Is A New Mercedes G-Wagon Worth The Hefty Price Tag? – SlashGear

When the G-Wagon came out in 1979, it only had 71 horsepower. Nowadays, every G550 comes with a twin-turbocharged 4.0 liter V8 that makes 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. That power is transferred to the pavement — or dirt — via a standard all-wheel drive system, with locking differentials both front and rear, and 9.5 inches of ground clearance to pass over obstacles.

While the newer second-generation G-Wagon has an improved ride due to new independent front suspension and a lower center of gravity, its boxy sheet metal and tall profile still subject the uber-SUV’s occupant to considerable wind noise and uncertainty when cornering. In a straight line, the G550 is surprisingly quick; achieving 0-60 MPH in just over five seconds on its way to the electronically-limited top speed of 130 MPH.

In recent years, the G-Wagon’s reputation as the de facto luxe off-roader has been challenged by the likes of the Land Rover Defender, Audi RS Q8, Maserati Levante, and others — all with a lower price of admission. Besides the lofty purchase price, the G550’s other shortfalls include a smallish cargo area, cramped rear seat, and poor fuel economy, but none of that matters if you’re in the market for a G-Wagon.

At the end of the day, the G-Wagon projects a certain image. Buyers are drawn to its rough-and-tumble toughness, its military origin, its many celebrity endorsements, as well as the timeless styling the G-Wagon boasts.