by Mike Gulett –
As I get older it seems to me that my taste in cars is changing, or my desire to drive certain types of cars is changing. I find myself dreaming about 4-door sedans (Aston Martin Rapide for example) and certain SUVs (like the one described below) instead of hot sports cars. I do take the Aston Martin Vanquish S out at least once a week if it is not raining and that is fun.
Recently I have become besotted with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class (aka G-Wagon). I do not see them on the road often and when I have in the past I did not think about them much because I did not know anything about them.
A friend of mine drives one and I get to see it usually once a week and it has caught my attention. I have done some research and I now see why so many people like them. Read on…
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, (short for Geländewagen, German for “cross-country vehicle”) was introduced in 1979, the G-Class was initially a military vehicle but transitioned into an off-road vehicle and later a luxury vehicle.
The G-Class was born out of a cooperation between Mercedes-Benz and Steyr-Daimler-Puch in Austria, where it is still assembled today in the city of Graz. The vehicle was originally commissioned in the 1970s for military use by the Shah of Iran, a Mercedes shareholder at the time.
Mercedes eventually upgraded the interior, added more powerful engines, and improved ride comfort. The G-Wagen retained its boxy design, rigid ladder-frame chassis, and three locking differentials, but started to embrace more comfort and luxury, attracting attention from luxury buyers and some celebrities.
The most distinctive feature of the G-Class is its angular, retro box shape, which has remained largely unchanged for decades. It features flat body panels, external door hinges, a rear-mounted spare tire, and a vertical windshield, creating a visual identity unlike any other luxury SUV.
Underneath, the G-Class is built on a body-on-frame platform, rare today but ideal for serious off-roading. It offers full-time four-wheel drive, three fully locking differentials, and high ground clearance, making it one of the most capable factory 4x4s around.
In 2018, Mercedes launched a major redesign of the G-Class—the first since its inception. While the shape stayed the same, everything under the skin was up dated. The vehicle became wider for better interior comfort and handling, the steering system was changed from recirculating ball to rack-and-pinion, and independent front suspension replaced the older solid front axle, improving road manners without sacrificing off-road abilities.
Modern G-Class models, particularly the G 550 and the AMG G 63, are among the most powerful and luxurious SUVs on the market. The G 550 features a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing around 416 horsepower, while the AMG G 63 puts out 577 horsepower, launching the brick like shape from 0 to 60 mph in under 4.5 seconds.
Inside, the G-Class is typical Mercedes-Benz luxury, with leather upholstery, wood or carbon trim, large digital displays, and cutting-edge infotainment systems. Despite its utilitarian roots, the G-Class is now more likely to be found cruising Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills or the streets of Dubai than tackling the Rubicon Trail in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a rare blend of heritage, capability, and luxury. With roots in military design and a modern-day presence in the world’s wealthiest neighborhoods, the G-Wagen has evolved without losing its soul. It remains one of the most distinctive vehicles on the road — equally at home climbing a mountain trail or pulling up to a luxury hotel.
Can you understand why I am smitten by the G-Wagon?
Let us know what you think in the Comments.
Research assistance (with some writing) by ChatGPT 40 and images by ChatGPT 40 and Dall*E.
Mike, the G Wagons are everywhere here in Scottsdale! It seems that wildly colored wrap jobs is big on these locally too. My daughter loves them and hopes to own one someday. They are pretty cool and the new ones full of great Mercedes tech. While I like the G Wagon, at least for my taste, they are a little too austere to me. I’m a Land Rover fan, having owned four full size Range Rovers (including my current one), one supercharged Range Rover Sport, two Discoveries (I and II) and a recently purchased low mile ‘09 LR3. My current full size RR is a 2022 HSE P525 supercharged V8. I love it. The styling to my mind is perfect and it is just the right size….not too big like a Caddy Escalade or GM Denali but large enough for carrying people in comfort and lots of cargo if needed. It is comfortable and fast and capable in any sort of weather. The tech is good and contrary to general opinion, they are reliable too. You can’t go wrong with a G Wagon Mike. If you’re in the market for a great SUV, maybe check out the Range Rovers while you’re at it! You’ll be impressed.
Mike,
Yes, all accurate, but Steyr-Daiimler-Puch underwent a name change some years ago to Magna-Steyr, and not only do they assemble cars for other companies in Graz, but are also a major car parts supplier to all the companies. Here is a somewhat dated list of car models they assemble and have assembled in the past:
“Magna Steyr developed Mercedes-Benz’s “4MATIC” all wheel drive system and assembles all E-Class 4Matic models. The company also did substantial development on the BMW X3 and manufactures all X3s.
Historic production:
Audi
Fiat
1994–1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Mercedes-Benz M-Class
Volkswagen Golf Country (1990 – 1991)
Volkswagen Transporter Syncro (1984 – 1992)
Current production:
BMW X3 – 8770 produced in 2003, 34,604 in 2004
Chrysler Voyager
Chrysler 300 (sold as the 300C internationally)
Jeep Commander
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Mercedes-Benz E-Class 4MATIC – 23624 produced in 2003
Mercedes-Benz G-Class – 6833 produced in 2003
Saab 9-3 Cabrio – 9800 produced in 2003
Others
Magna Steyr MILA 4-in-1 roof system
MILA Flexible EV Concept”
Rob, Thanks for the suggestion, it seems that the Land Rover is the main competition for the G-Wagon.
Glenn, Thanks you for all that information that I did not know.
You’re welcome Mike. I am a big fan of Mercedes too as we have a S-560 and a GLC 300 and previously owned a S-550 and I had a 1986 560SL. If you desire a G Wagon, go for it. They are very cool. I’m partial to the Range Rovers as I am a fan of anything British (particularly the AC Mk. IV!) and the Range Rovers have never disappointed. For comparison purposes, you might want to check the RR’s out. The full-size Range Rover is more “cushy” than the Range Rover Sport, which has a more sporting nature and firmer ride. The reason I sold my ’20 RRS Supercharged is that it was a touch too small and the ride was harsher than I wanted. Otherwise, it was a wonderful vehicle.