Starting at $132,800
8/10
C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
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Mercedes-Benz
8/10 C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
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- Highs Ownership indicates wealth and status, custom options can enhance exclusivity, off-road capability is off the charts.
- Lows Square body generates wind noise, on-road agility not its forte, exorbitant price puts it out of reach for most.
- Verdict The G-class allows the affluent to showcase their riches on and off the beaten path.
Overview
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-class isn't just a six-figure SUV driven by the rich and famous, it's an unmistakable off-road icon than lives up to its considerable reputation. Sure, the G-class's lofty price tag means it's only available to folks in a certain tax bracket, but anyone can appreciate the tall and square design that has been its calling card for decades. While Mercedes carefully evolved the Geländewagen's outward appearance during a recent redesign, the company greatly improved its road manners with a more sophisticated independent front suspension. Its larger proportions also make it roomier than its predecessors, and the styling and materials inside now fit its luxury pedigree. Of course, the G-wagen wouldn't be complete without a sturdy frame, ample ground clearance, and three locking differentials. Powering all four wheels is a potent 416-hp twin-turbo V-8 that pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Those who want a quicker and ritzier—and, of course, even pricier—experience will appreciate the 577-hp Mercedes-AMG G63 (reviewed separately), but we think the 2021 G-class is the more classic choice.
What's New for 2021?
The big news for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-class is that it's now more customizable than ever. That's because the company's G manufaktur program now offers 34 different exterior colors and 54 interior upholsteries. Other updates include a newly standard 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster and fresh options, such as new 20-inch wheels and an appearance package called Night Package Magno.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-class starts at $132,800.
Every G-class commands a six-figure price, and the number can get a lot higher with the wide array of expensive options. We'd avoid the priciest upgrades and enhance our version with thoughtful choices. These include the Exclusive Interior package that adds the nicer nappa leather upholstery and snazzier trim pieces. The Seat Comfort package includes massaging front seats with ventilated cushions, and the available adaptive dampers allow adjustable ride quality. The only other option we'd choose is the heated steering wheel.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Powered by a twin-turbo V-8 that makes 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, the G550 is as quick on the street as it is capable on the trail. Those who want an even speedier G-wagen can opt for the AMG-tuned G63 that makes 577 horses and 627 lb-ft but costs almost $25,000 more to start. All-wheel drive is standard on the G550, and its engine shuttles power through an obedient nine-speed automatic transmission. The 2019 G550 that we tested had much improved road manners compared with the outgoing model, thanks to an independent front suspension and a lower center of gravity. However, its square and tall body caused a lot of wind noise at higher speeds, and it sure doesn't help the SUV feel swift around corners. Still, the G550's steering feels more precise than ever and the ride quality is composed on all but the choppiest surfaces. Mercedes also equips each G-class with three locking differentials and a low-range gear, which means it can tackle just about any terrain. That along with generous ground clearance and a maximum towing capacity of 7000 pounds make it a useful tool when it's not shuttling socialites.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Those who can afford to own a G550 should have deep enough pockets to cover its propensity to swill gasoline. The EPA expects every model to earn 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway. We tested one on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route—part of our extensive testing regimen—and found that it failed to meet government expectations, earning 15 mpg in the real world.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Adding to the G-class's off-road chops, the interior is all about luxury and offers more space for people and cargo than the previous generation. Standard features include a 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster, heated front and rear seats with leather upholstery, a power-adjustable steering column, and three-zone automatic climate control. With the check of a few option boxes, buyers can enjoy massaging front seats with ventilation, a heated steering wheel, nappa leather upholstery, and a digital gauge display. The G manufaktur options offer the most opulent aesthetic and allow more than 54 unique interior upholsteries, but they cost a considerable amount of money. While there's no shortage of headroom in the front or rear seats, the experience isn't as palatial as other high-end SUVs such as the Bentley Bentayga or Rolls-Royce Cullinan. Still, the Benz has tons of cargo space. The version we tested held 16 carry-on suitcases behind its back row and another 17 bags with those seats folded (33 total).
View Photos
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every G-wagen features a large 12.3-inch infotainment display that is primarily controlled through a rotary knob and touchpad mounted on the center console. Along with useful steering-wheel controls and voice commands, the system is easy to operate and less distracting than touch-heavy alternatives. It also comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 15-speaker, 590-watt Burmester audio system. Those looking for further upgrades can add a Wi-Fi hotspot or a rear-seat entertainment system.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The G-class hasn't been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). However, it does have a slew of standard driver-assistance technology such as blind-spot monitoring and self-parking assist. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
- Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Mercedes-Benz provides a competitive limited and powertrain warranty that aligns with other luxury automakers. However, the company doesn't offer any complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Specifications
Specifications
2019 Mercedes-Benz G550
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback
PRICE AS TESTED
$146,795 (base price: $125,495)
ENGINE TYPE
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement
243 cu in, 3982 cc
Power
416 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque
450 lb-ft @ 2250 rpm
TRANSMISSION
9-speed automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): multilink/rigid axle
Brakes (F/R): 13.9-in vented disc/13.6-in vented disc
Tires: Pirelli Scorpion Zero All Season, 275/50R-20 113V M+S MO
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 113.8 in
Length: 189.7 in
Width: 76.0 in
Height: 77.2 in
Passenger volume: 107 cu ft
Cargo volume: 16 cu ft
Curb weight: 5660 lb
C/D
TEST RESULTS
Zero to 60 mph: 5.1 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 13.9 sec
Zero to 130 mph: 33.1 sec
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 5.6 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 3.1 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 3.8 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 13.9 sec @ 100 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 175 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad*: 0.61 g
*stability-control-inhibited
C/D
FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 13 mpg
75-mph highway driving: 15 mpg
Highway range: 390 miles
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 14/13/17 mpg
–
2019 Mercedes-AMG G63
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback
PRICE AS TESTED
$175,945 (base price: $148,495)
ENGINE TYPE
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement
243 cu in, 3982 cc
Power
577 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque
627 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
TRANSMISSION
9-speed automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): multilink/rigid axle
Brakes (F/R): 15.7-in vented, drilled disc/14.6-in vented, drilled disc
Tires: Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric SUV, 295/40R-22 112W MO
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 113.8 in
Length: 191.9 in
Width: 78.1 in
Height: 77.4 in
Passenger volume: 107 cu ft
Cargo volume: 16 cu ft
Curb weight: 5783 lb
C/D
TEST RESULTS
Zero to 60 mph: 3.9 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 10.0 sec
Zero to 130 mph: 19.7 sec
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 5.1 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 2.8 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 3.3 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 12.5 sec @ 110 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 161 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad*: 0.75 g
*stability-control-inhibited
C/D
FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 12 mpg
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 14/13/15 mpg
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