Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, originally called G-Wagen (short for Geländewagen which means cross-country vehicle), is a sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by Mercedes-Benz. Originally designed as a military vehicle in the early 1970s, production of the G-Class began in 1979. Mercedes tried to cease production of the G-Class when they introduced the new, more upmarket GL series. However, it soon became apparent that the G-Wagon had many fans worldwide and Mercedes were forced to continue production alongside the model which was supposed to replace it! The latest incarnation, the G-Class G550 4MATIC has power and torque improvements over the outgoing G500 model, with 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Although the exterior styling could best be described as "functional" the G-Class has a certain minimalist appeal. One of the most accomplished off road of all SUVs (although it would be rare for any owners to venture off road in such an expensive luxury vehicle) the G-Class offers exclusivity, timeless styling and real road presence. The downsides are no third row seats, lack of latest high-tech features and cumbersome handling on the road. However, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 4MATIC is an absolute blast to drive, with scorching acceleration for such a large vehicle (0-60mph in 6 seconds).