Hi Guys,
New to the forum here . I started looking into G wagons and wanted to pick one up. I started out thinking the best one to get wa the diesel model or any pre 80's model (because of the electronics or the lack of it) , but i started running into concerns out here in CA and registering it or getting it past the CARB. If you guys had to pick a model , which would it be. Just a ordinary G 500 , the G 550 ??? Your 2 c's appreciated. Best

I have very little experience with Gs as I have my first on order now; however, the general rule of thumb is to buy the newest one you can afford, which I assume applies to these as well. But if someone is looking for one that does not have all of the creature comforts that the newer ones have an older model may suit you better.

Just bought a 2018 G63 and have an order for 2021 G63. Honestly I am considering cancelling my order for 2021 G63 since I am not a fan of all these electronics.
Too much elecronics now in all cars.. 2018 G is just fine.

For what it's worth, I prefer the rugged simplicity of the early Gs. Even if that were not the case, I would still be hesitant about the new G because there still seem to a lot issues that need to be worked out with the new design.

How far back would you go. I was thinking the 2008 model seems to be OK . I think bi-turbos are nice and good , but i don't really want to be dealing with that much HP and the problems that come with it

For me, I would go with something from a late 2007 build (with the updated instrument panel) or a 2008 or a 2013 through 2015. The later '07 and '08 have an updated transmission and a somewhat updated (instrument cluster) interior and still have a trailer hitch. No hitch is available for the '09 - '12 models (which if that isn't a need that you have, they would be fine). The '13 - '15s have a hitch again with a really updated interior, but still the same engine and transmission. The only downside to the really updated interior is that you only get one cup holder and it is on the passenger side. Starting with 2016 you get the twin turbo, auto start stop (which I hate) setup and a lot more complexity and electronics associated with the drive train. A 2018 might be okay because you get Car Play and a better nav display, but I'm not sure it's worth the price premium (both initial cost and maintenance cost). For me, the current sweet spot is '13 - '15.

2016 -2018 G63.

The G63 got a power bump and some suspension tweaks in 2016.

I had a 2016 G63 and have a 2020 G550.

The 2020 G550 lacks a lot of the charm (and fun) of the 16 G63. It’s not just the power. It’s also in the way the truck leans and sways in the corners and under power (a lot like a Miata is meant to lean in the corners).

With a baby on the way, I could use the space and extra safety features of the 20 G550 and will stick with it.