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Mercedes-Benz G-Class - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz G-Class ranks 7 out of 9 Luxury Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 36 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

If you think life in the military would be much improved by a healthy dose of luxury, the 2009 Mercedes Benz G Class may be the car for you.  It combines military style and power with luxurious interior touches.

For 2009, Mercedes gave its G-Wagon upgrades under the hood and in the cabin. Though reviewers had complained that the outgoing G500 model's interior didn't mesh with its $100,000 price tag, the new G550 has an interior that reviewers say lives up to the Mercedes Benz name. Plus, the new G550 has a 382 horsepower 5.5 liter V8 engine, giving it 90 more horsepower than the old G500.  Though reviewers say the tall and tippy G leaves something to be desired when it comes to handling, they are very positive about its straight-line speed. Many also note that the G550 is nearly unstoppable off-road, and it's boxy styling is a high point.

An even more powerful, high-performance AMG 55 is available.

While the G550 comes loaded with standard features, some reviewers take issue with its price tag, and note that other luxury SUVs, like the Land Rover Range Rover, offer just as much cachet, off-road capability and luxury for less money.

• "What a spectacu...OH MY DYING WORD!!!!! I just saw the price tag and almost fainted." -- Automobile Magazine
• "If you like luxury with a military look and serious off-road capability, the timelessly styled G-class has German army heritage and the right stuff for rough terrain and serious off-roading." -- Car and Driver
• "No truck is as desirable for its sheer presence, indestructible quality and go-anywhere capability. As an everyday car, however, the G550 doesn't make much sense. The awkward around-town handling, enormous step-up height, passenger space issues and naval fuel consumption make a GL-Class or even a GLK-Class more suburban-friendly choices." -- Edmunds
• "While not as racy as the contemporary GL-Class or in the running to win any awards for aerodynamic efficiency, there is no denying the ability of the G-Class Benz to make a lasting impression. Big, boxy and about as modern as a dial-up phone, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz G550's military roots serve it well, especially when it comes to off-road capability." - Kelley Blue Book

G-Class Performance - 7.7 (Good)

While reviewers applaud the Mercedes Benz G class for its off-road capabilities, they find it tough to live with on a daily basis, especially because its high profile make it tippy in turns. Car and Driver says, "To approximate the constant rolling and pitching of the G550, put on a helmet with a telephone pole sprouting from the top, and go outside on a windy day." continue

G-Class Exterior - 8.6 (Very Good)

With its boxy, military profile, the Mercedes Benz G Class stands out.  Not only do its retro looks make the G 550 distinctive, but reviewers like it's rock-solid construction.  Automobile Magazine says "The G550 feels as if it was carved from a block of granite: heavy, solid, and so unique" continue

G-Class Interior - 8.1 (Very Good)

Despite its history as a military vehicle, Mercedes has done their best to create a luxurious interior in the G-Class, and thanks to upgrades for 2009, reviewers say the company has finally succeeded. CNET  says, "The interior offers the amenities you would expect from a 100 grand vehicle." continue

G-Class Safety - NA

The 2009 Mercedes G-Class boasts a complete range of safety equipment. It has not yet been rated in government or insurance industry crash tests. continue

G-Class Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz G-Class reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2009 Mercedes G comes with a four-year/ 50,000 mile standard warranty.  continue