2019 Mercedes-Benz G550

It may not look like it at first glance, but the legendary G-Wagen has been given a thorough redesign for 2019. The new model has improved on many of the previous generation's flaws but remains true to its roots. For example, the previous G-Wagen contained exposed screws in its turn signals and reflectors, but that is no longer the case with the new model. There is little to no panel gap in the new model compared to the old one. The backup camera in the new G-Wagen is hidden below its spare tire instead of being tacked on above the rear window like in the old model. The rear wiper is now at the base of the rear window covered by the spare tire instead of the top of the rear window exposed to the elements. The third brake light in the new model is integrated into the design of the car unlike the previous one, which had its third brake light mounted from inside the vehicle. Other new G-Wagen improvements consist of proper cup holders, a traditional glove box, and an electronic parking brake. Some of the flaws listed here aren't a big deal to me, but I like how Mercedes-Benz cleaned up the design of the new G-Wagen compared to the previous model.

Powering the new G550 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 making 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. It goes from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds and offers a 9-speed automatic gearbox, replacing the 7-speed automatic in the previous model. Its interior has been modernized with the rest of the car, containing more technology and less clutter. The 2019 G550 carries a starting price of $124,500, with options and packages quickly escalating the price from there. Despite often being used as a status symbol, the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen is one of the best SUVs currently available. Its eye-catching, go-anywhere abilities are practically unmatched. I would choose the G-Wagen over the Range Rover but have a tough time picking between the G-Wagen and the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

Featured here are photos I took of the previous G-Wagen this year to physically compare the two models.