2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Sculpted Bucket Seats
The seats in the Mercedes-Benz G550 SUV are excellent. They offer versatile adjustment options and a firm grip for the driver.

It Lives
Even if it's only for one more year, it heartens us to see an iconoclast such as the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class survive in an era where too many designs are almost indistinguishable.

With a price of more than $100,000, you'd better believe there are plenty of modern conveniences packed into the 2012 G550. Features include the Mercedes-Benz COMAND system with its computer-mouse-like control and LCD monitor, leather seats and sunroof. Cargo room is as good as you'd expect and headroom is outstanding. Taller drivers and passengers, however, will wish for more legroom.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G550 SUV is one of the most immediately identifiable vehicles in the world. Its broad shoulders and high stance make a clear statement. Mercedes has advanced the looks of the G-Wagen just enough to make it recognizable as a modern vehicle, rather than a compromised version of a military workhorse. It doesn't hurt that every panel of the G-Class screams "solidly built."

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G550 SUV keeps its impressive 382-horsepower 5.5-liter V8. Those who venture off-road will appreciate its gargantuan 391 lb-ft of torque, which is reached at a low 2,800 rpm. The 2012 G-Class will accelerate from rest to 60 mph in about six seconds, which is amazing for such a heavy vehicle.

5.5-liter V8
382 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
391 lb-ft torque @2,800-4800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 12/15

The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G550 is just over $106,000. The Edition Select Package adds about $7,000. Even in the rarefied air of SUVs such as the Land Rover and the Porsche Cayenne, this is a hefty sum. Those who fall for the G-Class lure, however, will be the first to say it's worth it. Be ready to travel to test-drive a G-Class, as most are sold as special orders and finding one on a lot is rare. Still, be sure to visit kbb.com to see our Fair Purchase Price, which shows what others in and, perhaps, outside your area are paying. Resale values on G-Class models have been relatively strong over the past few years, but only time will tell if the limited production and impending cancellation of the G-Class will hold much sway over the long-term value of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

To find out what consumers are really paying for this vehicle, first select a style to see the Fair Purchase Price| Calculate payments for this vehicle