The Land Rover Defender, Lexus LX and Range Rover are some of the best alternatives to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class in India. The G-Class is one such vehicle that is peerless and is able to blend old-style off-roading prowess and fabulous looks along with extreme luxury and is qualified to be called an extremely luxurious vehicle.
The current G-Class range in India consists of the diesel-powered G 450d and the performance-focused Mercedes-AMG G 63. Both retain the model’s ladder-frame construction, permanent all-wheel drive and three locking differentials. The G 450d is the long-distance diesel choice, while the G 63 adds a powerful V8 and much stronger performance. The Defender, Lexus LX and Range Rover challenge this formula through better value, greater seating flexibility or stronger luxury.
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
- The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is currently priced from approximately ₹2.90 crore to ₹3.74 crore ex-showroom in India.
- The G 450d uses a 3.0-litre mild-hybrid diesel producing around 367 hp and 750 Nm.
- The AMG G 63 gets a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 mild-hybrid petrol engine producing around 585 hp and 850 Nm.
- Both G-Class variants use a 9-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive.
- The G 450d has a claimed global WLTP mileage figure of approximately 11.23 km/l.
- The Land Rover Defender is the strongest alternative for buyers seeking more body styles, seating choices and a wider range of powertrains.
- The Lexus LX is a strong alternative for buyers wanting a large body-on-frame luxury SUV with a powerful diesel engine, sophisticated suspension and a more comfort-oriented cabin.
- The Range Rover is the best choice for buyers who prioritise ride quality, rear-seat comfort and flagship luxury over the G-Class’s rugged character.
- Buyers comparing these SUVs should look beyond price and consider whether performance, passenger comfort, off-road use or long-term ownership matters most.
Price and Mileage Comparison with Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The G-Class is considered a high-end luxury SUV in the Indian market. On the other hand, the Defender has a lower starting point, although both vehicles are nearly in the same price range if we take into consideration the flagship OCTA version of the SUV. The Lexus LX starts just below the G 450d model,l and its price extends slightly lower than the G-Class SUV, while the Range Rover broadly overlaps with the G-Class variants.
The G 450d’s 11.23 km/l figure is based on the global WLTP cycle rather than Indian ARAI certification. Directly comparable figures are not consistently published for every Lexus LX and Range Rover version.
| Car | Ex-showroom Price Range | Fuel Options | Mileage |
| Mercedes-Benz G-Class | ₹2.90–3.74 crore | Diesel, Petrol | G 450d: 11.23 km/l WLTP |
| Land Rover Defender | ₹1.03–2.62 crore | Petrol, Diesel | Up to approx. 10.8 km/l |
| Lexus LX | ₹2.81–2.93 crore | Diesel | Official comparable figure not consistently listed |
| Range Rover | ₹2.40–3.83 crore+ | Petrol, Diesel | Official comparable figure not consistently listed |
Prices are approximate ex-showroom figures and may vary with model year, body style, powertrain and future revisions.
Top Alternatives of Mercedes-Benz G-Class in India
Land Rover Defender
The closest competitor to the G-Class is the Land Rover Defender, as both vehicles are SUVs, which are incredibly capable on the off-road track. However, the greatest advantage of the Defender is that buyers get to choose between several different models. The Defender is available in three models – the 90, 110 and 130, while the number of seats in each model is between five and eight.
The Defender also offers a much wider engine range, including petrol, diesel and V8 options. The D350 diesel develops around 350 hp and 700 Nm, while the OCTA uses a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 mild-hybrid producing approximately 635 hp and 750 Nm. All India-spec variants use an automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive.
Also Explore: Land Rover Defender Image Gallery: Interior and Exterior
Why it is better than the Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The versatility is a key benefit of the Defender. The G-Class has only one model but two powertrains to choose from. The choice in the case of the Defender is wider: buyers can pick the compact 90, the practical 110 or the new, bigger 130, depending on whether body styling or passenger and cargo capacity is essential for them. The Defender 130 has a capacity of carrying up to 8 passengers and will fit the larger family better.
It also offers a much lower entry price. A buyer can enter the Defender range at a little over ₹1 crore, substantially below the G 450d. Even well-equipped diesel and V8 versions can cost less than the base G-Class, making the Defender a strong value proposition in this rarefied segment.
The off-road capability is also an advantage of the Defender. The Terrain Response, the four-wheel drive and the air suspension system help the Defender navigate almost any challenging terrain while being comfortable on the road. The OCTA gives additional capability, making it a high-performance off-roader of up to 635 hp.
The G-Class still counters with ladder-frame construction, three locking differentials and a distinctive mechanical character. The Defender is better for versatility and value, while the G-Class remains more iconic.
Price Comparison: Land Rover Defender vs Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The Defender has enough variety in its lineup to make it fit below the G-Class. The mid-range options, like the widely used 110/130 models, are similar to those found in regular competition, including the OCTA, which is a rival to the AMG G 63.
| Variant | Land Rover Defender Price Range | Mercedes-Benz G-Class Price Range |
| Base-variant | 110 X-Dynamic HSE P300: Approx. ₹1.03 crore | G 450d: ₹2.90 crore |
| Mid-variant | 110/130 diesel and V8 variants: Approx. ₹1.3–1.7 crore | G 450d: ₹2.90 crore |
| Top-variant | OCTA / OCTA Black: Approx. ₹2.42–2.62 crore | AMG G 63: ₹3.74 crore |
Also Read: Comparison: Land Rover Defender vs Toyota Land Cruiser
Lexus LX
The Lexus LX serves as a good alternative to the G-Class for those preferring a traditional luxury full-size SUV without compromising the sturdiness of a body-on-frame vehicle. The basic structure is derived from the Toyota Land Cruiser 300, with the LX featuring superior materials, comfort technology, and Lexus luxury equipment.
The LX 500d uses a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel producing around 304 hp and 700 Nm. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. The Indian range consists of the five-seat 500d Urban and 500d Overtrail Edition, with the latter adding more off-road-focused equipment.
Why it is better than the Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The LX, however, will cater for buyers more inclined towards comfort and long-distance travel instead of performance. Its diesel engine is not as powerful as the one in the G 450d, but it offers 700 Nm of torque at low and mid-range levels, and is paired with the 10-speed automatic designed for smooth performance.
Cabin comfort is another major advantage. The LX can offer front massage seats, ventilated seating, rear entertainment screens, premium Mark Levinson audio and a more comfort-oriented interior. It feels less upright and utilitarian than the G-Class and may be more appealing to buyers who frequently undertake long highway journeys.
The suspension technology gives a different character. Active Height Control and Adaptive Variable Suspension provide the vehicle with road and terrain adjustment abilities. The Overtrail makes the model better off-road equipped, including a differential lock on the front and rear sides of the vehicle.
The LX also starts slightly below the G 450d. However, the Mercedes offers noticeably more power, stronger performance and a far more distinctive design. The AMG G 63 is in another league for acceleration and engine character. The Lexus therefore suits buyers wanting quiet luxury and rugged engineering rather than the visual drama and performance associated with a G-Class.
Price Comparison: Lexus LX vs Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The LX lineup features only two mainstream versions, hence the absence of a mid-level option. Its price is closer to that of the G 450d than the AMG G 63.
| Variant | Lexus LX Price Range | Mercedes-Benz G-Class Price Range |
| Base-variant | LX 500d Urban: ₹2.81 crore | G 450d: ₹2.90 crore |
| Mid-variant | Not offered | G 450d: ₹2.90 crore |
| Top-variant | LX 500d Overtrail: ₹2.93 crore | AMG G 63: ₹3.74 crore |
Range Rover
The Range Rover is the ultimate G-Class substitute for those looking for a premium luxury SUV, followed by a serious off-road SUV. It marries big size with four-wheel drive capability but offers a highly elaborate and comfort-oriented interior compared to the Mercedes.
Current Range Rover powertrains include the 3.0-litre D350 diesel, producing around 350 hp and 700 Nm, and the 3.0-litre P400 petrol, producing approximately 400 hp and 550 Nm. Higher versions include V8-powered models with substantially stronger performance. An 8-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive are standard across the range.
Why it is better than Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The key benefit of the Range Rover is comfort. Its air suspension offers a smoother and less rumbling ride as opposed to the firm and very upright G-Class, especially on long trips across the highway. It also has the ability to change ride height, thereby increasing accessibility and approach angle.
Rear-seat luxury is another clear advantage. Higher Range Rover trims offer extensive powered seat adjustment, premium upholstery, entertainment screens, advanced climate control and features designed around chauffeur-driven buyers. The G-Class is luxurious, but its boxy shape and traditional architecture mean it does not deliver the same limousine-like rear experience.
There is a multitude of options for either a petrol engine or a diesel engine across HSE, Autobiography and SV models. The higher SV versions use premium materials and have greater power and performance, which allows Range Rover to overlap with the G 63 price-wise.
Despite its luxury focus, it still has credible terrain ability through all-wheel drive, Terrain Response and adjustable air suspension. However, buyers planning extreme off-road use may still prefer the G-Class’s three locking differentials and traditional ladder-frame architecture.
Ultimately, it all comes down to one thing: the Range Rover excels in terms of comfort and luxury at the rear seats, while the G-Class would suit those looking for something with a touch of class, serious off-road capabilities and an AMG personality when in G 63 trim.
Also Read: Land Rover Range Rover Variants Guide: Choose the Best Variant
Price Comparison: Range Rover vs Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The Range Rover overlaps closely with the G-Class at both ends of the lineup. Its entry diesel undercuts the G 450d, while SV versions can reach or exceed AMG G 63 territory.
| Variant | Range Rover Price Range | Mercedes-Benz G-Class Price Range |
| Base-variant | HSE D350: Approx. ₹2.40 crore | G 450d: ₹2.90 crore |
| Mid-variant | Autobiography: Approx. ₹2.57 crore | G 450d: ₹2.90 crore |
| Top-variant | SV: Approx. ₹3.83 crore+ | AMG G 63: ₹3.74 crore |
Summary
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is still quite unique in its offerings, as the luxury SUV continues to provide the driver with its signature design, off-road capabilities and impressive performance. With the diesel and hybrid engine found on the G 450d providing 750 Nm of torque and the AMG G 63 boasting 585 hp and 850 Nm of torque, both use the ladder chassis and lockable differentials.
The Land Rover Defender is the best alternative for buyers seeking versatility. Its multiple body styles, wider seating choices, broad engine range and substantially lower starting price make it easier to tailor to different lifestyles. The Defender OCTA also provides a high-performance option for buyers considering the G 63.
The Lexus LX can serve as a viable alternative for buyers looking for an SUV with a body-on-frame structure, with the diesel engine of the LX ensuring its ability to cover long distances in comfort, while the Overtrail model also uses significant features for off-road driving.
The Range Rover is the strongest choice for buyers who prioritise refinement and rear-seat comfort. Its air suspension, luxurious cabin and broad engine range create a more polished experience, although it lacks some of the G-Class’s old-school mechanical character.
Ultimately, the G-Class remains the choice for buyers who want great design, serious off-road characteristics and exclusivity. The other choices may be better in terms of practicality and comfort, but no vehicle replicates its characteristics exactly.
FAQs
Q. What are the best alternatives to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class in India?
The Land Rover Defender, Lexus LX and Range Rover are among the best G-Class alternatives. The Defender offers stronger versatility and value, the Lexus LX combines luxury with body-on-frame capability, and the Range Rover focuses on comfort and refinement.
Q. Is the Lexus LX a good alternative to the G-Class?
Yes. The Lexus LX is particularly suitable for buyers wanting a large diesel-powered luxury SUV with strong off-road credentials and a more comfort-oriented cabin. It is less powerful than the G 450d but offers 700 Nm and sophisticated suspension technology.
Q. Which is cheaper, Mercedes-Benz G-Class or Land Rover Defender?
The Defender is significantly cheaper at the lower end, starting at around ₹1.03 crore compared with approximately ₹2.90 crore for the G 450d. Even the performance-focused Defender OCTA costs less than the AMG G 63 in current ex-showroom terms.
Q. Which is more luxurious, Range Rover or Mercedes-Benz G-Class?
The Range Rover generally offers a more luxurious rear-seat experience, a softer ride and more sophisticated comfort features. The G-Class instead combines luxury with a more rugged, upright design and greater emphasis on traditional off-road engineering.
Q. Which G-Class alternative is best for off-roading?
The Land Rover Defender is one of the strongest alternatives because it combines permanent four-wheel drive, Terrain Response systems and available air suspension. The Lexus LX Overtrail is also highly capable with front and rear differential locks.
Q. What is the mileage of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class?
The G 450d has a claimed global WLTP mileage figure of approximately 11.23 km/l. Real-world efficiency will vary with traffic, terrain and driving style, while the AMG G 63’s V8 is considerably more performance-focused and less economical.
