2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

History/Overview

An off-roader that started out as Germany’s answer to the Range Rover, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class – or G-Wagen, as it’s commonly known – has become one of the world’s most exclusive SUVs. It’s still built to dig around in the dirt, but you might be hesitant given this vehicle’s elevated price tag.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

There are no notable changes to the G-Class for 2021; this truck was last restyled in 2019.

Available Trims

Mercedes offers the G-Class in G 550 and AMG G 63 variants, each one based around its own version of a 4.0L turbo V8 engine that makes either a lot of power (G 550) or way more than that (G 63).

Both models come standard with all-wheel drive, low-range gearing, and a nine-speed transmission.

Standard Features

The G 550 kicks things off with three locking differentials, cylinder shutoff, active LED headlights with automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, passive keyless entry, power-folding side mirrors, stainless steel running boards, and 19-inch wheels.

Inside the G 550, there’s a sunroof, radar cruise control, blind spot assist, active lane keeping and parking assists, leather seating, heated front/rear seats and steering wheel, three-zone A/C, ambient cabin lighting, a heated windshield, power steering column, auto-dimming driver’s side and rearview mirrors, dual 12.3-inch gauge and infotainment displays, navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a Burmester stereo.

AMG G 63 models gain an adaptive damping suspension, dinamica roof liner, 21-inch wheels, a frameless rearview mirror, leather-trimmed dash, a Nappa-trimmed steering wheel, and Nappa leather seating.

Key Options

To the G 550, a sport package adds 20-inch wheels, aluminum-look exterior trim, chrome grille trim, brake calipers bearing the Benz logo, and a sport exhaust.

In both models, a comfort seat package adds multicontour front seats with ventilation and rapid heating. The exclusive interior package brings Nappa leather, dinamica roof liner, leather dash trim, velour floor mats, and a frameless rearview mirror.

Fuel Economy

Mercedes-Benz’s fuel consumption ratings for the G-Class start at 13.6/12.4 L/100 km (city/highway) for the G 550; meanwhile, the AMG G 63 is rated at 18.6/15.5 L/100 km.

Competition

In terms of appearance, there is nothing like the G-Class on the market today. However, if you’ve got between $100,000 and $200,000 to spend on a luxury SUV, you might cross-shop this boxy Benz with the Land Rover Range Rover Sport, BMW’s X5 and X6 M models, the Cadillac Escalade or Lincoln Navigator, a Porsche Cayenne Turbo, or, if you’re into zero-emissions luxury, a Tesla Model X.