16hr 45min 
Rapid charger, peak rate (10-80%) 31min
CO2 emissions 0g/km

Specifications: Mercedes G-Class 400d AMG Line Premium Plus

Engine 6cyl, 2925cc, diesel
Peak power 325bhp at 3600-4200rpm
Peak torque 516Ib ft at 1200-3200rpm
Gearbox 9-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.3sec
30-70mph 6.0sec
Top speed 130mph
30-0mph 9.7m
70-0mph 51.2m
Noise at 30mph 58.8db
Noise at 70mph 67.0db
Kerb weight 2489kg
Tyre size (std) 275/50 R20 
Fuel tank 100 litres
CO2 emissions 289g/km

Test weather conditions Dry

Cars pictured

BMW iX xDrive50 M Sport Edition with Aventurine Red metallic paint (£1890), Clear&Bold Interior Application (£1050), 22in Bi-colour Air Performance alloy wheels (£1000) and Titan Bronze exterior trim (£550)

Mercedes-Benz G400d AMG Line Premium Plus with Periclase Green metallic paint and G Manufaktur Package with macchiato beige/espresso brown Designo Nappa extended leather (£7995)

Range Rover D350 HSE with Batumi Gold premium metallic paint (£865), SV Meridian Signature Sound System (£4435), bespoke full extended leather upgrade (£1500), Natural Back Birch veneer (£770), sliding panoramic roof (£545) and black brake calipers (£305)

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