Mercedes-Benz G-Class History
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The Mercedes-Benz G-Class—also called the Gelandewagen or G-Wagen)—is a tall, boxy sport-utility vehicle. It’s truly unique in today’s market, with only the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota FJ Cruiser lending the same off-road-centric, retro feel. Those who want the same kind of feel would have to otherwise consider an older Land Rover Defender or ancient Toyota Land Cruiser.
The G-Class hasn’t changed much over several decades. Originally developed for the Shah of Iran, and German army use, but introduced for civilian buyers in 1979, the G-Wagen developed a loyal international following from off-road enthusiasts and military buffs. Hand-assembled in Austria, the G-Wagen fit the part of basic off-roader at first, with a modest lineup of gasoline and diesel engines and three body styles—two- or four-door hardtop, or two-door softtop. Although never officially sold in the U.S. in the 1980s, a number of G-Wagens were imported as a gray-market product and sold to the wealthy as a status symbol. By the mid-1990s, a V-8 version had been introduced, as well as a power-convertible version, and interior appointments became more luxurious.
For 2002, the G-Class finally was brought officially to the U.S., in V-8 G500 form, and just a year later a performance-tuned G55 AMG model, with a 349-hp V-8, made its debut. The G55 later was upgraded to 476 horsepower. Currently, the G550 comes with a 382-hp, 5.5-liter V-8 and the G55 has 500 hp. Fuel economy is as low as 11 mpg city, 13 highway for the AMG model.
Driving the G-Wagen is unlike any newer vehicle. The beltline is rather low, and you’re next to tall glass windows, with a good perch ahead over the hood. There’s barely seating for five, and entry/exit is challenging. Although newer versions of the G-Wagen have plenty of power on tap, the G feels top-heavy and cumbersome and won’t respond kindly to quick changes of direction. There’s also considerably more road noise than anything else in the Mercedes-Benz stable.
The G now starts at about $105k, although upholstery and trim are top-notch, with heated-and-cooled seats, a heated-steering wheel, and a leather-padded dash.
