2005 Mercedes-Benz G-Class New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz G-Class?
Mercedes has stopped offering free scheduled maintenance for the duration of the standard warranty on all of its models this year. Otherwise, there are no changes to the Mercedes-Benz G500 for 2005.

Advantages of the 2005 Mercedes-Benz G-Class:

• Fantastic off-road capability with three locking differentials
• Potent V8 power
• Comfortable seats
• Excellent visibility

Objections to the 2005 Mercedes-Benz G-Class:

• Based on an archaic military vehicle
• Abysmal fuel economy

Editor's Advice:
We know that there's a special appeal to the history and legacy of these off-road goats from Austria. After all, G-Class is short for Gelaendewagen, which literally means, "touch terrain vehicle." What we can't figure out is how they translate into costly urban commuter vehicles. From its rough ride quality and 25-year-old platform to its military-issue interior, coarse power delivery from its 292-horsepower V8 and limited daily-driver sensibilities, the G-Class is a travesty of the SUV trend gone awry. We know you're going to buy one anyway, no matter what we say, but we don't recommend the 2005 Mercedes-Benz G500 or its garish G55 AMG variant. Want a tough, go-anywhere, luxury vehicle? Get a Land Rover Range Rover or a Lexus LX 470, either of which provides nonpareil off-road ability blended with an ultra-luxurious interior and commendable road-going responsiveness.