While accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds on its way to a maximum speed of 210 km/h (130 mph) would be
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| It's unfortunate that the G500 isn't offered with a diesel engine in North America, as it would provide the big SUV with a lot more torque and much better gas mileage. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
nice, I would prefer a potent diesel, something similar to the common-rail Cummins 6-cylinder available in Mercedes' American counterpart's Dodge Ram HD. It puts out 600 lb-ft of torque which would be more than ample for the heavy G, offers relatively quiet and refined operation and would improve the gas guzzler's fuel economy dramatically, the bane of the truck as it is. Fuel economy improvements would also make it possible to go on extended off-road adventures, something that would be next to impossible with the G500 and even less likely with the G55, without a tanker of petrol following along behind. That's a shame as the G-Class offers one of the most capable permanent four-wheel drive systems currently available. It includes a low range gear ratio with three manually selectable differential locks, that combined with an electronically controlled
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| The G-Class offers one of the most capable permanent four-wheel drive systems currently available. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
traction system (4ETS) and ESP stability control is virtually unstoppable. Its frame consists of closed longitudinal profiles and cross members, ensuring an extremely rigid structure, unbending in its torsional stiffness. The frame supports beefy rigid axles with overcompensating coil springs and spring travel long enough to keep all wheels on the ground no matter what trail imperfections lay ahead - well almost. You'd need a Mercedes Unimog for that kind of capability.
The German automaker states the G's climbing ability is sufficient for grades up to 80 percent, with a maximum tilt angle of 54 percent, while its approach angles near 36 degrees and departure angles 27 degrees. Its 210 mm (8.3 inch) ground clearance should make straddling larger rocks and small tree stumps fairly easy too, albeit the G500 is not anywhere near class-leading in this last category.
