2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Review: An Off-Road Status Icon
Americans love sport utility vehicles, that's no secret, but what they really love are the truly chunky cars that stand head and shoulders above the rest with an assertive look, and an engine to match. Most luxury SUVs don't satiate this particular hunger, since they opt for sleeker, sportier designs, but not the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class. This is one bruiser of a vehicle; it is essentially a luxury tank on wheels with a powertrain to match its looks. Under that blocky hood is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 monster that doles out a hefty 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. But don't let the rugged exterior fool you; inside, it's just as luxurious as the Land Rover Range Rover or the Lincoln Navigator. But, does the 2021 G-Class bring enough to the table to warrant the huge leap in price when the Jeep Wrangler can off-road so much better at a fraction of the price? And what is the reason the G-Class remains an icon, worldwide?
2021 G-Class Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 189.7 in | 113.8 in | 77.5 in | 76.0 in | 64.5 in | 64.5 in | 5,554.0 lbs |
2021 G-Class Performance
2021 G-Class Interior
2021 G-Class Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles |
Verdict: Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class A Good SUV?
There's no denying that the G-Class is not for everyone, and not just because of the very exclusive price tag. It's just that not many people interested in venturing off the beaten path want to do so in a VIP lounge. Similarly, city drivers who may want the ultra-luxury features that come equipped to the Merc may not appreciate its styling or its horrendous fuel economy. It really is a niche item, but at what it does, there is no better in the USA. It has excellent performance credentials, both on- and off-road, and its interior is immaculate. It offers a smooth ride, too, no matter what surface you're on. There is no official safety rating review of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, but considering its hardcore, classic SUV design, we're pretty confident this beast is a solid safety bet. And, while it may be early into its second generation, there is no denying its reliability.
Round this all off with a list of standard features longer than your arm, both comfort and safety, as well as almost unlimited ways to customize it, either before purchase or after the fact, and it's easy to see why the G-Class has become an icon in the segment. No other vehicle makes the statement that this 5-door bruiser does. When you're behind the wheel, you feel like you can take on the world, and you probably could.
What Mercedes-Benz G-Class Model Should I Buy?
The Merc G-Class is available in a single, standalone model, but that doesn't mean you have to take what you're given. There are numerous ways to customize it, both in terms of appearance, functionality, and opulence. You could spec on some AMG exterior elements to make it look a bit sportier, but it will essentially remain the same blocky beauty it always has been. Inside, there are already loads of high-quality materials, but you can go the G Manufaktur route if you want something a little more bespoke. Just keep in mind that the starting price of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV is already a whopping $131,750, so be careful how much extra work you get done.