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Currently in an E550 and thinking about moving into a G for my next vehicle. I typically keep a vehicle for ~5 yeas / 60,000 miles so warranty won't be an issues. For those that have been in a G for a while, what attracted you it and what are the things that keep you climbing back in day after day?
I love the exterior style (especially with a set of HRE's ) but the inside seems a bit utilitarian. Does the cockpit layout function well and can the backseat comfortabley fit 2 adults?
I've only had my G63 for about two weeks. There's just no suv like a G-wagon. I originally had a bigboy RR on order. Those are pretty cool if you want more room and massage seats, tho not as nice as the massage seats in our S.
Couple things I love, the ride height, the narrowness of a G yet still having such a large feel to the vehicle. The cockpit layout seems the same as any of the other Mercedes SUV
As for the backseats, I was comparing the specs to my F15 X5, the G is suppose to have more legroom in the rear. At first the G rear does seem smaller but it's hasn't been an issue at all. My wife or I sit in the rear often to keep the baby accompanied.
I have not seen a good set of HREs on the Gwagon yet lol. Which style are you talking about? I wanted to pick up a set of summer wheels
There is a matte black G63 local with these on it that I pass frequently. Took my 550 in for service a few months ago and the owner pulled in behind me. They were 21's that totally set the wagon apart from any others I'd seen.
Still debating on life with a G and had hoped for a few more replies to get a good feel for it. My driving is mostly around town with a monthly trip ~ 250 miles or so over a weekend. I have two teenage boys in sports - Lacrosse with long stick / big gear bags. So it must have room for those items in the back and a few smelly boys. Other than taking the dog to the part of getting groceries, it will live a pretty mundane life. We have the wife's Escalade for the long trips as a family.
The G just stirs an almost primal urge to own one. The style is so unlike anything else on the road and they always catch my eye. There are maybe a dozen or so around us in the Nashville area and I can't help but gawk every time I pass one. If it's the matte black one referenced above I might as well pull over to watch it go by. Love that wagon!
I just bought a 2004 G500 on Friday and love it. Had a LR3 past 10 years. It was extremely functional and very reliable... The G500 has a raw feel of a ride but with a few modern elements. I love it and am looking forward to setting it up for expedition travel.. My only bummer is that I cannot add a roof rack and park inside my garage.. height limitations.. So for now, I'll add either a rear tire bike rack or add a hitch with a bike rack... I'm still feeling out what is best to add to this truck but overall, the base set up is exciting and to me, just simple... As a realtor, I'm venturing around my core neighborhoods and won't get too much highway use out of it...
To me, it is closest design to a modern day Defender 110, but a bit more civilized. I did compromise by not having a 3rd row for my 3 kids but they have to get over that and just sit next to each other... ages 3, 6 and 8... before they were spread out between the 2 rows... However, they do have the option to ride with my wife in her new GL....Just Do it and have fun...
Last edited by goinsurfin; 03-26-2016 at 10:11 PM.
I just bought my third G-wagen, sold the first two primarily due to a severe lack of on road ride quality. LOL now I own another....
If you buy one you just need to know it will not ride like a Range Rover or even a new F-150 Ford. if you are looking for a smooth and vibration free driving expirience you need to pass on the G, but if the looks and feel stir your soul the ride quality becomes secondary... that's the purpose of the other luxury car you need to own....
I love the exterior style (especially with a set of HRE's ) but the inside seems a bit utilitarian.
I bought my G550 purely for its exterior aesthetics. I've had it for three years now and really miss my Range Rover. For the price, I'm just not that impressed. The vehicle lacks the interior comfort and smoothness of a RR. It's a clunky, roaring monster. When you open and close the door, it's like a bank vault. Some people love that about the G. Me, I like comfort. I never took the RR or the G off-road. I live in LA. I switched to the G because too many of my neighbors have the RR.
Overall, I think you really have to passionately love the G's idiosyncratic features to justify the expense.
I ended up in a G because I wanted a modern ladder frame SUV with solid axles. The only options for me were a 4 door wrangler unlimited, or the G. The problem with the wrangler is the lack of room in the back seat/cargo, and the towing capacity wouldnt be enough for our 5000lb boat/trailer.
In a word, difficult. It's the best looking car in the world, imo. But it's noisy in the cabin, not comfortable on long rides at more than 120km/hr (about 60m/hr) as cabin noise is high!! It's a bumpy ride. And the A/C just isn't good enough. It's expensive to maintain (like problem I'm having now on my 2010 G55 having to "change the A/C evaporator" as the garage claims, as a cost of about $3,800)! But the car just keeps tugging at your heart, so at the end, we buy those beauties, and it's difficult to let go. If you decide to sell, what other car matches it? None, imo.
We've had our 03 G500 for years. We love it, and take it on cross country road trips all the time. Yes it isn't as refined as maybe a new RR.
Tire selection is key for a good ride, and maintenance doesn't bother me too much. Window reg., oil cooler, door lock actuator, are some things I've replaced.
We've had our 03 G500 for years. We love it, and take it on cross country road trips all the time. Yes it isn't as refined as maybe a new RR.
Tire selection is key for a good ride, and maintenance doesn't bother me too much. Window reg., oil cooler, door lock actuator, are some things I've replaced.
But as you may know you're enjoying a good (or better) ride coz you're a G500 not the rock hard G55 or 63, coz of the shocks. Same goes for tires, in the fact the 18 rims have more options than the 19. But overall, a car to be had for sure
2013 G550 that I've owned since new. I love the looks, I love the sound, glad the 2013+ has all the luxury bits on the interior.
But it's small, seating is tight, doors are heavy, locks are loud, ride stinks, cabin noise is loud, and it loves gas (14.1 MPG lifetime for me)
Lots of tradeoffs for those looks and sound. About to trade it in for a Tesla Model X, a car who's looks and sound suck, but maybe they nailed everything else? Can't have it all!
We've had our 03 G500 for years. We love it, and take it on cross country road trips all the time. Yes it isn't as refined as maybe a new RR.
Tire selection is key for a good ride, and maintenance doesn't bother me too much. Window reg., oil cooler, door lock actuator, are some things I've replaced.
Curious, which tires and size do you have on your 03? I'll need a set in the next few months. thanks
I bought my G550 purely for its exterior aesthetics. I've had it for three years now and really miss my Range Rover. For the price, I'm just not that impressed. The vehicle lacks the interior comfort and smoothness of a RR. It's a clunky, roaring monster. When you open and close the door, it's like a bank vault. Some people love that about the G. Me, I like comfort. I never took the RR or the G off-road. I live in LA. I switched to the G because too many of my neighbors have the RR.
Overall, I think you really have to passionately love the G's idiosyncratic features to justify the expense.
If you live in LA, never go off-roading, and your main priority is comfort, why bother purchasing a G or a RR to begin with? Both are designed with off-roading in mind. The G has remained unchanged since the late 70s because its one of the best off road vehicles in stock form. For the cost, you get an amazing package that's one of the most luxurious rides you'll ever see in stock form taking on Moab without breaking a sweat.
If you never go off road and luxury is your top priority why not get a S class? Can't really go wrong with the comfort in that. Just saying.
I've been driving a G since 1984. I put 111,000 miles on a 1984 280GE and currently have a 2000 G500 that I purchased used with 22k miles. It currently has 89k miles.
I've driven both between Atlanta and AZ, CO and UT many times, and both have been been vibration free with excellent highway comfort at 70-80 mph on the Interstates.
The real key to comfort and vibration free is good maintenance and good balance of properly sized wheels and tires. The G500 currently has off-road tires that have been road force balanced, and they are great on the highway as well as off road.
Another extremely important key is to a comfortable ride is to stay the h*ll away from oversized wheels with low profile tires!
I've been driving a G since 1984. I put 111,000 miles on a 1984 280GE and currently have a 2000 G500 that I purchased used with 22k miles. It currently has 89k miles.
I've driven both between Atlanta and AZ, CO and UT many times, and both have been been vibration free with excellent highway comfort at 70-80 mph on the Interstates.
The real key to comfort and vibration free is good maintenance and good balance of properly sized wheels and tires. The G500 currently has off-road tires that have been road force balanced, and they are great on the highway as well as off road.
Another extremely important key is to a comfortable ride is to stay the h*ll away from oversized wheels with low profile tires!
Dutch- I'll need new tires soon. Thinking about going up a size 275/60/18. Thoughts on that or sticking to 265? Also which tire gives you best results for road and lite trail when needed? I see many use BFG but Im open to options.
Thoughts on cooper at3?
Thanks
Dutch- I'll need new tires soon. Thinking about going up a size 275/60/18. Thoughts on that or sticking to 265? Also which tire gives you best results for road and lite trail when needed? I see many use BFG but Im open to options.
Thoughts on cooper at3?
Thanks
I currently have LT265/75R16 Yokohama Geolandar A/T-S in a D Load Rate. The LT tires have much deeper tread depth than a P-metric tire, a much stronger sidewall and they wear like iron. I also like the higher aspect ratio number (75), as this puts more rubber between me and the road.
You'll have to see what is available in an 18" tire that's compatible with your G. Just keep in mind that, when you increase the tire size, you can irritate the ESP which can drive you nuts with over reaction.
Dutch- I'll need new tires soon. Thinking about going up a size 275/60/18. Thoughts on that or sticking to 265? Also which tire gives you best results for road and lite trail when needed? I see many use BFG but Im open to options.
Thoughts on cooper at3?
Thanks
I recently switched to 265/70R18 BFG K02's, and the ride is so much better from the added rubber. I dont rub with that size , but some have said they did so results may vary.
Quick Update - my local dealer had several G63's / G550's in stock to I went for a couple test drives yesterday.
The first round was a 2014 G63 $121k with 9k on the odo and I was wowed by the power this beast has. The around town driving was great - comfortable, handling was fine for city use, no issue parking but the big chrome ring around the spare is a bit distracting when backing up. (Birds eye view & lines would have been great) Highway speeds are another story all together. I found the steering a bit twitchy, the wind noise was LOUD but again the power was effortless. If they had active voice cancelation like our Escalade that would be awesome. This particular unit had some annoying creaks/rattles in the rear of the cabin I couldn't locate.
2016 G63 $148k - Essentially the same ride with better back-up camera. No rattles or creaks and a phenomenal torque monster. Loved the rig but when sitting comfortably in the drivers seat there is essentially zero room in the back seat. I was shocked - my 13 year old couldn't fit back there.
2016 G550 $121k - similar comments as above less the torque monster feeling. More than enough power for everyday driving but a serious step down from the G63. In looking at the G550 / G63 side by side there really isn't much difference other than the AMG badge and the side pipes. The uprights on the G63 are black vs chrome on the G550.
Bottom line for our family is the G wagon just doesn't work in any configuration which I am terrible disappointed in as I just dig this rig. Nothing else like it on the road for sure. Thanks to all that have commented as I really appreciated your perspective. Looked hard at a 2016 GLE 63 S and WOW...that may be my next rig. Balance of power 577hp and creature comforts of seating, space, active curve, etc... This rig is stunning without the side steps as it totally changes the lined of the car. Dealer was working hard on last day of the month to earn my business but I just couldn't pull the trigger on a $115k purchase with only 3 hours to think about it. I'll be back for sure...
Soon: 2020 G63 Currently: 2016 GLE63 SUV + 97 F250HD, Before: 2013 G550, Range Rover Sport, 1984 CJ7
Originally Posted by Pntblnk
Quick Update - my local dealer had several G63's / G550's in stock to I went for a couple test drives yesterday.
The first round was a 2014 G63 $121k with 9k on the odo and I was wowed by the power this beast has. The around town driving was great - comfortable, handling was fine for city use, no issue parking but the big chrome ring around the spare is a bit distracting when backing up. (Birds eye view & lines would have been great) Highway speeds are another story all together. I found the steering a bit twitchy, the wind noise was LOUD but again the power was effortless. If they had active voice cancelation like our Escalade that would be awesome. This particular unit had some annoying creaks/rattles in the rear of the cabin I couldn't locate.
2016 G63 $148k - Essentially the same ride with better back-up camera. No rattles or creaks and a phenomenal torque monster. Loved the rig but when sitting comfortably in the drivers seat there is essentially zero room in the back seat. I was shocked - my 13 year old couldn't fit back there.
2016 G550 $121k - similar comments as above less the torque monster feeling. More than enough power for everyday driving but a serious step down from the G63. In looking at the G550 / G63 side by side there really isn't much difference other than the AMG badge and the side pipes. The uprights on the G63 are black vs chrome on the G550.
Bottom line for our family is the G wagon just doesn't work in any configuration which I am terrible disappointed in as I just dig this rig. Nothing else like it on the road for sure. Thanks to all that have commented as I really appreciated your perspective. Looked hard at a 2016 GLE 63 S and WOW...that may be my next rig. Balance of power 577hp and creature comforts of seating, space, active curve, etc... This rig is stunning without the side steps as it totally changes the lined of the car. Dealer was working hard on last day of the month to earn my business but I just couldn't pull the trigger on a $115k purchase with only 3 hours to think about it. I'll be back for sure...
It was with much regret that I traded in my G550 for a GLE63Suv. I loved the G550 more than any car I have ever owned. But I ultimately had to part with it. I love love love the AMG GLE, but it will never replace the square box love I have for the g550. One day when I can afford to garage spots in manhattan I will keep a G for city driving and off roading in VT.
I needed the GLE because I do alot of driving on the highway at speeds over 65MPH+. The G felt like I was driving a train off its tracks hah.
I needed the GLE because I do alot of driving on the highway at speeds over 65MPH+. The G felt like I was driving a train off its tracks hah.
Your G must not have been set up properly. I drive my 2000 G500 with 90k miles on the clock regularly at 75-80 mph on the highway, and it is smooth as silk.
Soon: 2020 G63 Currently: 2016 GLE63 SUV + 97 F250HD, Before: 2013 G550, Range Rover Sport, 1984 CJ7
Sorry should have clarified better. The G could literally FLY on the highway at 90MPH well. I just always felt me G was pulling me slightly to the left or right, off the road. The steering was always in need of minor course correctly (2013 model), So it was less the speed, it was more the 50miles+ length of the drive that bothered me over time. (the dealer let me (basically made me) take out two other Gs to stop my constant harassing him about the steering).
It's was just a personal thing for me as a lazy guy on long highway drives. It required more input than i'd like to give. But to others it is part of the charm. I miss it.
Soon: 2020 G63 Currently: 2016 GLE63 SUV + 97 F250HD, Before: 2013 G550, Range Rover Sport, 1984 CJ7
Originally Posted by DUTCH
If your dealer is MB Manhattan, I understand. I've heard some pretty horrific stories about how how they service a G.
No G owner is silly enough to take a G there. The place is a hack shop. I regretted changing my oil there. I'd take my to the classic center on 72nd. They have a guy there who is pretty experienced with the G.
Still - The best service I found though was here on this forum
03-04-2016, 06:55 PM
