Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The Mercedes Benz G Class looks as fresh and appealing as it always did. The versions are both imposing on the road, stamping their authority on the surroundings with ease. The G Wagen is authoritative and super-stylish at the same time. There are several signature design elements, including the classic body style, the black triple horizontal slat-grille, a new alloy wheel design, and more. These are some differentiating elements, while the rest is like the AMG G 63.

If people were anxious about missing out on a lot of power and torque, then that will not be a concern. The engine comes from the Mercedes Benz S-Class and offers a lot of torque and power. The torque laden feel is unmistakably thrilling when you are driving. There is more punch now, and this comes in a linear and more predictable flow for buyers as well. The hefty SUV goes along smoothly due to the refined engine, although the effect is not as smooth and near-effortless as you would feel in an S-Class luxury sedan, for example. You also hear some engine noise, although the effect is still ultra-refined. The note of the engine is also more attractive to the ears. You will also enjoy lower running and other costs as compared to the AMG version, although the fuel efficiency figures are not that impressive. 

• Diesel Automatic- 8.13 kmpl 

The Mercedes Benz G Class offers great off-roading capability and the regular driving experience is also neat. However, the visibility at the back is poor due to the chunky spare wheel. You will also not like the lumpy and bouncy ride despite its adaptive dampers. That is one department where the G Wagen was expected to offer a considerable improvement over other SUVs in this segment. But it is not to be. The SUV still drives in a powerful manner, outclassing many other cars, but handling still needs work. It has the independent suspension system for the front while the rear gets rigid beam axles. Of course, the SUV can take potholes, rough roads, and bumps with aplomb. 

Off-roading abilities are excellent with its ground clearance of 241 mm, the rigid rear axle, water-wading abilities of 700 mm and great ramp-over, approach, and departure angles, in tandem with three locking differentials as well. You also get the 4Matic driving system, which has been tweaked to provide a 40:60 torque split between the rear and front axles. The approach angle is 30.9 degrees, while the departure angle is 29.9 degrees. The break-over angle is 23.5 degrees. 

The G Class comes with a contemporary and ultra-luxurious interior with the 12.3-inch touch screen infotainment unit and Phase-2 of the Mercedes Me Connect driver interface. There is also the digital instrument console, ambient lighting with 64 colours, ambient lighting, and more. Interior quality, as you would expect from a Mercedes vehicle, is top-class. However, the steering wheel stalks are heavier and require a decent effort. Make no mistake, this is a huge SUV and space is always adequate. There is also premium leather upholstery with contrast stitching. However, the back seat is not as comfortable as you would desire at this price point. 

There is the 12.3-inch touch screen infotainment system, Mercedes Me Connect Phase 2, digital instrument cluster, ambient lighting, sunroof, massaging, heated, and cooled front seats, and a lot more. 

The Mercedes Benz G Class comes with nine airbags, active brake assist, active lane keeping assist system, cruise control, electronic stability control, ABS, stability control, pre-tensioners, and many other safety features. 

There is the base variant which is the G 350d and this is the most value for money if you look at the line-up. You can also go for the AMG G 63 model, which is even costlier and comes with the 4.0 litre turbocharged V8 engine that churns out 577 hp and 627 lb-ft. You also get 20-inch wheels. However, if these are not things that you are driven by, then it is best to choose the entry level offering in this case. 

There are other rivals in the category, including the Land Rover Range Rover, Land Rover Defender, Porsche Cayenne, and the Toyota Land Cruiser. All of these make for great rivals, especially in terms of their features, overall ride quality, and other attributes. However, the G Wagen will always be a favourite for connoisseurs who cannot get enough of its driving experience, off-roading capabilities, imposing design and presence, and the overall package it offers. 

Going by design, road presence, and overall appeal, the G Class is second to none. It also gets great features, including excellent safety kit as well. This SUV will outperform almost all other SUVs in terms of its off-roading and go-anywhere abilities. However, the price is steep, and it does not feel as comfortable inside. Ride quality also needs considerable improvement in this case. Yet, there will always be car lovers who will appreciate the G Wagen for its looks, power, appeal, and possibly it's off-roading features (although taking a car for off-roading at this price point is only for a select few!). Buy it if you have the moolah to afford something of this powerful and iconic stature and also if you are more inclined towards retro meets modern with a butch stance.