2008 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Nothing But a G Thing

With military-inspired styling, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is one of the most rugged luxury SUVs available.

One of the boxiest SUVs ever — it could pass for the postal-delivery vehicle in a gated community — the Mercedes-Benz G-Class puts more effort into pleasing the senses once inside, providing luxurious seats in rich leather and a slew of comfort and convenience features. But with perplexing ergonomics and advanced off-road capabilities that few owners will ever explore, it remains an acquired taste.

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The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is handcrafted in Graz, Austria. It was originally designed for military use, and it looks like it. The G-Class seems nearly indestructible, with an ultra-robust ladder frame and stout suspension and axles. As one of the most expensive SUVs available, it's a rolling paradox with outstanding levels of both ruggedness and luxury.

Even though the ML-Class was redesigned two years ago and the all-new and similar-sounding GL-Class SUV was introduced last year, Mercedes-Benz decided to keep producing the retro-looking G-Class.

Inside, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has a new, seven-speed automatic transmission. A DVD-based navigation system and high-intensity bi-Xenon headlamps are now standard across the line. Other updates include revised fog lamps, new center-console controls, leather-wrapped door handle grips, and enhanced front-seat cushioning.

Despite its size, the G-Class offers just two rows of seats. The R-Class and the GL-Class each have three rows. The G-Class is taller and heavier than the GL-Class, but the GL-Class is considerably longer and wider.

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There are two Mercedes-Benz G-Class models — the base G500 and high-performance G55 AMG. The performance-minded G55 AMG version is powered by a supercharged V8 engine. It sports unique chrome trim and dual side-exit exhaust pipes.

By comparison, the base G500 lacks muscle. Its standard V8 produces just enough power to propel this 5,500-pound behemoth up to highway speeds. The new, seven-speed automatic transmission with Touch Shift manual-gear-selection capability is the only available gearbox on the base model. The AMG version gets only a five-speed automatic.

• Mercedes-Benz G-Class Vehicle Summary

The G500 delivers an adequately smooth ride over uneven pavement, with handling that’s predictable and adequately responsive, but is in no way sporty.

The G55 AMG is far quicker, thanks to its larger, supercharged engine. It marginally benefits around curves from high-performance tires, but this is not a vehicle that enjoys careening around corners, given its girth and high center of gravity.

A large rear hatch affords easy access to cargo. The passenger cabin is comfortable, with heated power front seats and supple leather upholstery. Switches for the vehicle’s various power-operated features seem to be scattered across the doors and dashboard with no particular logic in mind, however. And while a long list of amenities is included, it offers none of the latest high-tech features, like adaptive headlamps.

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No mere wannabe, the rugged Mercedes-Benz G-Class comes equipped with a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system that can be shifted on the fly from full-time, on-road to off-road, low-range gearing. It combines with electronic traction control and Mercedes’ Electronic Stability Program to afford maximum security in a wide range of driving situations.

While we suspect very few of these expensive vehicles will ever get to ride up the side of a mountain, G-Class buyers are secure in the knowledge that their hardware will be up to the task if the opportunity arises.