Conceived before SUV’s were trendy – about four decades ago – the 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class 550 was a treat to drive, even if it was only on pavement.
A man can dream, can’t he? Taming tundra inside the Arctic Circle? Searching the Serengeti on the African savanna for elephants and hippos? Or searching the Sahara for the next oasis?
That’s where the G550 took me – at least in my mind. Hip people call it the G Wagon. But not me. The “G” has achieved timelessness via a sense of fashion that’s born from function, and then continued to make advancements to provide a feeling of confidence that’s unmatched.
It won’t win any beauty contests, but that’s not the point. It’s the cube root of capability. It’s the definition of form based on function. The upright, boxy design maximizes cabin space within a maneuverable footprint. The straight, flat glass windshield – if broken – could be replaced even in a remote location. You can reach its rear-mounted spare tire without unloading cargo or climbing underneath a muddy vehicle.
Powered by a 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 engine mated to an AMG Speedshift Plus seven-speed automatic transmission, the duo generates 563 horsepower and more torque than I knew what to do with. The G550 seats five adults with an extra-large cargo area behind, and managed 13 miles per gallon in city/highway driving.
On every G class model, a two-speed transfer case adds a low range to the permanent four-wheel drive system along with three sequentially lockable differentials that allow you to progressively increase off-road prowess as needed.
It’s also built like a brick you-know-what. It features quad side-pipes exhaust, massive AMG brakes, beefy 21-inch wheels, and a rugged, rigid-axle suspension outfitted with gas-charged shocks and coil springs.
So while the G550 can climb an 80-percent grade without fear (I’d be worried), it can also carve a sharp curve with the best of them. It has been engineered to pass every test, including the test of time.
But while the G550 was designed to deliver performance, versatility, durability and reliability, it was also built to spoil and pamper. After all, it is a Mercedes.
Luxury appointments include heated and ventilated, Nappa leather, power front seats, heated outboard rear seats, power steel sunroof, navigation system and Harman Kardon 12-speaker, surround-sound system.
In the safety department it includes a rear-view camera, blind-spot assist, parking assist, adaptive cruise control, four-wheel electronic traction system and trailer-stability assist.
User-friendly technologies help keep you connected, entertained and feeling in charge. And intuitive controls make it simple. Highlights include Apple CarPlay, multi-function steering wheel and an electrically heated windshield and side mirrors.
The G550 is different. You’ll notice it from the click the door latch makes, to the way it feels like it has been carved from a block of granite, yet lined with the softest silk. Every detail has been accounted for, and you, my friend, are the beneficiary.
Base Price: $122,985
Price As Driven: $123,600
Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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