Why doesn't Merc offer a proper off road package?
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2015 SL550, 2017 GLS 550, 2010 G550, 1995 E320 Cabriolet
Why doesn't Merc offer a proper off road package?
I mean a lift + chunky tires (34"-35"), some proper aux lamps (Light cannons), maybe even a GLS trick suspension? The "off road package" offered for the 63 is very underwhelming. I'm starting to look into getting a new G550 and I'd love a proper factory lift job rather than me having to do it myself through the aftermarket.
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G550
I mean a lift + chunky tires (34"-35"), some proper aux lamps (Light cannons), maybe even a GLS trick suspension? The "off road package" offered for the 63 is very underwhelming. I'm starting to look into getting a new G550 and I'd love a proper factory lift job rather than me having to do it myself through the aftermarket.
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G63, G65
I think the vast majority of G class owners in the US never go more off road than jumping a curb to get into a parking lot. For the US market, the sales volume of the off road package is likely so small that they didn't want to put too much R&D into modifying their platform. Cost versus return just isn't there.
That being said, I totally agree they could stand to put on a small (30-50mm) lift and put a better off-road oriented tire/wheel package on their "off road" package.
That being said, I totally agree they could stand to put on a small (30-50mm) lift and put a better off-road oriented tire/wheel package on their "off road" package.
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From: Colorado
G550
I think the vast majority of G class owners in the US never go more off road than jumping a curb to get into a parking lot. For the US market, the sales volume of the off road package is likely so small that they didn't want to put too much R&D into modifying their platform. Cost versus return just isn't there.
That being said, I totally agree they could stand to put on a small (30-50mm) lift and put a better off-road oriented tire/wheel package on their "off road" package.
That being said, I totally agree they could stand to put on a small (30-50mm) lift and put a better off-road oriented tire/wheel package on their "off road" package.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Oct 2017
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2015 SL550, 2017 GLS 550, 2010 G550, 1995 E320 Cabriolet
I think the vast majority of G class owners in the US never go more off road than jumping a curb to get into a parking lot. For the US market, the sales volume of the off road package is likely so small that they didn't want to put too much R&D into modifying their platform. Cost versus return just isn't there.
That being said, I totally agree they could stand to put on a small (30-50mm) lift and put a better off-road oriented tire/wheel package on their "off road" package.
That being said, I totally agree they could stand to put on a small (30-50mm) lift and put a better off-road oriented tire/wheel package on their "off road" package.
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No question MB should be mounting a better tire than Pirelli Scorpion A/S's. But 2" of suspension lift and 2" of extra tire height will change any vehicle's handling. I've never considered doing this to my Jeep or my G because of (a) unknown laws that vary state-to-state regarding lifting, (b) impact on manufacturer warranty, and (c) insurance coverage for modified vehicles. I remain OE and boring.
It would be an option so anyone selecting this option would be aware of the liabilities related to a taller ride.
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G63, G65
I completely agree. However, something in their research says it's not a money maker for them. Too much cost vs. reward I'm sure. That's why I'm thankful for the aftermarket. I haven't left a G Wagon stock ever!
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Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 699
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2015 SL550, 2017 GLS 550, 2010 G550, 1995 E320 Cabriolet
Super Member
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G63, G65
fresh service done last week and ready for purchase!
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2020 Toyota Land Cruiser Heritage Edition
All a stock G really needs is better tires and maybe a winch (and appropriate mount for it). Otherwise, it’s a very capable platform stock. The type of off reading you intend to do will influence what else might be needed, but big lifts aren’t always a plus.
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No more MB:(
I've taken my stock 63 off roading and did fine. However I definitely could have benefited from better tires and a couple more inches of clearance when doing some rock crawling. Two inches can make all the difference. No more rock crawling for me, too nerve racking, barely came away unscathed.
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2002 G500 thulit red
nobody complains about a Ferrari having not enough space for the luggage of an average family.
If you think your G is not capable - do some off-road training.
Its usually the inexperienced driver not the underachiving vehicle
If you think your G is not capable - do some off-road training.
Its usually the inexperienced driver not the underachiving vehicle
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No more MB:(
Take it easy! No one is complaining, we're just discussing the viability of an off road package for the G. No one is questioning it's capabilities or calling it under achieving. I just think some people would like a two inch lift and an off road tire package that came from the factory. I know I would feel better taking mine off road with a slight lift on it.
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2020 Toyota Land Cruiser Heritage Edition
Take it easy! No one is complaining, we're just discussing the viability of an off road package for the G. No one is questioning it's capabilities or calling it under achieving. I just think some people would like a two inch lift and an off road tire package that came from the factory. I know I would feel better taking mine off road with a slight lift on it.
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From: Washington DC
No more MB:(
The problem is that a "one-size-fits-most" type of package, which is the best you guys could possibly hope for, simply isn't going to satisfy too many people. Those who just want it for looks are going to have different priorities than those who want it for rock crawling who are going to have different priorities than the overlanding crowd and so on. Then there's the factor of how many people are going to spend +/-$150K on a vehicle and actually take it off road - very, very few will. My take is that the viability of offering something resembling a "true" off road package just isn't worth it for them - it's got to be something they've considered unless they're complete idiots (unlikely).
On a secondary note, interesting how many people opt for the increased speed limit option as if they are going to actually take it to 149 (or whatever it is).
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2020 Toyota Land Cruiser Heritage Edition
Yeah, I don’t see the point in paying extra for that option as the idea of going that fast in a G isn’t something I would find fun. But I can see why MB offers it since it’s mostly the matter of flipping a switch for them, so it’s really easy money maker for them. It also may render the insurance concerns over an off road option moot as the insurance implications of going that fast in a G should be a bigger concern.
