2009 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Road Test Ratings

Vatican City operates two Geländewagens as Popemobiles. Over 20 militaries world-wide (include the United States and Canada) use G-wagens. The G-Class was built to deal with war and the ends of the Earth thus many of its pedestrian shortcomings have to be overlooked, or at least explained. It's a military vehicle with enough added luxury to drive daily, that is, if you want your trip to work to feel like a beach-storming mission for freedom.

The 2009 G-Class has two engines available, a 382-horsepower 5.5-liter V8 and an over-the-top AMG-tuned supercharged 5.5-liter V8 producing 500 horsepower. The G550 is connected to a smooth-shifting seven-speed automatic while the torquier G55 AMG continues with a five-speed automatic. Front, center and rear electronically controlled fully locking differentials are standard equipment making the G-Class a formidable off-roader right out of the box. Brakes are expectedly strong for a vehicle this large and this fast. Four-wheel ABS is standard and brake assist is available when the differentials are open. On-road performance is hampered by weight, height, off-road tires and body-on-frame design.

Heavy-duty suspension equals a tight, sometimes jittery ride. Front seats are difficult to access for shorter drivers. Rear seats are difficult to enter regardless of height. Doors require forceful slam to fully seal. Wind noise is prevalent from the mirrors and the top of the windshield. Road and tire noise is surprisingly minimal. Driving position is excellent thanks to highly adjustable seats and power tilt-telescope steering wheel.

The G-Class is a large box with large windows. Visibility is excellent all around and the rearview camera only adds to that. Lighting is also superlative; automatic bi-xenon lamps are bright, mounted high and have high-pressure heated washers. Corner-illuminating lamps are also standard. The instrument panel, HVAC, audio system and all other controls are conventional modern Mercedes parts, they work well and look sharp though the center stack is mounted slightly too low for proper driver interaction. Cupholding duty is performed by a small mesh sack for the passenger and a removable plastic unit that attaches to the arm rest for the driver. Cargo room is minimal as the wheelwells protrude into the designated cargo space. Rear seats fold to offer slightly more space.

For 2009 the G-Class has been upgraded with new wheels, a new grille and a new chrome grille-guard. The overall design, however, hasn't changed in 30 years. It's iconic, functional and unapologetic. The G-Class is built to high tolerances and our test car had no squeaks, rattles or panel fitment issues. This vehicle seems to be built to live a long, difficult life.