The 2020 Mercedes G-Class stands tall as a stalwart in the SUV lineup, effortlessly blending robust off-road capabilities with luxury and style. Its iconic boxy design remains a testament to its enduring legacy, offering a unique blend of performance and sophistication.
The G-Class boasts a range of powerful engines, from the punchy 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder delivering 382 horsepower to the monstrous 4.0L twin-turbo V8 generating a heart-stopping 580 horsepower. Both engines pair with a 9-speed automatic transmission, propelling the 2.5-ton beast from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 5.6 seconds (V8) and 7.4 seconds (four-cylinder).
On paved roads, the G-Class handles surprisingly well, its air suspension ironing out most imperfections. However, its boxy aerodynamics and high center of gravity make cornering an exercise in controlled aggression. But where the G-Class truly shines is off-road. Its low-range gearing, three locking differentials, and impressive ground clearance (9.6 inches) make it a conquering hero in the wilderness, tackling mountains, fording rivers, and leaving Land Rovers in its dust.
The G-Class is an unmistakable presence. Its boxy, utilitarian design, exposed hinges, and iconic spare tire mounted on the rear door scream “I do things you wouldn’t dare.” It’s a head-turner, a conversation starter, and a walking (or rather, driving) paradox – a luxury car built for the harshest environments.
Inside, the G-Class blends rugged utilitarian elements with modern luxury. Leather seats, ambient lighting, and a high-resolution infotainment system create a surprisingly comfortable space. However, the interior feels surprisingly cramped compared to rivals like the Range Rover, with rear-seat space best suited for smaller passengers.
Brace yourself – the G-Class is a thirsty beast, averaging a measly 5.5 Km/L in the city and 7.2 Km/L on the highway (V8). Insurance, maintenance, and repairs will also make your wallet weep, with annual upkeep easily exceeding $ 10,000.
Owning a G-Class comes at a hefty price, starting at around $132,000 (four-cylinder) and easily topping $200,000 for the V8. (This is as o 2024) However, the G-Class boasts impressive resale value, retaining up to 70% of its original price even after five years.
Forget sipping fuel, the G-Class guzzles it like a desert nomad at an oasis. The city streets see its monstrous appetite unfurl, with the V8 averaging a measly 5.5 km/L – enough to make even gas station owners wince. Even the more “modest” four-cylinder manages only a slightly less eye-watering 7.2 Km/L. Prepare for frequent pump visits and a bank account perpetually lightened by the petroleum gods.
While the G-Class boasts spacious cargo capacity, its boxy shape and high ground clearance translate to a cramped interior, especially for rear-seat passengers. Forget transporting your tall friends in comfort; they’ll be left wishing they’d brought their own camels. City maneuvers also become a dance of caution, with the G-Class’s size and turning radius demanding generous parking spaces and an abundance of patience.
Owning a G-Class isn’t just about the initial purchase; it’s a lifelong commitment to its demanding upkeep. From hefty insurance premiums to regular servicing that rivals small house renovations, the G-Class is a financial black hole disguised as a luxury SUV. Be prepared to shell out significant sums for repairs, parts, and specialized mechanics who understand the intricacies of this Teutonic beast.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class 2020 is a unique beast. It’s powerful, capable, and undeniably luxurious, but its drawbacks are undeniable, it comes with a hefty price tag, shocking fuel consumption, and questionable practicality. Whether it’s worth it depends on your priorities. If you crave unmatched off-road prowess and a legendary badge, the G-Class is a compelling, albeit expensive, choice. But if practicality and value matter most, other options might be more sensible. The decision, my friend, is yours.
