The Mercedes G-Class SUV is a status symbol and a capable off-road SUV. The G-Class maintains the Mercedes pedigree of building luxurious and performance-capable vehicles.
The G-Class combines a Jeep Wrangler with a Ford Bronco in its class. Except for this SUV, it has the luxury trim expected by the rich and famous.
The Mercedes G-Class is more than another SUV with rough terrain traversing capability. It is a capable off-road vehicle with the Mercedes luxury touch. The six-figure G-Class luxury features include massaging front seats and a luxurious interior.
The G-Class SUV has a refined ride and a suspension that tackles the most treacherous roads. As a result, the G-Class feels at home on the most challenging, rutted trails. Or ferrying socialites to the latest Broadway show.
The rich and tech-laden interior has plentiful modern technology, luxury, and space galore. Also, the luxurious interior is as stately as other luxury SUVs that are less off-road capable.
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The luxury options include messaging seats, Napa leather interior, and ventilated seats. Also included are a heated steering wheel and a digital gauge display.
A large 12.3-inch infotainment display controls the 15-speaker, 590-watt Burmeister audio system. A three-zone ventilation system keeps the G-Class cool, even in the rear. Rear seat ventilation is important since another rear seat entertainment system may exist.
The Mercedes G-Class is capable of traversing steep trails or cruising the interstate. The 416 horsepower provides effortless power and a twin-turbo V-8 powertrain. The power is channeled to the all-wheel vehicle by a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The G-Class G-550 has an independent front suspension for improved riding comfort. The adaptive ride controls provide excellent handling and a lower center of gravity.
A three-locking differential and low-range gear ensure the G-Class is off-road ready.
The 416 horsepower V-8 speeds from 0-60 in 3.9 seconds, not bad for an SUV with a 7,000-pound towing capacity. The five-passenger large SUV highway mileage is approximately 15 MPG.
The G-Class is comfortable being a road warrior or at home transporting socialites. Moreover, the Mercedes G-Class has a commensurate price for such a capable vehicle at $134,300.
As capable as the Mercedes G-Class is, there are alternatives to consider. My favorite alternative SUV is Range Rover Sport, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Volvo XC90.
My top Mercedes G-Class Luxury SUVs
These are three of my favorite alternatives when considering a G-Class luxury SUV.
1. Range Rover Sport
When discussing luxury SUVs, the Range Rover Sport is worthy of discussion. The luxury SUV has an investment-worthy price tag except for the Range Rover Sport. It has the identical off-road, all-wheel driving Range Rovers are famous for, but at a much better price.
The Sport offers exceptional value and off-road capability with advanced all-wheel drive system. The power is transferred to a robust eight-speed transmission.
The Sport has similar interior and wheel dimensions G-Class. The Sport has an excellent build quality featuring soft surfaces and expensive-looking hardware.
The rear seat area has an option for kids in a third-row seat to expand seating from five to seven. Two 10.0-inch screens control infotainment, and a 12.3-inch screen for the vehicle’s gauges.
The standard Range Rover Sport has a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. A 48-volt hybrid system boosts the 3.0-liter engine to generate 355 horsepower. Also available is a 395 horsepower HST model. But if we want more power, there is the Range Rover Sport Supercharged model with 518 horsepower.
- 0-60 Time: 6.0 seconds
- Pricing: $72,250 – $87,050
- Mileage (Gas): 25 MPG
- Passengers: 5/7
- Towing Capacity: 7,716
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas/Hybrid
2. Jeep Grand Cherokee
The legendary Jeep Grand Cherokee is a worthy alternative for the Mercedes G-Class. The Grand Cherokee is a rugged off-road vehicle with the refinement and comfort of a luxury SUV.
The Jeep combines a winning combination of ruggedness and refinement. This combination is rarely found in four-wheel-drive vehicles. The Grand Cherokee has a posh cabin with high-tech features and upscale materials. They include quilted leather upholstery and rich open-pore wood trim.
The luxury vehicle is a two-row SUV, and the extended Grand Cherokee L has a third-row seat for large families. Also, the cabin has up to three digital displays and one for the 360-degree exterior camera system.
The Grand Cherokee has a trio of available engines. They include a V-6, V-8, and a hybrid plug-in model, the Grand Cherokee 4xe. Driving enthusiasts will love the different powertrain configurations.
The Grand Cherokee is adept whether driven in snow or on rugged mountainous roads. The standard V-6 produces 293 horsepower, and the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 creates 360 horsepower. The other powertrain, the hybrid 4xe, generates 375 horsepower.
- 0-60 Time: 6.5 seconds (Hemi V-8)
- Pricing: $40,120 – $76,095
- Mileage (Gas): 26 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Towing Capacity: 7,200 pounds
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
3. Volvo XC90
Serving up a lot of style with excellent safety technology, the Volvo XC90 may not be a Mercedes G-Class SUV. But it is a solid investment with a lower price and a worthy G-Class alternative.
Carrying the family in a luxurious, safe SUV may be more important than driving on rough terrain. With air suspension and all-wheel drive, the Volvo XC90 is a capable SUV and has a reasonable price.
The spacious interior blends form with function and use quality materials. The ergonomic dash has intuitive controls and many luxury features. The cabin has ample leg room, a functional third seat, and many other luxury appointments. The XC90 has many safety features and a Five Star NHTSA rating. The XC90 continues the Volvo safety legacy.
The standard XC90 engine is the T5 twin-turbo four-cylinder that produces 250 horsepower. The more powerful T6 engine creates 316 horsepower, and the hybrid XC90 Recharge has 455.
- 0-60 Time: 4.5 seconds (XC90 Recharge Hybrid)
- Pricing: $51,995 – $72,195
- Mileage: 73 MPGe/29 MPG
- Passengers: 7 (third-row seat)
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Plug-in Hybrid
Alternative Luxury SUVs for the Mercedes G-Class
4. Audi Q8
With a supple ride and cool styling, the Audi Q8 SUV is a formidable alternative to the Mercedes G-Class SUV. Although not quite as large, the Audi Q8 offers more in the styling department. The focus of the Audi Q8 is to deliver an SUV with a dramatic design and place a premium on driving comfort.
The Q8 interior has precise build quality and is loaded with technological features. The luxurious cabin features are massaging seats, panoramic roofs, and dual pane windows. The excellent ride of a Q8 is further enhanced with air ride suspension for lowering the SUV as needed. The large cabin seats five and has ample storage for luggage.
A leather-lined dash with contrasting stitching adds to the appeal of the Audi Q8. The all-wheel drive Audi Quattro with twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 with 335 horsepower. Also, a 48-volt hybrid system assists in stop/start operations for smooth power.
And the Quattro powertrain couples to an obedient eight-speed transmission. The excellent transmission has a Dynamic driving mode for spirited performance. The four-wheel drive Q8 uses four-wheel steering when selecting the Adaptive Chassis option. The steering technology provides superior handling, parking vehicles, or navigating rough terrain.
- 0-60 Time: 4.5 seconds (XC90 Recharge Hybrid)
- Pricing: $71,995 – $82,995
- Mileage: 22 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Towing Capacity: 7,700 pounds
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Hybrid
5. Lincoln Navigator
The capable and luxurious Lincoln Navigator is an alternative to the Mercedes G-Class. The Navigator’s large, spacious cabin has up-scale appointments with posh seating. The interior trim includes wood trim, supple leather, and knurled control knobs.
The technological features in the Navigator are Lincoln’s finest. They help to add and contribute to the stately feel of the cabin.
The flagship Lincoln Navigator has an enhanced infotainment system using Sync 4 software. The sync 4 software uses the latest Lincoln connectivity technology, including voice recognition. Some unique Navigator touches are custom etching with open pore Kia wood on the dash.
The Lincoln Navigator has a twin-turbocharged V6 producing 440 horsepower. The powertrain has plenty of power to provide excellent performance for such a large SUV. Also, the Active Guide semi-autonomous driving mode can augment the driving experience. A smooth 10-speed automatic transmission transfers power.
- 0-60 Time: 5.3 seconds
- Pricing: $78-695 – $111,010
- Mileage: 22 MPG
- Passengers: 7
- Towing Capacity: 8,700 pounds
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
6. Genesis GV80
The Genesis GV80 has excellent quality, a classic design, and reasonable pricing. The attractive and stylish GV80 is a Mercedes G-Class alternative. The GV80 is an SUV to be considered for its styling, luxurious cabin, and exceptional quality.
The posh GV80 leather interior is loaded with technological features and luxurious amenities. The rear seating area comfort option includes six-way power-adjustable captain’s chairs.
The standard Genesis GV80 engine is a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Yet, to appreciate the power of the GV80, select the twin-turbo V-6 engine with 375 horsepower.
- 0-60 Time: 5.3 seconds
- Pricing: $51,295 – $78,295
- Mileage: 23 MPG
- Passengers: 7
- Towing Capacity: 6,000 pounds
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
7. Cadillac Escalade
The Cadillac flagship Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV. With excellent power, a posh cabin, and a comfortable ride. The Cadillac Escalade is a Mercedes G-Class alternative. The palatial interior has semi-aniline leather, soft-close doors, and adjustable massaging front seats. Also, the infotainment package includes an AKG sound system with 36 speakers.
The unique dash digital display dominates the dash with an eye-catching design. The curvaceous display provides access to the Escalade’s digital gauges and infotainment controls. Ambient lighting controls add richness to the luxury of the cabin.
Power is by a base 6.2-liter V-8 that produces 420 horsepower. The large V-8 can deactivate half the cylinders to save fuel when cruising. Or, for improved mileage, the optional turbo-diesel 3.0-liter engine is available.
Either engine uses a 10-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations. Smooth riding is assured with an adaptive air-ride suspension with computer-controlled shock absorbers.
- 0-60 Time: 7.7 seconds
- Pricing: $51,295 – $78,295
- Mileage: 27 MPG
- Passengers: 7
- Towing Capacity: 8,000 pounds
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
8. BMW X5
The mid-size BMW X luxury SUV has a well-appointed interior and the famous BMW driving magic. The X5 is an alternative to consider for the Mercedes G-Class. Smaller than the G-Class, the BMW X5 excels with performance and driving versatility. The well-rounded X5 can hug the road and tackle the next off-road trail.
The interior has upscale build materials with quality and precise workmanship. The striking X5 has a posh interior and many driver-assist and technological features. The interior trim includes a glass shift knob, leather-covered dash, and faux-suede headliner.
Also, special black upholstery with contrasting red piping. The infotainment system has a Harman/Kardon audio system and digital gauge displays. Infotainment system access is available through the BMW iDrive software.
The standard power plant is a silk-smooth inline six-cylinder engine. The powertrain generates 355 horsepower, delivering power to the BMW all-wheel xDrive system. Also available is a powerful 523 horsepower twin-turbo V-8. There is another option for a 335-horsepower plug-in hybrid system.
The engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering power as needed. The spirited BMW X5 with all-wheel drive hugs the road and is a thrilling driving experience.
- 0-60 Time: 4.2 seconds
- Pricing: $61,595 – $84,095
- Mileage: 27 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Towing Capacity: 7,200 pounds
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas/Plug-in hybrid
9. Porsche Cayenne
The Porsche Cayenne continues the Porsche brand legend by delivering pure driving excitement. The Cayenne compares well to the Mercedes G-Class with an exciting, luxurious ride. The Cayenne may not be quite the road warrior as the G-Class. But cruising along a highway with a secure feel for the road is also outside of the G-Class’ abilities.
The interior features upscale materials and precise build quality. The latest Porsche infotainment features include the Porsche Communications Management (PCM) technology. The PCM interfaces and controls have many infotainment options.
These include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technologies. A unique Porsche feature is customizing their new Cayenne. The customer can choose different combinations of finishes, technology features, and infotainment selections.
The ultra-responsive Cayenne receives its power from the base 355 horsepower turbo V-6. Other options are the 434 horsepower Cayenne S and the 455 horsepower plug-in eHybrid. Also, there is another option for a 460 horsepower twin-turbo V-8.
The Cayenne road manner is courtesy of four-wheel steering and active anti-roll bars. Also, there are adaptive dampers with an adjustable air suspension.
- 0-60 Time: 4.2 seconds
- Pricing: $70,350 – $110,350
- Mileage: 23 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Towing Capacity: 7,700 pounds
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas/Plug-in hybrid
10. Jaguar F-Pace
Excellent driving characteristics and eye-catching European styling define the Jaguar F-Pace. The gorgeous Jaguar F-Pace is an alternative to the Mercedes G-Class luxury SUV. The F-Pace combines the best elements of driving excitement with a luxurious cabin.
The upscale cabin uses fine interior materials and cutting-edge infotainment technology. There are also many driver-assistance features included. The Jaguar’s minimalist design is evident in its stylish, precise, and pleasing interior.
The F-Pace uses the Jaguar Pivi touchscreen infotainment technology. The Pivi software presents an easy-to-follow screen layout and wireless software updating.
The all-wheel drive F-Pace has a standard 246 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder powertrain. Also, there is a more powerful 395 horsepower supercharged, 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder. The sport-tuned suspension delivers an excellent Jaguar driving experience.
- 0-60 Time: 5.5 seconds
- Pricing: $70,350 – $110,350
- Mileage: 26 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Towing Capacity: 5,300 pounds
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mercedes G-Class maintenance expensive?
On average, the annual maintenance costs for a G-Class are $1,400-$1,500 per year and less than other large luxury SUVs.
Is the G-Class SUV off-road worthy?
Yes. The Mercedes G-Class is an off-road legend with a modern, updated look. As a result, the G-Class has unrivaled performance on any treacherous terrain.
Does the G-Class have a good resale value?
Yes. In the large luxury SUV market, the G-Class has the best resale value of any other vehicle. The new hand-built G-Class is made in Austria in limited numbers. This scarcity of manufacturing helps to keep the resale value high.
What are the G-Class Safety Features?
The G-Class is loaded with safety features, including:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Self-parking assist
- Forward collision warning
- Automated emergency parking
- Adaptive cruise control with stop/go technology
- Lane departure warning
- Lane-keeping assist
- Distronic steering with subtle corrections to aid in lane-keeping assist
