2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: A Modern Tradition
The problem we see with vehicle that are older and built to look and feel like older models is the need to add the modern features that make a difference in our driving enjoyment. Thankfully, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a masterpiece of modern day technology that’s married with a traditional feel. This SUV is in its 38th year in production and has been one of the most imposing and impressive SUVs on the road and trails for many years. This is a vehicle that can easily handle the challenges of heading out into the wilderness for you, even though most people who make use of the G-Class will never leave the paved roads.
For this new model year the G-Class adds a new off road trim to enhance the possibility of you leaving the paved pathways. This new trim is called the G550 4×4 and is raised 17 inches, has been widened by nine inches and offers portal axles, three locking differential and a permanent AWD system. This equipment makes the new G550 4×4 one of the most impressive SUVs you can drive and enjoy on the trails that you haven’t yet found a way to explore. The standard G-Class models add improvements to the smartphone connectivity, the desgino and the AMG packages.
Under the hood of the G-Class you’ll find three different engines to give you the power you want. Starting with the G550 and G550 4×4 you’ll have the benefit of the 4.0-liter twin turbocharged V8 engine that provides you with 416 horsepower and 450 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is attached to a seven-speed automatic transmission that’s shared by all engines of this SUV. For this powertrain you’ll have a great ride and the low end power you want to cut through the brush and get where you need to go.
Moving up the trim levels you see two different engines for the two AMG models. Firs is the 5.5-liter twin turbocharged V8 of the AMG G63 which brings you 563 horsepower an 561 lb.-ft. of torque. At the top level you can enjoy the 6.0-liter twin turbocharged V12 engine for the AMG G65 which shows up with 621 horsepower and 738 lb.-ft. of torque. The transmission of the AMG models is a Speedshift Plus version that gives you better shift points for the ride you want and the power deliver you’re looking for from this SUV.
The G-Class SUV is a beast on the road and it provides you with the feeling that you’re one of the most successful people in your industry. This SUV can carry and bring anything you need for the adventures you have while giving you the luxury ride you’re after. It’s certainly not a cheap vehicle at all, but its well worth the price you pay for it when you’re looking for something with the high class style that Mercedes-Benz offers you in the G-Class for the drive and excitement you want to enjoy on the road.
Speaking of features, even the base model of this SUV shows up with more than you’ll find on some top trims of other vehicles. The G550 comes with a power sunroof, dual zone climate controls, the Mercedes COMAND system which gives you a navigation system, the Harman/Kardon premium audio system, Bluetooth wireless connecting, blind spot monitoring, a rearview camera, the Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, heated and ventilated front seats and a leather and wood interior for your enjoyment. This is certainly the fully loaded base model that can give you the ride you’re looking for and the equipment you want to enjoy on the road or trails.
Moving up to the options packages the G63 will give you 20-inch wheels, a high performance braking system, a sport exhaust and the designo wood and leather interior upgrades. The G65 provides you with a Nappa leather interior, 21-inch wheels, a rear seat entertainment system with two LCD monitors, a heated steering wheel and an electronically adjustable suspension. You can choose some stand-alone options such as the mbrace subscription which is the suite of mobile apps that bring in concierge services and much more to make this the classiest ride you’ve ever had, especially in a large SUV that’s been around for nearly four decades.
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