Introduction
The G-Class began as a military off-road vehicle and made its way into urban life in 1979. In this review, we delve into the 2019 Mercedes-Benz G500, a vehicle that needs no introduction, especially in the United Arab Emirates.
2019 Mercedes-Benz G500 Design
Exterior Design
Many may think that Mercedes made minimal changes to the 2019 G500, but the new model shares very little with its predecessor, with reused parts countable on one hand. If you take a closer look, you will notice:
- Door handles
- Spare tire cover
- Sun visors
- Headlight washer jets
- Hood holders
These are the components carried over from the previous model, while everything else is completely new.
Overall, the 2019 G500 maintains its iconic design, still appealing to enthusiasts. It features new LED headlights that greet you with a brief display upon startup, and the round daytime running lights help distinguish it from the previous model. The rear design remains similar but incorporates new LED lights.
Dimensions and Interior Space
Speaking of the exterior, it's worth noting that the new G500 has grown in size; it is now 5 cm longer and 12 cm wider than its predecessor. This increase has enhanced front legroom by 3.8 cm and rear legroom by 15 cm, providing greater comfort for all passengers compared to the previous model.
A single press of the key fob is enough to remind you of the G500's robust build, as the sound and closing of the doors convey a sense of strength consistent across all previous and current models.
Interior Design and Technological Features
The interior cabin has undergone significant changes, drawing closer to the design of its sibling, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. With clear updates in the interior design, the vehicle still retains the essence of Mercedes with two large screens adorning the dashboard, turbine-inspired air vents, and a selection of premium leather, carbon fiber, metals, and Alcantara.
Upon first glance at the entertainment system, you’ll notice its importance and how you can control everything on the screens using buttons on the steering wheel. The black button resembling the one on BlackBerry phones is particularly impressive for switching between multiple menus.
Driving Experience
At the center of the dashboard are three switches that control the differential lock systems. The driving experience has improved compared to the previous model, mainly due to the introduction of a front differential placed in the independent front axle, allowing the G500 to absorb bumps and deliver a much smoother ride than its predecessor.
The second notable change is in the steering feel and precision, which had suffered in the previous model due to a lack of feedback from the tires. In the new model, the interaction is significantly better, eliminating the ambiguity present in the past. This not only makes the G500 easier to drive but also enhances confidence behind the wheel.
That said, there's still a noticeable body roll during turns, but this has been addressed by the automatic side support system in the seats, which keeps you in place by pushing the seat components in the opposite direction of the body roll. But why would someone rush through corners in a luxury SUV like this? The answer lies in its powerful 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine.
This powerful engine generates 422 horsepower and 610 Nm of torque, enabling the G500 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds. If that figure doesn't impress you, considering its size and weight, you can opt for the sportier version, the "Mercedes-Benz AMG G63," which produces 585 horsepower and 850 Nm of torque, boasting a 0 to 100 km/h time of just 4.5 seconds.
Driving the new Mercedes-Benz G500 is an exceptional experience, making you feel unique and distinguished from others. The prestige, quality, and admiration you receive from onlookers justify its starting price of 600,000 AED. Yes, that is a significant amount of money, but it is the price you pay for a vehicle that stands in a class of its own.
