For many enthusiasts, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class represents the ultimate dream daily driver—the kind of vehicle people imagine themselves owning if they ever struck it rich. However, while the gas-powered versions of the G-Wagen remain highly desirable, the newly introduced electric G580 with EQ technology hasn’t quite captured the same level of enthusiasm. Sales traction appears softer than Mercedes expected, and the company is now taking measures to spark customer interest.
According to a recent dealer bulletin, Mercedes has authorized retailers to offer incentives of up to $9,500 on the G580 EQ during the month of August. This represents a $2,000 increase compared to the $7,500 incentive offered just last month. To put that into perspective, the discount alone is more than the full sticker price of an entire BYD Seagull EV in China. In addition to purchase incentives, Mercedes is also cutting lease costs by offering promotional lease rates, lowering the APR to 4.3 percent.
Industry sources such as CarsDirect suggest that the timing of these deals is no coincidence. Mercedes is likely attempting to clear inventory and boost demand before federal EV tax credits are phased out in September. While the G580 EQ doesn’t qualify for federal rebates if purchased outright—owing to its high retail price and overseas production—the situation changes with leases. By leasing, customers can effectively take advantage of the credits through Mercedes’ incentive programs, making the vehicle more financially appealing.
Still, even a nearly five-figure discount has to be viewed in context. The G580 EQ starts at $162,650, which remains far from affordable for the average buyer. It also costs around $13,000 more than the gasoline-powered G550, a model many consumers still prefer. Importantly, neither the G550 nor the range-topping AMG G63 (priced at $187,250) qualifies for the EV incentives, leaving the electric G-Class as the sole beneficiary of these aggressive offers.
From a design perspective, the G580 EQ stays true to the iconic G-Wagen formula, offering the same boxy silhouette and even adding party tricks like “tank turn” capability, which lets the SUV spin in place. However, as an EV, it comes with serious compromises. The vehicle tips the scales at a massive 3,085 kilograms, and its upright, rugged shape is far from aerodynamic. Even with a 116 kWh battery and a powerful 579 hp output, the official EPA-rated range is only 385 kilometers. Reports suggest a revised battery arriving in 2026 could extend that figure by at least 160 kilometers, but early adopters will have to accept the shorter range for now.
For those who are willing to overlook these shortcomings and have the financial means, leasing may be the most attractive option. CarsDirect notes that customers can currently get into a G580 EQ on a 36-month, 58,000 km lease for $1,869 per month. After factoring in the $14,613 due at signing, the effective monthly cost comes to about $2,275. While certainly steep, for wealthy buyers seeking exclusivity and the cachet of driving an electric G-Wagen, this could be the right time to make the move.