Used 2009 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Pricing

For 30 years, the Mercedes G-Class has been a go-to vehicle for the world's military powers. It was originally designed for the Shah of Iran, and after he was exiled, the first batch of Gelaendewagens (as the G-Class was then called) passed to Argentina's armed forces. Military versions are still ordered and owned by many nations (including the United States), and VIPs everywhere use them for security reasons. Even the Popemobile is a modified G-wagen.

There are other imposing-looking SUVs on the market, but compared to the G, they're like wimpy Noriegas who run away at the first whisper of Metallica. Whether visiting rural hunting grounds or fleeing the country over undeveloped land, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz G550 can tackle virtually any terrain.

The G550's off-road tires make use of a full-time four-wheel-drive system that includes electronically locking front, center and rear differentials, and front skid plates and a standard brush guard stand ready to clear away jungle foliage. Also, the G weighs 5,600 pounds and is built like a bank vault. You'll hear the latter said about other Mercedes-Benz models, but only the G-wagen actually looks like a bank vault.

Unlike the departed Hummer H1, the G550 is a go-anywhere, military-sourced SUV that is truly luxurious without being preposterously huge. The cabin features the same supple leather surfaces and high-tech luxury features found in other wimpier Mercedes models. The G is monolithically tall (it may not fit in your garage), but it isn't particularly wide or long, making city visits to the adoring masses possible. It's also wickedly fast and stops like a protester at the point of a fire hose.

No truck is as desirable for its sheer presence, indestructible quality and go-anywhere capability. In a way, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz G550 makes just as much sense as a third car as a Porsche or Aston Martin — incredibly capable and impractical with eye-catching styling. As an everyday car, however, the G550 doesn't make much sense. The awkward around-town handling, enormous step-up height, passenger space issues and naval fuel consumption make a GL-Class or even a GLK-Class more suburban-friendly choices.