History/Overview
The G-Class -- also known as the G-wagen -- is Mercedes-Benz's flagship SUV model. Originally designed as a military vehicle, over the years it has morphed into an ultra-luxury model. It was redesigned into a new generation for the 2019 model year.
What's New / Key Changes from Last Year
For 2020, changes to the G-Class are in trim. There's a new Manufaktur line of custom finishes (it replaces Mercedes's Designo line), and all G-Class models now come standard with a rear-seat entertainment system.
Most of the other changes involve cosmetic options, but the G 63 adds a new trail package with a suspension tuned to allow for more articulation in off-road settings.
Available Trims
Mercedes sells the G-Class as the G 550 and the high-performance AMG G 63. Both use 4.0L turbocharged V8 engines, but the G 63's is a hand-built unit that makes a lot more power. Either way, a nine-speed transmission and 4Matic four-wheel drive are standard.
Standard Features
The G 550 comes standard with multibeam LED headlights, LED taillights, 19-inch wheels, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, keyless engine start, a heated steering wheel, heated/power-folding side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, three-zone automatic climate control, navigation, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated front and rear seats, power-adjustable front seats with lumbar, and ambient interior lighting.
G 550 standard active safety and driver aids include blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, park assist, adaptive cruise control, and tire pressure monitoring.
The G 63 adds AMG exterior styling elements, 21-inch wheels, and massaging comfort seats.
Key Options
Among the G-Class's options are surround view exterior cameras and a front brush guard.
G 550 can be had with a sport package that adds 20-inch wheels and wheel arch extensions; a night package also adds 20-inch wheels and wider arches, but also gets a sport exhaust and various darkened exterior trim pieces.
A G 63 night package gets 21-inch wheels and dark styling bits.
Fuel Economy
As of this writing, Mercedes-Benz had not published fuel consumption estimates for the 2020 G-Class, but the mechanically similar 2019 model's ratings are 18.0/14.1 L/100 km (city/highway) for the G 550, and 18.1/15.6 with the AMG G 63's more potent engine.
Competition
The G-Class competes in a rarified class of luxury SUVs. Comparable vehicles include the Land Rover Range Rover Sport, the BMW X5 M and X6 M, the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln's Navigator, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, and Tesla's Model X.
