Mercedes-Benz G-Class 2021 Review

Mercedes-Benz began selling its boxy, utilitarian G-Class in the U.S. market in 2002. Still based on the original military vehicle from the 1970s, it became a cult icon despite (and possibly a little bit because of) its dated, old-school SUV design. Though it looks almost identical to the original, the second-generation G-Class that debuted a few years ago is, with few exceptions, new from the tires up. It seats five people, comes in G 550 and AMG G 63 specification, and has no direct competitors that offer the same blend of purpose-built design, unstoppable off-road capability, and high-end interior materials and technology.

For the 2021 G-Class, Mercedes has mainly added some optional cosmetic enhancements, including a range of G manufaktur exclusive paint colors and upholstery choices. The 12.3-inch digital instrumentation is now standard equipment, and the AMG G 63 gains standard wireless smartphone charging. For more details about the flagship SUV from Mercedes-Benz, be sure to see our Expert Rating below for the one-of-a-kind G-wagen.

Which G-Class does MatoCar recommend?

Some G-Class customers think there is no substitute for the AMG G 63, but our pick is the G 550. It delivers the bold style and legendary capability for which the G-Class is known and gives you plenty of opportunity to customize its exterior appearance and interior materials.

Mercedes offers the 2021 G-Class in standard G 550 and performance-tuned AMG G 63 specification. Each is well equipped right out of the box. Feature highlights include:

G 550 Though it's not the most expensive version of the G-Class, the G 550 provides everything you need for storming the castle:

• Turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine (416 horsepower, 450 lb-ft of torque)
• Nine-speed automatic transmission
• 19-inch wheels
• All-wheel drive
• Two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing
• Three locking differentials (help provide extra off-road traction)
• Three-zone climate control
• Heated front and rear leather seats
• LED ambient interior lighting
• Sunroof

Technology and safety features include:

• Digital instrument display
• 12.3-inch central touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
• Burmester surround-sound system
• Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
• Lane departure mitigation (warns you of a lane departure when a turn signal isn't used and can automatically steer to maintain lane position)
• Rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle behind you is about to cross your vehicle's path while you're in reverse)
• Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the G-Class and the car in front)

AMG G 63 Walk into the Mercedes dealership and request the "best" version of the G-Class, and the AMG G 63 is what you'll buy. But it's only the best if you want the following features:

• Turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine (577 hp, 627 lb-ft)
• 20-inch wheels
• AMG body styling and unique grille
• AMG performance brakes
• Adjustable adaptive suspension
• Upgraded leather upholstery
• Simulated suede headliner

Options for the G-Class include the following:

• Seat Comfort package (ventilated and massaging front seats)
• AMG Line (G 550 only, adds AMG-inspired exterior and interior style enhancements)
• AMG Trail package (AMG G 63 only, adds off-road optimized suspension, all-terrain tires)
• Various exterior and interior customization options