Overview

What's New for 2019

Mercedes-Benz offer the G-Class in two variants: G 550 and AMG G 63.

The G 550 is the base model, and it starts at roughly $124,500. It rides on 19-inch eight-spoke wheels, and it comes with standard exterior features such as rear privacy glass, heated power-folding side mirrors, an electrically heated windshield and stainless-steel running boards. Within the cabin, front-row passengers enjoy heated power-adjustable seats with memory settings. Three-zone automatic climate control helps you maintain a comfortable temperature within this SUV’s interior, and a power-adjustable tilt-and-telescoping steering column allows you to optimize your position behind the wheel. The cabin is home to an auto-dimming rearview mirror, as well as heated front and rear seats.

On the tech front, Bluetooth connectivity is standard, along with a 12.3-inch display screen and a Burmester surround-sound stereo. With standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring, you can easily integrate your devices. All models come with satellite radio and an integrated navigation system.

Base models are equipped with an up-to-date list of driver-assistance features. The list includes a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, a drowsy-driver monitor and a lane-departure warning system.

With the AMG G 63, pricing starts at about $147,500. This model travels on 20-inch AMG 12-spoke wheels. Visually, it separates itself from the base trim with a unique front grille, an AMG matte-silver brush guard and special AMG exterior design cues.

The G-Class is available with a long list of appealing options. A variety of 19-, 20-, 21- and 22-inch wheels are offered, as well as a black brush guard. You can spruce up the sheet metal with gloss-black exterior accents, carbon-fiber trim or AMG design cues. Special multi-contour front seats are available that have ventilation and a massage feature. A heated steering wheel is offered, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The G 550 and AMG G 63 each come with distinct powertrains. Four-wheel drive is standard across the model line.

With the G 550, motivation comes from a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8. This engine delivers 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, and it’s paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

The AMG G 63 is also powered by a 4.0-liter V8, but it’s been tuned to generate a muscular 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. This model is governed by a revised nine-speed transmission that produces quicker shifts than the one in the GL 550.

When it comes to its gas mileage, the G-Class won’t be winning any prizes for fuel efficiency. The G 550’s fuel economy comes in at 13/17 mpg city/highway. With the AMG G 63, mileage stands at 13/15 mpg.

The G-Class treats passengers to a sumptuous cabin. The design reflects old-world elegance, and the materials used are of stellar quality. Overall, the cabin has a chic, handcrafted look.

This model’s cabin is larger than that of the outgoing version. There’s lots of room for passengers in both rows.

Base models come with leather upholstery, and all models are equipped with 60/40-split folding rear seats. The options list includes upgraded Nappa leather seats with diamond stitching.