Used 2011 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2011 Mercedes G-Class continues the legacy of one of the most iconoclastic vehicles in production today. Originally designed for military use, its simple, boxy styling and off-road reputation led Mercedes to adapt it for the civilian market and it went on sale as the G-Class beginning in 1979. Over the years, the G-Class has adopted modern technologies for its interior but the classic boxy body shape has remained remarkably similar. The G-Class is for a very specific driver; Compared to Land Rover’s Range Rover, the ride isn’t as smooth and the cabin isn’t as quiet. That’s exactly what G-Class customers are looking for, though: A combination of off-road capability and prestige that can’t be found anywhere else, especially for those purchasing the souped-up AMG model.

The 2011 G550’s power comes from Mercedes-Benz’s 382-horsepower, 5.5-liter V8 engine. Acceleration is surprisingly quick and power is easily accessible through the revs. At highway speed the G550 is very comfortable, but its boxiness and sheer bulk make it less than ideal for corner carving. The weight, however, imparts a certain sense of confidence, seeming to keep the G550 planted to the road. The steering, meanwhile, is optimized for off-road driving – where both G-Class models shine. The four-wheel drive system is permanently engaged; for off-road driving or bad weather conditions there’s a two-speed transfer case and three buttons on the dash, allowing you to lock the front, center or rear differentials at once or in whatever order you choose. The G55 AMG adds a supercharger to the same V8, making for a monstrous 500 horsepower. The AMG also comes with a high-performance braking system.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz G-Class line makes some concessions to the modern era of SUVs with Mercedes’ Comand system with LCD-screen. The boxy shape of the G-Class leaves an interior with plenty of headroom that, combined with its power seats, will seat any driver comfortably, with leather all around and Burl Walnut trim pieces adding to its hand-built feel. The rear seats are in a 60/40 configuration and can fold down to create an impressive amount of cargo room. The G55 adds upgraded wood trim, an anthracite Alcantara headliner and a special AMG steering wheel, shifter and instrument cluster in the dash.

The body of the 2011 G-Class wears its simple, military roots from its front-end (with grill and headlamp guard) all the way to its bank-vault like hinged rear gate/door. The nearly 40-year-old basic design definitely appeals to some more than others, but its hand-built quality, thick sheet metal and high, aggressive stance create an undeniable presence.

G55 AMG
If you’re considering the G550, you owe it to yourself to give some serious thought to the G55 AMG. The forcefulness of its 500 horsepower alone justifies its place as the most expensive SUV on the market.

Sculpted Bucket Seats
The sculpted bucket seats are versatile in adjustment options and seat the driver in a firm, upright position, perfect both on the road and off.

Both G-Class models come standard with four-wheel drive, a seven-speed automatic transmission, three locking differentials, traction and stability control, dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated power front seats, rear park assist, rear-view camera, heated wood and leather steering wheel, bi-xenon headlamps, 18-inch wheels and Comand system with navigation and harman/kardon audio. The G55 AMG gets 19-inch wheels, upgraded paint and chrome body-guard pieces.

Save for some accessories and vanity pieces, the Mercedes-Benz G550 has no optional equipment available. The G55 AMG comes standard with all available options.

The Mercedes-Benz G550’s 5.5-liter V8 is an impressive engine, producing a peak 382 horsepower. With the G550’s 5,600-pound curb weight, however, the torque the V8 produces is more important (and impressive), giving the SUV acceleration and quickness reminiscent of smaller SUVs without fading at highway speeds. The AMG-tuned G55 is all of that and more; its supercharged V8 can take you from zero to 60 miles per hour in a laugh-inducing, did-that-SUV-just-do-that 5.4 seconds.

5.5-liter V8
382 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
391 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2800-4800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 11/15

5.5-liter V8 Supercharged
500 horsepower @ 6100 rpm
516 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2750-4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 11/13