2009 Mercedes-Benz G-Class in Gretna, NE - $34,988

For 30 years, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been acclaimed as the industry's most rugged and iconic sport utility vehicle. First developed for military duty and still called the Geländewagen in Europe (for "over-land vehicle"), the G-Class is a no-compromise off-roader with a cliff-climbing, stump-pulling personality. Handcrafted at a special manufacturing facility in Graz, Austria, the G-Class can climb grades up to 36 degrees (80 percent slopes), and it is even stable on lateral inclines up to 24 degrees (54 percent slopes), making the G-Class a top performer in its segment.

For 2009, the venerable G-Class is fitted with a new three-bar front grille and chrome grille guard, and the G500 is being replaced by the new G550 model equipped with a 5.5L V8 prime mover featuring the latest Mercedes-Benz double-overhead-camshaft variable-valve-timing engine technology.

The G550 joins the high-performance G55 AMG, which also boasts more power this year -- up to an impressive 500 horsepower. Propelled by an AMG supercharged 5.5L V8 engine, the G550 can be identified by new 18-inch, five-twin-spoke alloy wheels, while the G55 AMG gets larger 19-inch AMG five-spoke wheels.

The AMG-built V8 features a belt-driven Lysholm or screw-type supercharger, plus a water-cooled intake-air intercooler for 0-60 mph acceleration in just 5.4 seconds. To balance the increased performance, larger, vented and slotted 13.8-inch front brakes provide increased stopping power for the G55 AMG. Externally the G55 AMG is set apart from the G550 by exclusive chrome trim and "V8 Kompressor" badging as well as its new 19-inch wheels.

Torque is communicated to the ground through a seven-speed automatic adaptive transmission for the G550, while the G55 is equipped with a AMG-enhanced five-speed automatic gearbox.

G-Class models channel their power through a full-time four-wheel drive system, which distributes torque through front, center and rear differentials, all of which can be independently locked for off-road use while the vehicle is in motion through buttons located on the dashboard.

To reduce wheel spin in extremely low-traction situations, the center and rear differential locks can be engaged anytime that the G-Class is off-pavement. In the most slippery off-road situations -- in deep mud, for example -- the front differential can also be engaged for maximum traction. The G-Class also comes with a two-speed transfer case that features electronically controlled high and low ranges. Its fully synchronized low range can be engaged on the fly at speeds up to about 15 mph.

Based on Mercedes-Benz' own stringent guidelines, the G-Class features a tough body-on-frame design with a torsionally rigid chassis. Evidence of its military roots, the brawny G-Class suspension makes use of super-strong rigid axles at the front and rear as well as longitudinal and transverse links with coil springs and gas shocks at all four corners.

Standard ABS anti-lock brakes help to provide directional control during emergency braking, while Mercedes-Benz Brake Assist ensures full-power braking in emergency stops.

Inside the passenger cabin, the G-Class balances its proven off-road credentials and military roots with a liberal dose of sumptuous on-road comfort, a well insulated interior and many technological innovations for safety and convenience from Mercedes cars. The G550 comes with a premium leather interior (a new color, Cognac, is available for 2009), burl walnut trim, a heated wood/leather steering wheel, power windows, 10-way heated and ventilated multi-contour front seats with three memory positions, rear 60/40 split heated seats, cruise control, central door locks, dual-zone automatic climate control and even reading lights for the rear passengers.

Standard equipment for the G550 also includes a rear park assistant that alerts the driver to the proximity of objects located behind the vehicle. The G55 AMG features an exclusive design charcoal Nappa leather interior, AMG gauges and natural maple wood trim.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 112.2; overall length: 184.5; width: 73.1; height: 76.0.

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 5.5L V8 -- 382 hp at 6,000 rpm and 391 lbs-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm; AMG Supercharged 5.5L V8 -- 500 hp at 6,100 rpm and 516 lbs-ft of torque at 2,750 rpm.

Transmission: AMG-enhanced five-speed adaptive automatic or a seven-speed adaptive automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 11 city/15 hwy. (both engines).

Cargo capacity: 79.5 cubic ft.

Payload capacity: 1,411 lbs.

Towing capacity: 7,000 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front/rear side-impact head curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, electronic stability program, side guard door beams, selective power door locks, remote keyless entry, alarm system, rain-sensing windshield wipers, bi-Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps, front/rear fog lamps, TeleAid communications system, COMAND GPS navigation system, Parktronic rear electronic parking aid with rearview camera, HomeLink garage door opener, tire pressure monitors, daytime running lights, and front/rear recovery hooks.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 4-year/50,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: unlimited/unlimited, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV starts from $100,250 for the G550 and $119,450 for the G55AMG. Destination charges add $875.

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