Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for an SUV that commands respect wherever it goes? The Mercedes-Benz G-Class might be exactly what you’re searching for. This iconic luxury SUV combines unmatched off-road capability with premium comfort and unmistakable presence. It’s the vehicle for those who want the ultimate in both rugged ability and refined luxury in one impressive package.

From its distinctive boxy silhouette to its commanding driving position, the G-Class stands apart from everything else on the road. While rivals like the BMW X5 or Range Rover Sport offer luxury and performance, none can match the G-Class’s unique combination of military-grade toughness and five-star hotel comfort. The interior showcases Mercedes’ finest materials and latest technology, creating a sanctuary that feels worlds away from its utilitarian origins.

Driving the G-Class is an experience unlike any other luxury SUV. Despite its imposing size and weight, it delivers surprising refinement on the road while maintaining legendary off-road prowess. The powerful engines provide effortless acceleration, while the sophisticated suspension keeps you comfortable on any surface. It’s a vehicle that makes every journey feel special, whether you’re navigating city streets or conquering mountain trails. While the price tag reflects its premium positioning, you’re investing in automotive icon status and uncompromising capability.

What's the Mercedes-Benz G-Class Like to Drive?

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is engineered to deliver exceptional performance both on and off the road. The current lineup features powerful engines, including the G500 with its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 producing around 416 horsepower. This luxury SUV accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, impressive for such a substantial vehicle. The AMG variants push performance even further, with the G63 delivering extraordinary acceleration that rivals sports cars.

Where the G-Class truly excels is in its uncompromising capability. The three differential locks and low-range gearbox enable it to tackle terrain that would stop most other luxury SUVs. On road, the adaptive suspension system provides surprisingly refined handling for such a tall, heavy vehicle. The steering is precise and confidence-inspiring, while the brakes offer strong stopping power. Modern G-Class models strike an excellent balance between comfort and control, making them surprisingly pleasant to drive daily despite their imposing dimensions.

Inside the Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Comfort & Features

Step inside the G-Class and you’re greeted by one of the finest luxury interiors in any SUV. The cabin perfectly balances rugged functionality with premium materials and cutting-edge technology. High-quality leather covers most surfaces, while genuine wood and metal trim add sophisticated touches. The dashboard features Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment system with crisp displays and intuitive voice controls. Everything from the switchgear to the door handles operates with the precision you’d expect from a premium German vehicle.

The front seats are supremely comfortable and offer extensive adjustment for the perfect driving position. Space is generous throughout, with rear passengers enjoying excellent legroom and headroom. Despite its utilitarian origins, the G-Class cabin is remarkably quiet at cruising speeds, with effective sound insulation creating a serene environment. Climate control keeps everyone comfortable regardless of conditions outside, while features like heated and ventilated seats add to the luxury experience. The overall ambience successfully combines adventure-ready durability with five-star refinement.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a remarkable achievement that successfully balances luxury refinement with serious off-road capability. It delivers an ownership experience that’s genuinely unique in the luxury SUV market, combining iconic styling with exceptional build quality and advanced technology. The interior is a masterpiece of premium materials and thoughtful design, while the powerful engines provide thrilling performance both on and off-road.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Mercedes-Benz G-Class Expensive to Run?

Owning a G-Class means accepting premium running costs that reflect its luxury positioning and powerful engines. Fuel economy is modest, with real-world consumption typically ranging from 22-25 MPG depending on driving conditions and engine variant. The powerful V8 engines prioritise performance over efficiency, so expect regular visits to the petrol station. Insurance costs are substantial due to the high purchase price and repair costs, placing most variants in the highest insurance groups.

The initial purchase price starts around £140,000 for a new G500, positioning it firmly in the luxury market. This significant investment reflects the vehicle’s exceptional build quality, advanced technology, and iconic status. Maintenance costs are higher than mainstream SUVs, though Mercedes’ reputation for engineering excellence means reliability is generally good. When considering total ownership costs, the G-Class holds its value exceptionally well, making it a sound investment for those who appreciate its unique combination of luxury and capability. Flexible car finance options can help make ownership more accessible.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Practicality & Boot Space

For such an imposing vehicle, the G-Class offers impressive practical benefits. The 667-litre boot provides ample space for luggage, sports equipment, or shopping. The rear seats fold to expand cargo capacity significantly when needed. The high driving position offers excellent visibility, making it easier to navigate tight spaces despite the vehicle’s substantial dimensions. Numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin accommodate everyday items conveniently.

Where the G-Class shows its unique character is in its genuine off-road capability. Unlike many luxury SUVs that prioritise road manners, the G-Class maintains serious adventure credentials with proper ground clearance, wading depth, and approach angles. This makes it perfect for owners who genuinely use their SUV for outdoor pursuits. For families, the spacious interior comfortably seats five adults, though the rear-hinged spare wheel carrier can make accessing the boot slightly awkward in tight parking situations. Among used Mercedes cars, the G-Class stands out for combining luxury with genuine utility.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class represents the pinnacle of luxury SUV engineering, successfully combining uncompromising off-road ability with five-star comfort and cutting-edge technology. It packages Mercedes’ finest materials, most advanced systems, and most capable engineering into an instantly recognisable and deeply desirable form. While it may not be the most economical or affordable option in the luxury SUV market, it excels in the areas that matter most to discerning buyers: presence, capability, and exclusivity.

You choose the G-Class because you want an SUV that makes no compromises. Its commanding road presence, exceptional interior quality, and legendary off-road prowess create an ownership experience unlike any other. It’s perfectly suited to luxury daily driving while remaining genuinely capable when the road ends. If you’re seeking a luxury SUV that offers true icon status and unmatched capability, the G-Class should be your first choice, especially with financing options making this automotive legend more accessible.