Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz G-Class consists of two models: the G 550 and the performance-oriented AMG G 63 (reviewed separately). Although it was new from the ground up last year, the G 550 retains a very familiar silhouette, one that has impressed the world with its off-road ability and dogged reliability for over four decades.

Still built in the same Austrian town that gave birth to the first G-Wagen, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV features a body-on-frame chassis with an independent front suspension, a front, center and rear locking differential and a 416-horsepower twin-turbocharged V8. Of course, we know here in the U.S., most if not all G 550 SUVs will probably never have to conquer obstacles higher than a Neiman-Marcus parking curb, but hey, it’s nice to know a vehicle as luxurious as the G-Class can tackle nature’s worst if asked.

Highway cruising proves an effortless chore in the 2020 Mercedes-Benz G 550. Under normal driving conditions, the 9-speed automatic delivers smooth, nearly imperceptible shifts. Put a little more pressure on the gas pedal, and those shifts suddenly become more apparent, with crisp, quick changes. The transmission works well in all situations, and never feels like it’s hunting around for just the right gear. The variable-assist power steering remains light and effortless when prowling parking lots for an open space, but quickly firms up once the G 550 reaches highway speeds.

Better still, we experienced none of the drift or vagueness sometimes experienced in large, body-on-frame trucks. The G-Class’ tall body does exhibit more body roll than found in an Audi Q7 or Land Rover Range Rover, but the big Mercedes’ well-sorted suspension keeps it to a minimum. While we appreciate the visibility afforded by the tall roof and flat-panel windshield, plus the large directional signals prominently mounted atop the front fenders, the design is a magnet for wind noise. Off-road, the Mercedes-Benz G 550 remains one of the most capable SUVs, easily rivaling the Land Rover Range Rover and Lexus LX 570.

Luxury has been heightened considerably with the newest G-Class, thanks largely to the use of top-quality leather and attractive wood veneers. We’re glad Mercedes retained the prominent grab bar for the front passenger, and we also like how the traditional instruments have been replaced by an attractive and easy-to-read digital screen. The dashboard, with four prominent circular air vents, also features a push-button starter and an integral analog clock, this last item adding a touch of traditional ambience.

The 2020 G 550 is 2.8 inches longer and rides on a wheelbase also increased by 2.8 inches over the previous generation. As a result, Mercedes has found nearly six inches more rear legroom than before, plus an extra 1.5 inches up front. There’s also 4.8 inches more shoulder room inside the new G. All this extra space is much appreciated, as is a new rear bench seat that folds and splits 60/40.

Mercedes has successfully adopted the familiar look of the old-school G-Wagen, giving the 2020 G 550 luxury SUV a traditional yet modern appearance. The G 550 remains as boxy and upright as ever, still military in appearance and not mistaken for any other vehicle. Items such as the flat glass, exposed door hinges and external spare tire add a back-to-basics feel, and even though the new G 550 is a larger vehicle, it doesn’t look that much bigger. A high-mounted tubular grille guard, unique to the G 550, adds to the rugged look.

THREE LOCKING DIFFERENTIALS
The ability to control how power is distributed to which wheel is crucial for off-roading, which is why the 2020 Mercedes-Benz G 550’s three locking differentials are so critical. Three buttons on the dash begin the process, which must follow in order of the center first, then the rear and finally the front.

DYNAMIC SELECT DRIVE MODES
The 2020 G 550’s Dynamic Select terrain-response system allows various settings for tackling tough off-road situations. Choose Slippery, Individual, Comfort, Sport and Sport+, and the system will adjust the throttle, steering and stability control for maximum grip.

If the twin-turbo V8, 9-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4-wheel-drive (4WD) system with three locking differentials aren’t enough, consider that the 2020 Mercedes-Benz G 550 is also equipped with LED headlights and taillights, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a sunroof and a handy 360-degree camera that helps when parking the G in tight lots. Also standard: Brake Assist, Lane Keep Assist and Dynamic Select with five driving modes (Slippery, Individual, Comfort, Sport and Sport +).

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz G 550 is available with a $12,200 Exclusive Interior Package that includes diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a Designo headliner and front seats with active bolsters and built-in massagers. You can also get a $3,470 AMG kit that includes AMG body styling, flared wheel arches, a sport exhaust and brake calipers emblazoned with the words “Mercedes-Benz.” If you’re looking for a blacked-out G 550, the $5,370 Night Package adds the AMG kit plus exterior mirrors, spare-tire cover, grille, brush guard and wheels all done in black, plus black-tinted headlights and directional signals.

Beneath the 2020 Mercedes-Benz G 550’s aluminum hood resides a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 pumping out a healthy 416 horsepower and robust 450 lb-ft of torque. This engine is somewhat unique in that it tucks its turbochargers into the engine’s valley (the vee shape at the top of the aluminum block between the cylinders) as opposed to outside it. It’s a more efficient design that helps separate cool and hot components of the turbo system, increasing efficiency and reducing turbo lag.

Teamed with a 9-speed automatic, this setup can propel the G 550 to 60 miles per hour in a scant 5.6 seconds. Not bad for a rolling brick that weighs as much as a Lincoln Navigator.

4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8
416 horsepower @ 5,250 rpm
450 lb-ft of torque @ 6,175 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 13/17 mpg