2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Review, Pricing, and Specs (2024)

Starting at $132,800

8/10

C/D RATING

Specs

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Mercedes-Benz

8/10 C/D RATING

Specs

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Highs Ownership indicates wealth and status, custom options can enhance exclusivity, off-road capability is off the charts.
Lows Square body generates wind noise, on-road agility not its forte, exorbitant price puts it out of reach for most.
Verdict The G-class allows the affluent to showcase their riches on and off the beaten path.

By Eric Stafford

Overview

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-class isn't just a six-figure SUV driven by the rich and famous, it's an unmistakable off-road icon than lives up to its considerable reputation. Sure, the G-class's lofty price tag means it's only available to folks in a certain tax bracket, but anyone can appreciate the tall and square design that has been its calling card for decades. While Mercedes carefully evolved the Geländewagen's outward appearance during a recent redesign, the company greatly improved its road manners with a more sophisticated independent front suspension. Its larger proportions also make it roomier than its predecessors, and the styling and materials inside now fit its luxury pedigree. Of course, the G-wagen wouldn't be complete without a sturdy frame, ample ground clearance, and three locking differentials. Powering all four wheels is a potent 416-hp twin-turbo V-8 that pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Those who want a quicker and ritzier—and, of course, even pricier—experience will appreciate the 577-hp Mercedes-AMG G63 (reviewed separately), but we think the 2021 G-class is the more classic choice.

What's New for 2021?

The big news for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-class is that it's now more customizable than ever. That's because the company's G manufaktur program now offers 34 different exterior colors and 54 interior upholsteries. Other updates include a newly standard 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster and fresh options, such as new 20-inch wheels and an appearance package called Night Package Magno.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The price of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-class starts at $132,800.

Every G-class commands a six-figure price, and the number can get a lot higher with the wide array of expensive options. We'd avoid the priciest upgrades and enhance our version with thoughtful choices. These include the Exclusive Interior package that adds the nicer nappa leather upholstery and snazzier trim pieces. The Seat Comfort package includes massaging front seats with ventilated cushions, and the available adaptive dampers allow adjustable ride quality. The only other option we'd choose is the heated steering wheel.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Powered by a twin-turbo V-8 that makes 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, the G550 is as quick on the street as it is capable on the trail. Those who want an even speedier G-wagen can opt for the AMG-tuned G63 that makes 577 horses and 627 lb-ft but costs almost $25,000 more to start. All-wheel drive is standard on the G550, and its engine shuttles power through an obedient nine-speed automatic transmission. The 2019 G550 that we tested had much improved road manners compared with the outgoing model, thanks to an independent front suspension and a lower center of gravity. However, its square and tall body caused a lot of wind noise at higher speeds, and it sure doesn't help the SUV feel swift around corners. Still, the G550's steering feels more precise than ever and the ride quality is composed on all but the choppiest surfaces. Mercedes also equips each G-class with three locking differentials and a low-range gear, which means it can tackle just about any terrain. That along with generous ground clearance and a maximum towing capacity of 7000 pounds make it a useful tool when it's not shuttling socialites.

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Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Those who can afford to own a G550 should have deep enough pockets to cover its propensity to swill gasoline. The EPA expects every model to earn 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway. We tested one on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route—part of our extensive testing regimen—and found that it failed to meet government expectations, earning 15 mpg in the real world.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Adding to the G-class's off-road chops, the interior is all about luxury and offers more space for people and cargo than the previous generation. Standard features include a 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster, heated front and rear seats with leather upholstery, a power-adjustable steering column, and three-zone automatic climate control. With the check of a few option boxes, buyers can enjoy massaging front seats with ventilation, a heated steering wheel, nappa leather upholstery, and a digital gauge display. The G manufaktur options offer the most opulent aesthetic and allow more than 54 unique interior upholsteries, but they cost a considerable amount of money. While there's no shortage of headroom in the front or rear seats, the experience isn't as palatial as other high-end SUVs such as the Bentley Bentayga or Rolls-Royce Cullinan. Still, the Benz has tons of cargo space. The version we tested held 16 carry-on suitcases behind its back row and another 17 bags with those seats folded (33 total).

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Every G-wagen features a large 12.3-inch infotainment display that is primarily controlled through a rotary knob and touchpad mounted on the center console. Along with useful steering-wheel controls and voice commands, the system is easy to operate and less distracting than touch-heavy alternatives. It also comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 15-speaker, 590-watt Burmester audio system. Those looking for further upgrades can add a Wi-Fi hotspot or a rear-seat entertainment system.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The G-class hasn't been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). However, it does have a slew of standard driver-assistance technology such as blind-spot monitoring and self-parking assist. Key safety features include:

Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
Standard adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Mercedes-Benz provides a competitive limited and powertrain warranty that aligns with other luxury automakers. However, the company doesn't offer any complimentary scheduled maintenance.

Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
No complimentary scheduled maintenance

Specifications

Specifications

2019 Mercedes-Benz G550

VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback

PRICE AS TESTED
$146,795 (base price: $125,495)

ENGINE TYPE
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement
243 cu in, 3982 cc
Power
416 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque
450 lb-ft @ 2250 rpm

TRANSMISSION
9-speed automatic

CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): multilink/rigid axle
Brakes (F/R): 13.9-in vented disc/13.6-in vented disc
Tires: Pirelli Scorpion Zero All Season, 275/50R-20 113V M+S MO

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 113.8 in
Length: 189.7 in
Width: 76.0 in
Height: 77.2 in
Passenger volume: 107 cu ft
Cargo volume: 16 cu ft
Curb weight: 5660 lb

C/D
TEST RESULTS
Zero to 60 mph: 5.1 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 13.9 sec
Zero to 130 mph: 33.1 sec
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 5.6 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 3.1 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 3.8 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 13.9 sec @ 100 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 175 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad*: 0.61 g
*stability-control-inhibited

C/D
FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 13 mpg
75-mph highway driving: 15 mpg
Highway range: 390 miles

EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 14/13/17 mpg

DOWNLOAD TEST SHEET

–

2019 Mercedes-AMG G63

VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback

PRICE AS TESTED
$175,945 (base price: $148,495)

ENGINE TYPE
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement
243 cu in, 3982 cc
Power
577 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque
627 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm

TRANSMISSION
9-speed automatic

CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): multilink/rigid axle
Brakes (F/R): 15.7-in vented, drilled disc/14.6-in vented, drilled disc
Tires: Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric SUV, 295/40R-22 112W MO

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 113.8 in
Length: 191.9 in
Width: 78.1 in
Height: 77.4 in
Passenger volume: 107 cu ft
Cargo volume: 16 cu ft
Curb weight: 5783 lb

C/D
TEST RESULTS
Zero to 60 mph: 3.9 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 10.0 sec
Zero to 130 mph: 19.7 sec
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 5.1 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 2.8 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 3.3 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 12.5 sec @ 110 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 161 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad*: 0.75 g
*stability-control-inhibited

C/D
FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 12 mpg

EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 14/13/15 mpg

DOWNLOAD TEST SHEET

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FAQs

How much is the 2021 Mercedes G-Class worth? ›

2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Value - $86,635-$131,355 | Edmunds.

Get More Info ›

Is the 2021 G-class reliable? ›

As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's styling and performance to be its strongest features and reliability to be its weakest. 6 out of 7 of owners (86% of them) rank the 2021 G-Class five out of five stars.

Learn More Now ›

Is the Mercedes G-Class worth it? ›

The G-Class relies on style and emotion, rather than planning or execution, to justify its price. There's power and authority from behind the wheel, but this SUV is a mess when it comes to ergonomics and practicality. The technology is a letdown too.

Show Me More ›

Do G wagons last a long time? ›

Vehicles last, on average, 325,000km in a 12-year lifespan. This estimate is calculated on whether the SUV has been serviced and maintained correctly. A Mercedes Benz G-Wagon can last up to 805,000km if you care for it properly. The G-Wagon is one of the most reliable and long-lasting vehicles available.

What is special about G-Class Mercedes? ›

Imposing and dynamic. The voluminous tyres, high ground clearance, overall height of almost 2.40 metres with a width of a good 2.20 metres and a length of around 5.80 metres create an imposing appearance. The special model also impresses with fascinating acceleration from zero to one hundred in 7.9 seconds.

Read The Full Story ›

Which is the cheapest G-Class in Mercedes? ›

G-Class price starts from ₹ 2.55 Crore and goes up to ₹ 4.00 Crore. G-Class EMI starts from ₹ 5,17,048. Select city to check Mercedes-Benz G-Class on-road price.

Show Me More ›

Is G-Class expensive to maintain? ›

A Mercedes-Benz G-Class will cost about $16,561 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for luxury SUV models by $847. There is also a 42.69% chance that a G-Class will require a major repair during that time.

Find Out More ›

What is best year for G-Class? ›

In particular, G-Class models from 2013 and onwards tend to be the most reliable. Earlier models, particularly those from the mid-2000s, have reported more issues, so they might be best avoided.

Get More Info ›

What is the best year for the Mercedes G-Class? ›

Which Mercedes-Benz G-Class Is Most Reliable? While each model year of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has its strengths, J.D. Power states the 2017 and 2020 models stand out as particularly reliable. These models exhibit fewer issues than in other years and are praised for their robust build quality and durable components.

Read The Full Story ›

Can you daily drive a G-Wagon? ›

A league of its own. Over the summer I spent a week with a 2021 G63, using it as my daily driver to do everything from run errands across the city to a long road trip through the Mojave Desert with my parents. Over the course of the week it wasn't just me that fell further in love with the G-Wagen.

Read The Full Story ›

Which car is better than G-Class? ›

Range Rover and XM are top competitors of G-Class. Lexus LX and Audi RS Q8 are also among popular G-Class rivals and have compariable features and specifications. Land Cruiser 300 are similar Cars like G-Class and can be good alternative choices.

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What is the life expectancy of a Mercedes G-Class? ›

You can get almost 500,000 miles on some of them, and most G-Wagons will last twenty years if cared for properly.

Get More Info ›

How much does it cost to maintain a G-Wagon? ›

2020 G-Class AMG G 63 AMG G 63 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A)

	Year 1	Total
Maintenance	$4,253	$13,564
Repairs	$1,864	$10,871
Taxes & Fees	$10,921	$13,130
Financing	$8,465	$24,817

4 more rows

Trim type	MSRP
G AMG 63 4MATIC AWD	$156,450
G 550 4MATIC AWD	$131,750

2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Review, Pricing, and Specs (2024)

Overview

What's New for 2021?

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Infotainment and Connectivity

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Specifications

Shopping Tools

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FAQs

How much is the 2021 Mercedes G-Class worth? ›

Which car is better than G-Class? ›

References