Mercedes-Benz G-Class review

• For: Off-road ability, improved safety, on-road dynamics
• Against: Questionable image, expensive, high running costs
• Verdict: The off-road icon is better than ever

Don’t be fooled by the evolutionary styling; aside from a couple of minor points, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is all-new.

Over the course of four decades, the previous G-Class – formerly known as the G-Wagen – developed a kind of split personality, with an ability to look as comfortable on a green lane as it was on the red carpet.

The new G-Class has the same go-anywhere spirit, but with much improved on-road dynamics and safety. Quite simply, it’s a class act.

Not to be confused with a crossover, the G-Class is a hardcore off-roader. As a result, it comes with a high price tag, especially if you opt for one of the bonkers (and very expensive) AMG versions.

No G-Class will be cheap to run, and its ‘new money’ image won’t appeal to all. But there’s nothing quite like it – apart from the reborn Land Rover Defender, perhaps.

KEY INFO

• Launched: 2018
• Facelifted: TBC
• Due for replacement: TBC
• Warranty: 3 years / unlimited miles