Few vehicles have managed to stay relevant for more than four decades without losing their identity, yet the 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class continues to do exactly that. In an automotive world obsessed with sleek aerodynamics, futuristic styling, and constant reinvention, the G-Class remains unapologetically boxy, upright, and instantly recognizable. It is one of the rare vehicles that can be identified from hundreds of feet away, whether parked outside a luxury hotel or climbing a remote mountain trail.
What makes the G-Class so fascinating is that its reputation was never built on luxury alone. Long before celebrities, athletes, and executives turned it into a status symbol, the original G-Wagen was designed as a serious off-road machine. It was created to survive harsh environments, military service, and difficult terrain. Over time, Mercedes-Benz transformed that rugged foundation into one of the most desirable luxury SUVs on the planet without completely abandoning the engineering principles that made it famous in the first place.
The 2022 model represents the modern interpretation of that philosophy. It delivers the handcrafted quality, advanced technology, and premium materials expected from a six-figure Mercedes-Benz while still offering genuine off-road hardware that many competitors can only imitate. Three locking differentials, a low-range transfer case, substantial ground clearance, and a body-on-frame-inspired toughness remain part of the formula. In an era when many luxury SUVs prioritize appearance over capability, the G-Class continues to offer both.
Of course, capability is only part of the story. For many buyers, the G-Class has become something much larger than transportation. It is a statement vehicle. The unmistakable shape, distinctive door slam, exposed spare tire, and commanding driving position create an ownership experience unlike anything else in the luxury SUV segment. Few vehicles communicate success and exclusivity with the same confidence.
Under the hood, the 2022 lineup offers serious power regardless of trim. The G550 provides a twin-turbocharged V8 with effortless acceleration and refined road manners, while the AMG G63 transforms the G-Class into a high-performance luxury SUV capable of shocking acceleration despite weighing nearly three tons. The result is a vehicle that feels equally comfortable cruising through city streets, crossing long highway distances, or tackling challenging off-road conditions.
The biggest challenge facing the G-Class is not performance, luxury, or capability. It is value. The SUV commands a price that places it among the most expensive vehicles in its class, and its fuel economy is far from impressive. Yet buyers continue to line up for one simple reason: there is still nothing else quite like it. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is not merely another luxury SUV. It is an automotive icon that has successfully evolved without losing the character that made it legendary.
Our Take
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class occupies a unique position in the luxury SUV market. It is not the most spacious option, the most efficient option, or even the most technologically advanced SUV available for the money. Yet none of those shortcomings seem to matter because the G-Class delivers something many competitors cannot: character.
What separates the G-Class from rivals such as the Range Rover, BMW X7, and Cadillac Escalade is its authenticity. This is not an SUV designed to look rugged while spending its life on paved roads. Beneath the luxury and prestige lies genuine off-road engineering that remains largely untouched by marketing gimmicks. That authenticity gives the G-Class a sense of purpose that many luxury SUVs struggle to match.
For buyers seeking an SUV that combines exclusivity, V8 performance, handcrafted luxury, and legendary design, the G-Class remains one of the most desirable vehicles money can buy. It is expensive and undeniably excessive, but that is precisely why so many people love it.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Iconic design that remains instantly recognizable.
- Powerful twin-turbocharged V8 engines across the lineup.
- Exceptional off-road capability with three locking differentials.
- Luxurious cabin with premium materials throughout.
- Strong resale value and enduring desirability.
- Commanding driving position and outstanding visibility.
Cons
- Extremely expensive compared to most luxury SUVs.
- Fuel economy remains poor, especially in the AMG G63.
- Noticeable wind noise at highway speeds.
- Cargo space is smaller than some competitors.
- Infotainment system feels dated compared to newer Mercedes models.
What’s New for 2022
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class enters the model year with relatively few major changes, which is hardly surprising given that the second-generation model remains one of the most sought-after luxury SUVs in the world. Mercedes-Benz focused on refining an already successful formula rather than introducing significant redesigns.
The biggest news continues to be the availability of both the G550 and the performance-oriented AMG G63. The G550 remains powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 producing 416 horsepower, while the AMG G63 retains its handcrafted AMG-tuned version of the same engine, delivering an impressive 577 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.
Mercedes also continues to offer extensive customization options through its G manufaktur program. Buyers can choose from a wide range of exclusive paint colors, interior materials, wheel designs, and luxury upgrades, allowing each G-Class to feel highly personalized. This level of customization helps explain why the G-Class remains as much a lifestyle statement as it is a luxury SUV.
Although newer Mercedes models have adopted the latest MBUX infotainment system, the 2022 G-Class largely continues with its existing setup. While it may not offer every modern digital feature found elsewhere in the lineup, the overall ownership experience remains focused on timeless design, V8 performance, and unmatched road presence rather than chasing the latest technology trends.
Exterior Design
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class proves that great design does not always require constant reinvention. While most luxury SUVs have adopted sleek curves and aerodynamic shapes, the G-Class remains proudly faithful to its roots. The upright windshield, flat body panels, exposed door hinges, and externally mounted spare tire all create a silhouette that has become one of the most recognizable in the automotive world.
Mercedes-Benz wisely resisted the temptation to modernize the G-Class beyond recognition. Instead, designers refined the details while preserving the vehicle’s unmistakable character. LED lighting, modern wheel designs, and cleaner body surfacing help the SUV feel contemporary without losing its heritage. Even people who know very little about cars can immediately identify a G-Class from a distance.
The proportions also contribute to its appeal. The tall roofline, broad stance, and nearly vertical body create an imposing presence that few luxury SUVs can match. Whether parked outside a luxury resort or navigating downtown traffic, the G-Class naturally attracts attention without relying on flashy styling tricks.
The AMG G63 takes the design a step further with a more aggressive front fascia, larger wheels, distinctive AMG grille treatments, and side-mounted exhaust outlets that have become one of the model’s defining features. These additions enhance the visual drama without compromising the timeless look that has made the G-Class an icon for more than four decades.
Driving Experience
Driving the 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is unlike driving almost any other modern luxury SUV. Despite extensive engineering improvements introduced with the current generation, the G-Class still feels deliberately different. The upright seating position provides an exceptional view of the road, while the squared-off body makes it surprisingly easy to place in traffic despite its considerable size.
One of the biggest improvements over older generations is ride quality. Previous G-Class models often felt truck-like and uncompromising on pavement. The modern version remains solid and substantial but delivers a far more refined experience. The suspension absorbs bumps with impressive composure, and the vehicle feels significantly more comfortable during daily driving than many people expect.
The steering is also more precise than before, giving drivers greater confidence when maneuvering through city streets or on winding roads. That said, physics cannot be completely ignored. The G-Class remains a tall and heavy SUV, and drivers will notice body movement during aggressive cornering. It never feels unsafe, but it does remind occupants that this is a vehicle designed with capability and durability in mind rather than sports-car agility.
Highway travel is where the G-Class reveals another side of its personality. The cabin is quiet, the seats are exceptionally supportive, and the elevated driving position makes long journeys feel effortless. Wind noise is more noticeable than in some streamlined luxury SUVs, particularly at higher speeds, but it is a small compromise given the vehicle’s distinctive shape.
Off the pavement, the G-Class becomes truly impressive. Few luxury SUVs can match its combination of ground clearance, low-range gearing, and three locking differentials. Whether facing steep inclines, rocky trails, mud, or deep sand, the G-Class possesses a level of mechanical capability that most competitors simply cannot replicate. Even though many owners may never explore these limits, it is reassuring to know the capability genuinely exists.
Performance & Acceleration
Performance is a major part of the G-Class experience, especially considering the vehicle’s size and weight. The standard G550 uses a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 producing 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Power delivery is smooth, immediate, and effortless, allowing the SUV to accelerate with surprising urgency despite weighing well over 5,500 pounds.
The nine-speed automatic transmission deserves praise as well. Gear changes are quick and refined, helping the engine remain responsive whether cruising on the highway or accelerating away from traffic lights. The drivetrain never feels strained, and there is always plenty of reserve power available.
For buyers seeking maximum performance, the AMG G63 sits in a league of its own. Its handcrafted AMG twin-turbocharged V8 generates an astonishing 577 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, transforming the boxy SUV into one of the quickest vehicles in its segment. Acceleration feels almost absurd for a vehicle of this size, with a 0-to-60 mph time of roughly four seconds.
Perhaps even more memorable than the acceleration is the soundtrack. The AMG exhaust system delivers a deep, aggressive V8 rumble that perfectly complements the G63’s larger-than-life personality. Every start-up, gear change, and throttle input reminds drivers that this is not merely a luxury SUV. It is a high-performance machine wrapped in one of the most iconic automotive designs ever created.
Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement
Considering its military-inspired roots and serious off-road hardware, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class delivers an impressively refined ride. Mercedes-Benz engineers managed to preserve the SUV’s rugged personality while dramatically improving on-road comfort compared to previous generations. The result is a luxury SUV that feels far more civilized than its boxy appearance might suggest.
Around town, the suspension does an excellent job absorbing rough pavement, potholes, and expansion joints. Occupants rarely feel harsh impacts, and the vehicle maintains a composed demeanor even on less-than-perfect roads. The G-Class never feels soft or disconnected, but it strikes a balance that suits its luxury positioning remarkably well.
Long-distance travel is one of the G-Class’s hidden strengths. The seats provide excellent support for extended drives, while the elevated seating position reduces fatigue and offers outstanding visibility. Drivers sit high above traffic, creating a sense of confidence that few SUVs can match.
Cabin isolation is generally excellent. Road noise is well controlled, and the V8 engine remains quiet during relaxed cruising. The only notable compromise comes from the vehicle’s upright design. At highway speeds, some wind noise becomes noticeable around the mirrors and windshield. While competitors such as the Range Rover may feel slightly quieter, the difference is hardly enough to diminish the G-Class experience.
For readers comparing luxury SUVs, you may also want to explore our Mercedes-Benz GLS 2023 Review and Lincoln Aviator Review, both of which offer different approaches to premium comfort and family-friendly luxury. Those looking for official specifications and ownership information can also visit Mercedes-Benz’s official G-Class page.
Interior & Luxury Feel
Step inside the 2022 G-Class and it becomes immediately clear why this SUV commands such a premium price. The cabin successfully blends traditional G-Wagen character with the craftsmanship expected from a flagship Mercedes-Benz product. It feels expensive from every angle, with high-quality materials covering nearly every surface occupants touch.
Leather upholstery, genuine metal trim, available open-pore wood finishes, and beautifully crafted controls create an environment that rivals many luxury sedans. Unlike some modern interiors that rely heavily on screens and minimalism, the G-Class still feels substantial and mechanical in the best possible way. Buttons click with precision, switches feel solid, and every interaction reinforces the vehicle’s sense of quality.
Front-seat comfort is exceptional. The seats provide generous cushioning and support while offering extensive adjustment ranges. Available features such as heating, ventilation, and massage functions further elevate the experience. Finding a comfortable driving position is effortless regardless of body type.
Rear-seat passengers also benefit from the current generation’s increased dimensions. While the G-Class is not as spacious as some full-size luxury SUVs, adults can comfortably spend long periods in the second row. Headroom is particularly impressive thanks to the SUV’s tall roofline, which contributes to the airy feel throughout the cabin.
What truly separates the G-Class from many rivals is its sense of occasion. Every journey feels special. The upright windows, commanding seating position, signature door handles, and unmistakable view over the squared-off hood constantly remind occupants they are traveling in something unique rather than just another luxury SUV.
Technology & Infotainment
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offers a strong collection of technology features, although some areas show their age compared to newer Mercedes-Benz models. The centerpiece of the dashboard is a large 12.3-inch infotainment display paired with a matching digital instrument cluster, creating a premium and modern appearance.
The system includes navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration, voice commands, and access to Mercedes me connected services. The graphics remain attractive, and the screen itself is bright and easy to read in various lighting conditions.
However, the G-Class does not fully benefit from the latest version of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system found in newer products. As a result, some features and user-interface elements feel less advanced than what buyers might experience in newer Mercedes sedans and SUVs.
Fortunately, everyday usability remains strong. Physical controls are still available for many key functions, reducing the need to navigate through endless touchscreen menus while driving. This combination of digital displays and traditional controls makes the G-Class easier to use than many technology-heavy competitors.
Audiophiles will appreciate the available Burmester surround-sound system, which delivers impressive clarity and depth throughout the cabin. Whether listening to music, podcasts, or navigation instructions, the audio experience matches the premium atmosphere of the vehicle and reinforces its flagship status.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy has never been a primary selling point of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, and the 2022 model does little to change that reality. Buyers are paying for power, prestige, capability, and presence rather than efficiency. Still, anyone considering ownership should understand what to expect at the pump.
The G550 delivers EPA estimates of approximately 17 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. Those numbers are respectable considering the vehicle’s size, permanent four-wheel-drive system, and twin-turbocharged V8 engine, but they lag behind many modern luxury SUVs that prioritize efficiency.
The AMG G63 pushes performance to another level, and fuel consumption reflects that. EPA ratings drop to roughly 13 mpg city and 16 mpg highway. In real-world driving, especially when enjoying the AMG’s thunderous acceleration and exhaust note, fuel economy can easily fall into the low-teens.
For most G-Class buyers, however, these figures are unlikely to be deal-breakers. The reality is that the G-Class appeals to customers seeking a unique ownership experience rather than maximum miles per gallon. If fuel savings are a top priority, there are far better options within the luxury SUV segment.
Practicality & Cargo Space
At first glance, the 2022 G-Class appears enormous. Its tall roofline, upright body, and commanding stance create the impression of unlimited interior room. In practice, however, the SUV is somewhat less spacious than its exterior dimensions suggest.
The cargo area provides enough room for luggage, grocery runs, and weekend road trips, but competitors such as the Range Rover, Cadillac Escalade, and Mercedes-Benz GLS offer more outright storage capacity. The G-Class prioritizes design heritage and off-road engineering over maximizing every cubic inch of interior space.
Rear-seat passengers enjoy generous headroom thanks to the vehicle’s boxy shape, while legroom is comfortable for most adults. Families will have little trouble fitting child seats or accommodating passengers during longer journeys, although some rivals offer a more expansive second-row experience.
Loading larger items can also require some effort. The cargo floor sits relatively high, and the side-hinged rear door carrying the full-size spare tire is significantly heavier than a conventional liftgate. While it reinforces the G-Class’s rugged personality, it is not always the most convenient solution in tight parking spaces.
Ultimately, practicality is good rather than class-leading. The G-Class offers enough everyday usability for most owners while maintaining the distinctive character that makes it so desirable in the first place.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Mercedes-Benz equips the 2022 G-Class with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies that help justify its premium positioning. While the SUV’s substantial size and robust construction already inspire confidence, the available driver-assistance systems add an important layer of protection during everyday driving.
Standard and available features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, and automatic high-beam headlights. Together, these systems help reduce driver workload during both city commuting and long-distance highway travel.
One of the most useful technologies is Mercedes-Benz’s adaptive cruise control system, which smoothly adjusts speed based on surrounding traffic. Combined with lane-centering assistance, it makes highway journeys noticeably less stressful and contributes to the SUV’s premium touring character.
Visibility is another strength. The upright seating position, large windows, and commanding view of the road make it easier to monitor surrounding traffic than in many modern SUVs with heavily sloped rooflines and smaller glass areas. The available 360-degree camera system further improves confidence when maneuvering in tight urban environments.
It is worth noting that the G-Class has not been subjected to the same volume of public crash-testing as many mainstream SUVs. However, Mercedes-Benz has built its reputation on engineering excellence and occupant protection, and the G-Class benefits from the brand’s extensive safety expertise.
For buyers who prioritize advanced safety technology alongside luxury and capability, the 2022 G-Class remains highly competitive. It combines traditional mechanical toughness with modern electronic assistance systems, creating an SUV that feels secure whether navigating crowded city streets or venturing far beyond the pavement.
Competitors Worth Considering
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class occupies a unique corner of the luxury SUV market, but that does not mean buyers should ignore its competitors. Depending on your priorities, several alternatives may offer a better balance of luxury, performance, technology, or value.
The Range Rover is perhaps the G-Class’s closest rival. It delivers exceptional luxury, superior ride comfort, and a more modern cabin while maintaining impressive off-road capability. Buyers looking for a refined grand-touring experience may find the Range Rover more appealing.
The BMW X7 takes a different approach by focusing on driving dynamics, interior space, and advanced technology. It lacks the G-Class’s iconic presence but offers a more practical package for families who want luxury without sacrificing everyday usability.
Mercedes-Benz’s own GLS-Class is another strong alternative. It provides three-row seating, a quieter ride, more cargo space, and a lower entry price while still delivering the premium experience expected from the brand.
For buyers seeking maximum performance, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and Lamborghini Urus offer sports-car-like handling and breathtaking acceleration. However, neither vehicle possesses the G-Class’s legendary heritage or unmistakable character.
Ultimately, the G-Class remains the choice for buyers who value exclusivity, timeless design, and authentic off-road credentials above all else.
Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?
While the AMG G63 receives most of the attention, the G550 is actually the trim we would recommend to most buyers.
The standard twin-turbocharged V8 already delivers impressive acceleration, strong towing capability, and effortless highway performance. It retains the iconic G-Class experience while offering a slightly more comfortable and balanced driving character than the AMG model.
The G550 also leaves room in the budget for desirable options such as upgraded interior materials, premium paint colors, advanced driver-assistance features, and the highly recommended G manufaktur packages. For many buyers, those upgrades will enhance daily ownership more than the AMG’s additional horsepower.
The AMG G63 remains the dream specification for enthusiasts who want maximum performance and the unmistakable AMG soundtrack. If budget is not a concern, it delivers one of the most outrageous luxury SUV experiences available today.
Still, for the best overall balance of luxury, performance, comfort, and value within the lineup, the G550 earns Cardrav’s recommendation.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is not a rational purchase, and that is exactly why it remains so desirable.
There are luxury SUVs that offer more space. Others provide better fuel economy, more advanced technology, smoother ride quality, or lower ownership costs. On paper, many competitors appear to make more sense.
Yet the G-Class is one of those rare vehicles that transcends specifications. It combines genuine off-road capability, handcrafted luxury, V8 power, and a design that has remained relevant for more than forty years. Every drive feels special, every arrival feels memorable, and every detail reinforces the sense that you are operating something truly unique.
For buyers seeking the most logical luxury SUV, there are better choices. For buyers seeking one of the most iconic and desirable SUVs ever built, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class remains exceptionally difficult to resist.
FAQ
Is the 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class a real off-road vehicle?
Yes. Unlike many luxury SUVs that focus primarily on appearance, the G-Class features a low-range transfer case and three locking differentials. It remains one of the most capable factory-built off-road luxury SUVs available.
What is the difference between the G550 and the AMG G63?
The G550 uses a 416-horsepower twin-turbocharged V8 and focuses on balanced luxury and performance. The AMG G63 increases output to 577 horsepower while adding sportier suspension tuning, more aggressive styling, and a significantly louder exhaust system.
Is the 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class comfortable for daily driving?
Absolutely. The current-generation G-Class is dramatically more refined than previous versions. It offers a comfortable ride, supportive seats, premium materials, and advanced technology suitable for everyday use.
Does the G-Class hold its value well?
Yes. The G-Class has historically been one of the strongest luxury vehicles in terms of resale value. High demand, limited production, and its iconic reputation help it maintain value better than many competitors.
Is the 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class worth buying over a Range Rover?
That depends on your priorities. The Range Rover offers a smoother ride and more modern luxury experience, while the G-Class provides a more distinctive design, stronger heritage, and a unique blend of prestige and authentic off-road capability.
