2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Such was the original 1979 classic's iconic profile that, when Mercedes-Benz launched a new G-Glass SUV, it continued right where the old one left off - an enlarged version of the same familiar shape and, unusually, keeping the same W463 internal model code. This second generation arrived in the USA as a 2019 model, and although it looked the same, the car was totally redesigned, engineered from the ground up on a new ladder-frame chassis to be as safe and modern as other 21st-century SUVs. It's as aerodynamic as a barn and as subtle as a bush fire, but that's how its fans prefer it. The G550 model of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class we review here has "only" 416 horsepower and lives in the shadow of its headline-grabbing 577-hp G63 AMG big brother, but has the same 4.0-liter V8 engine - albeit detuned - and is $40k cheaper. Quite sobering, considering the $140k starting price of a new Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV is already so high. Mid-size SUV rivals such as the BMW X5 might be far cheaper, more efficient, and car-like than the G, but that's hardly the point. Like the Range Rover or Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, the G recalls the past and plays the nostalgia card. Does this still hold up in 2023?

With a $139,900 price tag, the MSRP of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Glass is more than double that of many rivals, and deep into Range Rover territory - and that's just for the regular G550 4MATIC under review here. The expensive extras are not included in the price, and neither is the destination fee, which will cost you an additional $1,150.

Considering it has a ladder-frame chassis, a high center of gravity, and a curb weight north of 5,500 pounds, nobody is expecting the G-Class to corner like sports car, and it doesn't. It's not made for tackling corners; instead, it leans over and sets the tires squealing early on, with low grip limits. The optional adaptive suspension improves handling, if that's important to you. Chances are it's not, as the G's mission is to cruise, impress, and go off the beaten track, which it does incredibly well. It's almost unstoppable, thanks to plenty of wheel travel, three lockable differentials, lots of ground clearance, and short overhangs. Thanks to a substantially wider track than the previous generation, allied to independent front suspension, it feels four-square and stable, pummeling road imperfections into submission and absorbing all but the worst shocks with ease. The electrically assisted power steering is precise, and the car's footprint is not very big thanks to its box-like shape, so it's easy to drive, see out of, and maneuver.

How long is a piece of string? The fact that Mercedes sells more than 7,000 G-Class cars per year in the US seems to indicate that it matters little that the G is so expensive. It's heavy on fuel, and the bluff body generates plenty of wind noise on the highway, but clearly, these things are irrelevant to thousands of buyers. It goes to show that the G's blend of fantastic retro-modern looks, incredible off-road ability, and sheer presence answers a call and fills a niche. To its supporters, it's unimportant that you can get a more agile GLE for half the price; it just matters that Mercedes still builds a G-Class that comes with all the modern conveniences and safety features. It stays as true to its original form as a Wrangler and combines this with a Range Rover-esque measure of luxury and comfort. It's arguably the best SUV on the market if you're looking for that rare combination.

There's only one trim - the G550 4MATIC - so it will depend on how you spec it and which extras you add. You can spend thousands of dollars on exterior and interior styling packages that bring in exclusive color schemes and trim, so that's up to you. In terms of features, most are already present, and you can't get many additional ones, except for items such as a heated steering wheel, a contrasting black roof, carbon-fiber interior trim, and leather grab handles, unless you opt for one of the numerous packages. Among the more practical packages, we might consider the Seat Comfort package with its massaging and ventilated front seats with rapid heating and active bolsters. The G is a blank canvas, and the resulting artwork is entirely dependent on your imagination - and the size of your wallet.