Built to thrill
The Mercedes G-Wagen is up there with some of motoring’s all-time greats.
Its distinctive angular silhouette and ability to look and feel at home both in the rugged and urban jungle results in a car which just about everyone recognises, car fanatic or not.
While the ultimate expression of the G-wagen is the rambunctious G63 AMG, I believe there is a case to be made as why the latest entry level G450d is the one to have. Firstly, it’s the most cost-effective. At $213,900, it undercuts the AMG by a hefty $130,000. Now one could argue what is an extra $130k for someone willing to spend more than $200k on a luxury SUV, but that is a serious money saver.
Sure, the G450d’s 3.0L six-cylinder diesel engine aided by a 48v mild hybrid battery pack can’t hold a candle to the AMG in terms of off the line grunt, but it’s still brisk, especially with the extra torque from the battery, and provides more than ample poke for daily use and long trips. It also settles down to a laid-back burble at cruising speed. Stay in ninth gear and munch up those miles.
While the only drawback is a smidgen of tyre roar on coarse tarmac, overall, I would be happy to motor down to Queenstown in the G450d. Naturally, this trip would also be in uber refined surroundings. The cabin exudes quality with superb fit and finish, not to mention a plethora of high-grade materials all around. Hop in and in typical G-Wagen fashion, extra brute force is required when closing the doors. The heated and ventilated seats are incredibly plush, and you sit high up with great forward visibility.
However, rear vision is not as generous thanks to the rear mounted spare wheel, and the turning circle isn’t the greatest. Clawing back points with a long list of standard features, the G450d gets the latest MBUX interface, 3D Burmester Sound System, ambient lighting, wireless charging and a whole host of intelligent safety tech too numerous to cover completely here. With three locking differentials, a bespoke off-road cockpit displaying wheel/climbing angle, wade depth, altitude, tyre pressure and 360-degree cameras guiding the way, the G450d gives you even further confidence as you venture into that rugged terrain. It is immensely capable, furthering the conviction the G450d, like any G-Wagen, is equally at home on intrepid journeys as well as in town.
While I wouldn’t blame you for wanting the rip-snorting G63 AMG V8, I reckon this entry point G450d is infinitely far more utilitarian and more in keeping with the ethos of the original G-Wagen design. A tough as nails yet premium feeling way of devouring any terrain and looking good while doing it and with a price tag which makes it the best value G-Wagen of the current range. You really cant go wrong here.
FACT FILE
2026 Mercedes-Benz G450d
Engine: 3.0L six-cylinder diesel with Mild Hybrid system
Transmission: 9-speed automatic
Drivetrain: AWD
Power: 270kW/20kW Battery
Torque: 750Nm 0 to 100kph: 5.8 seconds
Kerb Weight: 2535kg
Wheels: 18-inch alloy
