EDMUNDS.COM 2004 MERCEDES-BENZ G-CLASS
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
Although extremely capable in the wild, its primitive nature on the street makes it more of a high-priced novelty than a true luxury SUV.
Pros
Go-anywhere capability, powerful V8 engine, surprisingly quiet on the highway.
Cons
Heavy steering and accelerator pedal efforts, no side airbags, poor ergonomics, uncomfortable rear seat, not much cargo room.
What''s New for 2004
A trio of premium features becomes standard: multicontour front seats, a Harman-Kardon audio system and rear parking sensors.
Overview
Introduction:
Two years ago, more than 20 years after its introduction in Europe, the Mercedes-Benz Gelaendewagen was brought to America. Translated, Gelaendewagen (ga-lin-di-va-gon) means "tough terrain vehicle." Those familiar with this rig usually call it by its nickname, G-wagen. Born out of a joint venture in 1979 between Mercedes-Benz and two other companies, Steyr and Puch of Austria, the Steyr-Daimler-Puch G-wagen was (and still is) virtually hand-built in Austria and was first and foremost a heavy-duty off-road vehicle favored by various military groups and safari zealots. Usually propelled by a diesel engine, the G-wagen was not luxurious by any stretch, but it developed a reputation for being able to get through most anything, no matter how treacherous or steep the terrain. As the years went on, G-wagens were brought into the United States via the gray market, that is, by companies that brought European-spec vehicles over to the States and modified them to meet our government''s safety and emissions standards. But 2002 marked the first time the vehicle was officially imported into the U.S. by Mercedes. The G500 includes rigid axles front and rear (preferred for heavy-duty use, as they are stronger than independent designs), suspension by coil springs and gas shocks at each wheel, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and 18-inch alloy wheels wearing meaty 18-inch rubber. Greatly aiding the G-wagen''s off-road capability are aggressive approach and departure angles (of 36 and 27 degrees, respectively), a low range that can be selected on the fly (up to 15 mph) and locking differentials for the front axle, center differential and rear axle. The triple locking differentials are unique and are meant for extreme off-road conditions. Switching on all three diff locks is done simply via three push buttons on the dash. If you like the "look at me" styling, it''s hard to go wrong with the G500. But the Land Rover Range Rover and Lexus LX 470 are nearly as capable off-road and provide truly luxurious accommodations inside as well.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The G500 is available as a four-door sport-utility only. Just about every luxury feature comes standard, including 18-inch wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium nine-speaker sound system (with a CD changer mounted in the cargo bay), a CD-based navigation system, rear parking assist, heated front and rear seats and full leather and wood trim.
Powertrains and Performance:
The G500 employs a 5.0-liter gasoline V8 engine that pumps out 292 horsepower and 336 pound-feet of torque. Peak torque arrives before 3,000 rpm, promising brisk acceleration and stout off-road grunt. The five-speed automatic transmission delivers firm shifts as well as offering manual gear selection. A permanent four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing sends power to all four wheels via fully lockable front, center and rear differentials. Should you want to tow, this SUV can lug up to 7,000 pounds.
Safety:
Standard safety equipment includes four-wheel antilock disc brakes, electronic traction and stability control, seatbelt pre-tensioners, a front passenger detection system to moderate airbag deployment and emergency brake assist. Side airbags are not available, and the rear center seating position has only a lap belt.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
A navigation system, front and rear heated seats, a Harman-Kardon audio system with a six-disc CD changer, power everything, rear park assist and a sunroof all come standard, along with enough leather and wood to make the driver think he''s sitting in an S-Class sedan. Unfortunately, the stereo and navigation systems are operated via Mercedes'' confusing all-in-one COMAND interface. What''s more, owners must adapt to a rigidly upright seating position more suited to a Jeep Wrangler than a luxury vehicle. Rear cargo space maxes out at 80 cubic feet, slightly less than most average midsize SUVs.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
With the V8 working in tandem with the smooth and alert automatic gearbox, brisk acceleration is available whether from a standstill or on the highway when swift passing response is needed. But due to a stiff gas pedal, it takes a serious lead foot just to maintain speed in the G -- good thing cruise control is standard. Steering likewise requires some muscle. A few modern-day tweaks have made the live-axle setup bearable around town, but it''s not enough to mask the low-tech design. The tall, upright body still exhibits significant body roll, and road hazards come booming through the cabin with annoying frequency.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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