Another bonus comes when loading and unloading cargo into the G's luggage compartment. The side-swinging rear door opens
the proper way for North American roads, toward traffic leaving easy access from sidewalk to vehicle. Japanese and British made vehicles with the same type of swinging rear door feature hinges on the opposite (right) side, optimized for their right hand drive roads. This makes loading and unloading a Lexus GX 470, for instance, dangerous if parallel parked on a busy street anywhere in North America. As for luggage space, the G's cargo area isn't particularly large, but what it misses in floor footage is gained in a towering roof height. At the end of my test week I know for a fact that the G500 is far from perfect, but it has aged more gracefully in its 25 years than I have over the same period, despite what my high school friends had to say. Since 1979 Mercedes has sold some 175,000 G-Class SUVs to customers around to world. The vehicle has now developed an almost cult-like following, with pre-owned examples fetching top dollar.
In its current iteration it's one very special luxury truck, but once again I'd prefer mine with a powerful diesel, fewer luxury appointments and about a $40,000 drop in price. Of course this isn't going to happen anytime soon, at least for a new one. Maybe I should start thinking pre-owned?
Specifications (G500):
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| The G500 has aged gracefully, and due to its distinct styling has won an almost cult-like following from 4x4 enthusiasts. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
In its current iteration it's one very special luxury truck, but once again I'd prefer mine with a powerful diesel, fewer luxury appointments and about a $40,000 drop in price. Of course this isn't going to happen anytime soon, at least for a new one. Maybe I should start thinking pre-owned?
Specifications (G500):
- Price Range (MSRP): $109,400 - $124,330
- Body Type: 5-door SUV
- Layout: front engine, 4WD
- Engine: 292-hp, 336 lb-ft, 5.0-L, 24-valve, SOHC V8
- Transmission: 5-spd auto with manual mode
- Acceleration (0 - 100 km/h): 10.4 seconds
- Top Speed: 190 km/h (118 mph)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Curb Weight: 2,460 kg (5,423 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Volume (seats folded): 2,250 L (79.5 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 18.9 / 15.0 L/100 km (12 / 16 mpg)
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive - 60/120,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Lexus GX 430 / LX 430, Hummer H2, Porsche Cayenne
- Web Site: www.mercedes-benz.ca
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