Lexus GX vs Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Value retention, real cost and monthly money, compared on the same 2026 South African data.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class wins on money kept: 77% retained after three years vs 59%, worth about R 1 631 028 at trade-in time.
Both curves, one chart
Head to head
| GX | G-Class | |
|---|---|---|
| New price (from) | R 1 856 600 | R 3 557 169 |
| ±Monthly instalment | R 32 450/m | R 62 174/m |
| Retained after 1 year | 79% | 89% |
| Retained after 3 years | 59% | 77% |
| Value after 3 years | R 1 097 618 | R 2 728 646 |
| Lost to depreciation (3y) | R 758 982 | R 828 523 |
| Value after 5 years | R 802 358 | R 2 307 016 |
| Our tier | Premium (established) | Legendary retainer |
Lexus GX →
The third-generation GX is the first to be sold in South Africa, arriving in April 2025 with a twin-turbo V6 and Land Cruiser Prado underpinnings. The Overtrail grade in particular found immediate demand and the GX quickly became one of Lexus SA's strongest sellers. Its Toyota ladder-frame bones give it firmer residuals than typical luxury SUVs.
Known for: prado-based luxury off-roader
Mercedes-Benz G-Class →
Mercedes' military-derived off-roader returned to the official SA line-up in the early 2010s and demand has often outstripped supply, especially for the AMG G63. Waiting lists have kept used prices unusually strong, with low-mileage G63s at times trading close to new price. The G450d offers the same body with saner running costs.
Known for: g63 status and waiting lists
Common questions
Which holds value better, the Lexus GX or the Mercedes-Benz G-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class. It keeps about 77% of its price after three years against 59% for the Lexus GX, a gap of 18 points.
Which is cheaper to own over three years?
Depreciation is the biggest ownership cost. The Lexus GX loses about R 758 982 over three years and the Mercedes-Benz G-Class loses about R 828 523. Fuel, insurance and servicing can narrow or widen that, but the depreciation gap is the number to start from.
What do they cost per month?
On typical finance (10% deposit, 72 months, 11.75%), the Lexus GX runs about R 32 450 per month and the Mercedes-Benz G-Class about R 62 174, before fees and insurance.
Keep going
Modelled estimates on a retail basis; spec levels and real transaction prices vary.