Halloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix NowHalloween DealsAmazon USOctober picks are moving - compare before checkoutAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Get listed

4x4 comparison10 MIN

Electric Mercedes G-Class vs. Rivian R1S: Which Is Better Off Road?

The Rivian R1S posts higher published clearance, approach, departure and fording figures, while the Mercedes G 580 brings LOW RANGE, four individually controlled motors and G-specific off-road modes. Here is what those numbers mean on real trails.

By CarCody Team

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

On published dimensions, the Rivian R1S has the edge: its maximum ground clearance and approach and departure angles exceed the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology’s manual figures, and Rivian lists a deeper maximum water-fording height. The electric G-Class counters with hardware and software aimed specifically at slow, technical driving: four individually controlled motors, selectable LOW RANGE, torque-vectoring behavior designed to emulate differential locks, G-TURN, G-STEERING and an off-road crawl mode.

That is not a proven head-to-head victory for either vehicle. The figures come from different manufacturers, measurement conventions and vehicle configurations, and no standardized independent trail test establishes a universal winner. Choose the R1S for the strongest published geometry and seven-seat practicality; choose the G 580 when low-range control and G-specific maneuvering functions matter most.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Quick comparison

Measure Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology Rivian R1S What it means
Ground clearance 233 mm (9.2 in) minimum, from the 2024 September operator’s manual, measured at permissible gross vehicle weight Up to 14.7 in maximum on Rivian’s current comparison page The R1S figure is higher, but minimum and maximum values are not an identical measurement.
Approach angle 32.0° Up to 35.8° Rivian publishes the larger maximum.
Departure angle 30.7° Up to 34.4° Rivian publishes the larger maximum.
Water fording 850 mm (about 33.5 in), according to Mercedes-Benz press material and the manual 43.0 in maximum, conditional on suspension and wheel size Rivian’s listed height is greater, but neither number is a recommendation for a particular crossing.
Gradeability Up to 100% with LOW RANGE and suitable traction conditions No comparable official gradeability figure identified An absent R1S number does not prove an inability to climb a given grade.
Side-slope stability Mercedes-Benz states stability up to 35° No comparable official value identified These are maker claims, not a shared test.
Drive and control hardware Four individually controlled electric motors, LOW RANGE, torque-vectoring differential-lock behavior, G-TURN, G-STEERING and crawl mode Quad, Tri and Dual configurations; equipment and software vary by version The exact R1S build matters as much as the model name.
Seating Not established in the cited Mercedes material Seven seats listed on Rivian’s comparison page The R1S is the more clearly documented family option.

The table combines a 2024 Mercedes-Benz manual and press information with Rivian pages accessed in 2026. Treat every value as a manufacturer-published specification for a stated configuration, not as a laboratory comparison.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How the electric G-Class approaches off-road driving

Four motors and wheel-by-wheel control

The G 580 uses four electric motors, one for each wheel, with a stated maximum total output of 432 kW. Independent motor control lets the vehicle vary torque at each wheel without a conventional mechanical axle differential. Mercedes-Benz describes this as torque-vectoring behavior that can reproduce the effect of differential locks. On a loose climb or a cross-axle obstacle, the control system can reduce spin at a lightly loaded wheel while continuing to drive wheels with grip.

#1 Best Overall
Sale
LISEN Retractable Car Charger, 84W Car Charger USB C Fast Charge, 4 in 1 | Cigarette Lighter Adapter, Car Accessories, for Christmas Day Gifts for Men Women Dad Mom, for iPhone 18 Pro Max 17 16 15 14
  • Never Let a Dead Battery Ruin Your Drive. The LISEN 4 in 1 Retractable Car Charger delivers reliable power for your entire journey. Compatible with standard 12V cigarette lighter sockets, it keeps phones, tablets, and devices charged during daily commutes, road trips, and long drives — the perfect practical gift for dads, truck drivers, and anyone who lives on the road.
  • Daily Driver Essential: Always Ready When You Need It. Featuring two retractable cables ( USB C & Old iPhone Charging Cable ) that extend up to 31.5 inches and dual USB ports, this charger solves cable clutter while charging up to 4 devices simultaneously. Ideal for busy fathers, commuters, and families who want a tidy car and never worry about low battery again.
  • Deliver full-speed PD fast charging for iPhone 18 Pro Max & iPhone 18 Pro Max & iPhone 18 Pro right inside your car. The built-in 45W PD USB-C port hits the peak charging speed for these latest iPhone models, juicing up your phone to 50% power in just 15 minutes while you drive.(Note: Maximum 45W PD output is available under 24V vehicle power supply. When used with standard 12V car sockets, the peak output is limited to 36W.)
  • Standard 12V Power Solution: Designed as a dedicated USB power supply for charging devices. Note: Does NOT support CarPlay, Bluetooth, or data transfer. Compatible with most phones, tablets, and small electronics. This retractable charger is a core car organization tool, keeping your vehicle tidy. Not compatible with Micro-USB devices.
  • Clutter-Free Tech Organization: Featuring dual USB ports and retractable cables, the LISEN 4 in 1 charger provides a clean car storage solution. Perfect for truck enthusiasts or as a thoughtful gift for drivers, it supports fast USB-C charging for devices like the iPhone 18Pro & iPhone 18 ProMax. Keep your vehicle organized while ensuring efficient power delivery for all your tech on the road.

This arrangement is different from simply fitting a larger battery or a more powerful single motor. It gives the control software a direct way to manage left-right and front-rear torque at low speed. The benefit depends on calibration, tire grip, available traction and the driver’s selected mode; motor count alone does not guarantee superior performance on every surface.

LOW RANGE for technical terrain

A selectable LOW RANGE is the G 580’s clearest hardware advantage in this comparison. Low gearing lets the vehicle move slowly with more precise accelerator control and less dependence on high motor speed. It is useful when placing a tire on a rock ledge, descending a steep step or holding a walking pace without repeatedly using the brake pedal.

Mercedes-Benz states up to 100% gradeability when LOW RANGE and good traction conditions are present. A 100% grade is a 45-degree incline, but the claim is conditional: surface grip, tire condition, vehicle load and the approach to the slope all matter. It should not be read as permission to attempt any 45-degree hill.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

G-TURN, G-STEERING and crawl mode

G-TURN commands the motors to rotate the vehicle around a tight point, reducing the number of multi-point turns in a confined area. G-STEERING applies a similar idea to steering through tight bends by managing torque at individual wheels. These functions can be valuable on narrow rock trails or switchbacks, but they require room around the vehicle, a suitable surface and careful observation of obstacles.

An off-road crawl mode automates low-speed progress so the driver can concentrate on steering and line choice. It is an aid, not a substitute for a spotter. The driver remains responsible for wheel placement, underbody clearance and stopping if a tire starts to slide.

Rank #2
SINGARO Car Cup Holder Coaster, Silicone Cup Holder Insert, Universal Non-Slip Cup Holders, Car Accessories Interior for Women and Man Interior Sets 4 Pack Black
  • High Quality Material: The coaster is made of environmentally friendly silicone, safe, non-toxic and odorless. Soft with toughness, easily embedded in the cup holder. Very durable, wear-resistant, long service life. High temperature resistance, can withstand 100 ℃ high temperature water cups.
  • Wide Compatibility: The coaster has a diameter of 3.15 inches and a height of 1.18 inches, which is widely used in most vehicles, such as SUV, sedan, MPV, etc., as long as the size fits your car cup holder.
  • Protection Function: Our car cup holder coaster has a carry handle design and a stand-up ring edge on its edge to effectively prevent food crumbs, drinks and water from leaking out and preventing the car cup holder from getting dirty.Meanwhile,Thickened design effectively prevents the cup holder from being scratched by the cup when driving on bumpy roads and eliminates the annoying thumping sound, making your journey more enjoyable.
  • Easy to Use and Clean: With embedded installation, you just need to put it flat on the car cupholder. It is also very quick to remove, there is a small bump on the coaster, pinch it and you can easily remove the coaster. It is very easy to clean, rinse with water or wipe with a wet towel (be careful not to clean with sharp tools).
  • 100% Satisfaction: Our products have quality assurance, if you have questions or are not satisfied after receiving the product, don't worry, please contact us as soon as possible, we provide after-sales service.

How the Rivian R1S approaches off-road driving

Different R1S versions are materially different

Rivian lists Quad, Tri and Dual R1S variants. Motor count, power delivery, suspension calibration, wheel and tire packages and available software can vary among them. A comparison that simply says “R1S” can therefore hide meaningful differences in ride height and traction behavior.

Rivian’s published geometry numbers are maximum values. The vehicle may achieve them only in a particular suspension setting and with a specified wheel and tire combination. Before buying or planning a trip, identify the exact model, drive configuration, wheel diameter and software version. Confirm the current owner’s information for the build rather than applying the highest number on a general comparison page to every R1S.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Useful advantages beyond geometry

The R1S is listed with seven seats, making it easier to carry a full family to a trailhead than a vehicle whose seating specification is not established in the cited G 580 material. Rivian also lists an off-road recovery kit as an accessory category. That listing confirms the relevance of recovery equipment, not that any particular kit is compatible with every R1S or with the G-Class.

The available sources do not provide a directly comparable R1S gradeability or side-slope figure, nor do they document a feature-by-feature trail test against the G 580. Do not treat the absence of a number as a negative result; it simply limits what can be compared from published material.

Geometry: where the R1S leads on paper

Clearance and approach angle

Ground clearance determines how easily the center of the vehicle passes over a ridge, rock or deep rut. Approach angle determines how steep an obstacle can be before the front bumper or underbody touches. Rivian’s maximum values are higher than the G 580’s manual figures, so the R1S should have more margin when both vehicles meet the same sharp rise in their favorable suspension settings.

Rank #3
Kaistyle for Magsafe Car Mount【Strong Magnet】 Magnetic Phone Holder for Car Phone Holder Mount Dash Mounted Holders Phone Holders for Your Car Accessories for Women Men for iPhone 18 Pro Max 17 16 15
  • ✅【Designed for Magsafe】 - The most fashionable iphone car mount in 2026 Magsafe is designed for iPhone 18 Pro Max/17/16/15/14/13/12 Pro Max Mini and official Magsafe cases and other magnetic phone cases and can be fixed directly to these phones without the need to affix metal plates. All Android Phones Will Work: Metal rings are provided; they fit cases and other phones without magsafe. Based on Unique Grandmaster Design (Protected by US Design Patent No. US D1,112,194 S)
  • ✅【STRONG MAGNETIC MagSafe Car Mount】 - This powerful magnetic phone holder can create a powerful attraction that firmly supports your device while allowing you to drive without distraction. it easily and securely holds your phone through bumps, sharp turns or even sudden stops, no worrying of dropping your phone.
  • ✅【SUPER STICK FORCE】 - VHB Dash Mounted Holders adhesive provides strong stick force between the dashboard and the car phone holder, which can firmly stick to any plane in the car, fix your device, adapt to a variety of road conditions such as sudden braking, speed bump, and rugged mountain road.
  • ✅【SAFE DRIVING VIEW】 - Mini-size, not taking up space, it is placed in the dashboard without blocking the view at all, and does not need to look down at the device to ensure your safe driving. Cell Phone Car Mount is suitable for most cars, pickups, SUV, taxi; It is the best assistant for Uber and Lyft drivers
  • ✅【360° FREE ROTATION】 - With an adjustable swivel ball joint, you can rotate your smartphone or device at your own will, providing the best viewing angle. Quickly pick and place with one hand, free your hands and make calls and GPS navigation more convenient

There is an important measurement qualification. Mercedes gives a minimum clearance for a vehicle at permissible gross vehicle weight, while Rivian gives a maximum. Passengers, cargo, tire pressure, wheel choice and suspension mode can reduce the usable clearance of either vehicle. Comparing the headline numbers as if they were measured at the same load and ride height overstates the precision of the difference.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Departure angle and breakover

A larger departure angle helps the rear of the vehicle clear a ledge when descending. The R1S also has the larger published departure figure. Neither source in this comparison establishes a directly equivalent breakover angle, tire contact patch or underbody protection specification, so those factors remain open questions for a real trail decision.

Water crossings

Rivian lists a maximum R1S fording height of 43.0 inches, conditional on suspension and wheel size, with all doors and storage spaces fully closed. Rivian says not to open the vehicle while fording. Mercedes lists 850 mm for the G 580 and limits that value to slow travel through standing water.

Mercedes warns that exceeding its limit, creating a bow wave or allowing water to accumulate can let water enter the engine compartment or interior; flowing water lowers the permissible depth. The same practical rule applies to both vehicles: a published maximum is a design or operating limit under stated conditions, not a safe target for an unknown stream. Stop and assess depth, current, entry and exit surfaces, weather and the possibility of recovery before committing.

Which vehicle suits common trail situations?

Rock steps and cross-axle obstacles

The R1S’s higher listed clearance and angles provide more geometric margin at a ledge. The G 580’s individually controlled motors, LOW RANGE and torque-vectoring functions provide explicit tools for creeping over an obstacle while keeping wheel speed low. On a trail where the line is tight and traction changes wheel by wheel, the G-Class controls may matter more than a few degrees of approach angle. On a route with repeated sharp crests, the R1S’s published geometry can reduce contact risk.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #4
YGDMD 2PCS Car Seat Gap Filler Organizer,2 in 1 Car Gap Filler (Black) | Multifunctional Design,Fill and Storage Function for Storing Phones Keys Cards,No Drop Seat Guard for Cars Suvs Trucks
  • Buyer's Guide: The seat guard for car seat between seat & console measures 15.75*2.7*1.53", suitable for gaps of 1.43-1.53" in width, please double-check carefully the distance between your seat and the center console before placing an order
  • Storage and Filling in One: Differ from traditional single-function gap fillers, gap filler for car incorporates storage function, offers you the convenience of storing phones and various other items, so that you can access them at any time while driving
  • Avoid Items Slipping: With the bumps and vibrations of the car, phones, keys may fall into the seat crevices, which is difficult to pick up, and distracts the driver's attention. Car gap seat filler fills gaps seamlessly to create an effective barrier
  • Easy to Install: Car side seat gap filler is easy to install, simply insert it into the gap between the seat and the center console, gap seat filler for car can fit tightly without affecting the normal adjustment of the seat and the use of the seat belt
  • Premium Material: Crafted from premium EVA material, our car seat side gap filler boasts a combination of wear-resistant, softness&durability. Maintenance is effortless, simply rinse and wipe to quickly clean the dust and debris in corners and crevices

Steep climbs and descents

The G 580 is the only vehicle here with a published gradeability figure and an explicit LOW RANGE selection. That makes its operating envelope easier to describe, although the claim remains conditional on traction and vehicle setup. The R1S may perform strongly on a climb, but the cited material does not establish an equivalent percentage, so a buyer should not assign one by inference.

Side slopes

Mercedes-Benz states that the G 580 remains stable on a side slope up to 35 degrees. No equivalent official R1S value is established in the cited sources. A side-slope number is not a target: camber, loose material, tire pressure, cargo height and abrupt steering inputs can reduce stability before a published limit is reached.

Mud, snow and loose gravel

Neither vehicle has a universal advantage based on the supplied specifications. Tire design, pressure, temperature, surface moisture, driver inputs and software calibration often decide whether a vehicle maintains momentum. Select a tire suited to the terrain, avoid wheelspin and use a recovery plan. A higher clearance figure cannot compensate for tires that cannot generate longitudinal grip.

Family trips and remote travel

The R1S’s listed seven-seat layout favors transporting more passengers. The G 580’s 116 kWh usable battery and up to 473 km WLTP range are Mercedes-Benz figures; WLTP is a standardized road-cycle result, not a prediction of trail range. Off-road speed, elevation, cold weather, tire pressure and accessory loads can materially reduce energy available between charging stops. The cited material does not establish a directly comparable R1S range under the same test.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

How to compare the exact vehicles before buying

  1. Identify the build. Record the G 580 market and model year, or the R1S Dual, Tri or Quad version, wheel size, tire specification and software level.
  2. Confirm operating dimensions. Check the relevant owner’s manual for clearance, water limits and permitted loads. Use the R1S suspension setting that will actually be selected on the trail, not only its highest advertised setting.
  3. Account for load. Add passengers, recovery equipment, roof accessories and cargo. The Mercedes clearance value is specified at permissible gross vehicle weight, and either vehicle can sit lower when loaded.
  4. Inspect the trail. Measure or estimate obstacle height, water depth, current, entry and exit angles and turning space. A route that fits the published geometry can still be impassable because of a soft exit or hidden rock.
  5. Plan charging and recovery. Map charging locations for the road approach and return, then carry recovery gear rated for the vehicle’s mass. Verify recovery-point compatibility and the instructions for attaching equipment; a generic kit is not automatically suitable.
  6. Practice controls first. Learn LOW RANGE, crawl, G-TURN or G-STEERING, and the R1S drive modes on a safe, open surface. Understand how each system cancels, brakes or responds before using it near an obstacle.

Recovery and water-safety checklist

  • Use a recovery kit with a rated strap or rope, soft shackles where approved, gloves and a way to communicate with a second vehicle.
  • Confirm the vehicle’s designated recovery points and maximum permitted recovery load in the owner’s manual. Do not attach to suspension, bumpers or an unapproved tow point.
  • Walk a water crossing when conditions permit. Check depth at the deepest line, current speed, submerged holes and the firmness of the exit.
  • Keep doors, windows and storage compartments closed during a crossing. For the R1S, Rivian specifically says not to open the vehicle while fording.
  • Enter standing water slowly enough to avoid a bow wave. Flowing water can reduce the permissible depth and can move a heavy vehicle sideways.
  • Abort if the surface, current or exit is different from your assessment. A winch or second vehicle cannot eliminate the risk of electrical, interior or drivetrain damage.

What the specifications do—and do not—prove

The R1S has the stronger published geometry and fording figures in this comparison. That is a narrow, supportable conclusion about manufacturer numbers. It does not prove that every R1S will clear every obstacle more easily than every G 580, because the R1S figures depend on setup and the Mercedes figure is a minimum at a stated load.

Best Value
Stacool Upgraded Car Center Console Cover,Microfiber Leather Car Armrest Cover Cushion with 2 Storage Bags,Universal Car Armrest Storage Box (Black)
  • 🔰 UPGRADED SIDE STORAGE DESIGN - Our console cover is thinner than the old one, universal for all seasons. There is an 8.66*5.12 inch storage pocket design on each left and right side, expanding the storage space, convenient and practical. Meet the storage needs of the main passenger seat, you can store your cell phone, keys, tissues, ID and some other small daily items.
  • 🔰 PREMIUM MICROFIBER LEATHER MATERIAL - This car center console cover is made of quality microfiber leather material, soft and skin-friendly touch. Exquisite and fashionable diamond shaped stitching, every detail is in place. Inside the car center console cover is made of thickened memory foam, even after squeezing, it can slowly recover to its original shape.
  • 🔰 RELIEVE DRIVING FATIGUE - The arm rest cover for car adopts ergonomic design, giving just the right amount of arm support, effectively dispersing elbow pressure and relieving driving fatigue. Protect your car's center console from getting dirty or scratched. Especially suitable for long time driving or long distance traveling, bringing you a new experience of relaxation and comfort!
  • 🔰 NON-DESTRUCTIVE INSTALLATION - This car console cover is designed with an elastic band for a firm fit and not easy to shake. And the back side is full of protruding dots, which can effectively avoid the armrest cover from slipping and shifting. All you need to do is to open the center console cover, put the elastic band directly into the cover and then close it.
  • 🔰 BUYER'S GUIDE - You will receive a car armrest storage box with the size of 12.13*7.80 inch, please measure the size of your car's armrest storage box before you buy. We have prepared five simple and beautiful colors for you, you can choose according to your own preferences. Suitable for most of the vehicles on the market, such as car, truck, SUV, RV, van, etc.

The G 580 has the more explicit low-speed toolkit: selectable LOW RANGE, four motors with individual control, virtual differential-lock behavior, G-TURN, G-STEERING and crawl mode. Those functions could make a difference on technical terrain even when the R1S has more clearance. Their effectiveness still depends on tires, traction, driver technique and the exact software and equipment installed.

The evidence available for this comparison consists of Mercedes-Benz manufacturer material, a Mercedes operator’s manual and Rivian’s current comparison and FAQ pages. It does not include a standardized independent head-to-head trail test, common tire pressures, equal payloads or matching weather and surfaces. Repair costs, long-term reliability and real-world charging performance are likewise not established here.

Verdict: choose by trail priority, not badge

Choose the Rivian R1S if your priority is the greatest published obstacle geometry, a higher listed fording height under Rivian’s conditions, and seven-seat utility. Specify the exact motor, wheel, tire and suspension combination, because the maximum figures do not apply identically to every R1S.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Choose the Mercedes-Benz G 580 if your priority is deliberate, low-speed control on technical trails. LOW RANGE, four individually controlled motors, torque-vectoring differential-lock behavior and G-specific turning and crawl functions give it a distinctive operating approach. Mercedes also publishes conditional gradeability and side-slope figures that are not matched in the cited R1S material.

For a buyer who runs varied terrain, the honest answer is conditional: the R1S wins the specification sheet for clearance, angles and fording, while the G 580 offers the more specialized control package. Neither is established as the universal real-world off-road winner without a controlled, same-condition trail test.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

4x4 comparisonelectric SUVsground clearanceMercedes-Benz G 580off-roadRivian R1Swater fording

Read next

Thanks for visiting Carcody

Carcody.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.co

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.