Mercedes G-Class

The Mercedes G-Class in India is a full-sized luxury SUV known for its unique boxy design, legendary off-road capability, and powerful engine choices. The AMG G 63 variant features a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo petrol engine producing 585 hp and 850 Nm torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system. Its advanced off-road technologies include three differential locks, hill descent control, and adaptive suspension, ensuring confident driving over tough terrain. The cabin offers premium Nappa leather, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital instrument cluster, and luxury touches like ambient lighting and Burmester sound system. With seating for five and about 480–667 liters of boot space, it balances everyday usability with exclusivity. While large and heavy, it manages surprisingly agile handling for its size and remains a timeless statement of rugged luxury in India.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class in India is offered as a luxury off-road icon with the G 450d diesel and G 63 AMG petrol variants, both built on a rugged ladder-frame chassis with three differential locks and permanent all-wheel drive. The G 450d uses a 2.989-litre inline-six diesel with 48V mild-hybrid tech, delivering strong torque for highway cruising and light off-roading, while the G 63 packs a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo petrol engine with 585 hp and 850 Nm, enabling 0-100 km/h in under 4.5 seconds. Both variants use a 9-speed automatic transmission and feature a boxy, military-inspired design with a side-hinged tailgate and upright stance. Inside, it offers a premium cabin with leather upholstery, dual 12.3-inch screens, ambient lighting, and advanced driver aids. It seats five comfortably with decent boot space, though rear legroom is not class-leading. The G-Class is not about practicality or efficiency; it is about unmatched off-road ability, commanding presence and luxury, making it a top choice for those who want the ultimate status SUV in India.

The Mercedes G-Class remains an iconic symbol of luxury and off-road capability, blending aggressive styling with robust engineering. The 2025 model in India impresses with its powerful 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine delivering around 585 hp (in the AMG G 63 variant) and 850 Nm of torque, making it one of the more powerful luxury SUVs on Indian roads. Its revamped suspension system offers surprisingly improved agility and comfort without sacrificing the G-Class's rugged off-road DNA. The interior continues to combine high-end materials with modern tech like a touchscreen interface, premium Nappa leather seats, and advanced off-road assist features, ensuring a plush yet functional driving experience. However, it remains a large, heavy vehicle, and while it commands attention, the rear legroom and luggage space are slightly less generous than expected for the price bracket. Overall, this SUV is more than a status symbol; it’s truly capable in varied terrains while maintaining top-notch luxury, making it a compelling choice for buyers looking for exclusivity and performance in India.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class in India is not just an SUV, it is a statement of power, prestige and off-road capability wrapped in a boxy, timeless design. Driving it feels like commanding a fortress on wheels, with the G 63’s 4.0-litre V8 biturbo delivering brutal acceleration and a thunderous exhaust note that turns heads everywhere. The ride is firm but controlled, especially with AMG Ride Control, and the three differential locks make it one of the most capable off-roaders in the country. Inside, the cabin blends luxury and technology with high-quality materials, a large touchscreen, ambient lighting and a commanding driving position. It is not the most practical or efficient SUV, but that is not what it is built for. For those who value image, presence and unmatched off-road prowess over running costs and fuel economy, the G-Class is hard to beat. It is expensive to buy and run, but for the right buyer, it is worth every rupee as a true icon that stands apart from every other luxury SUV on Indian roads.

Mercedes-Benz has replaced the V8 engine in the base G 550 model with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This change aims to improve fuel efficiency and performance, with the new engine producing 443 horsepower. I believe this move will make the G-Class more appealing to those looking for better fuel economy without sacrificing power.

The 2025 Mercedes-AMG G 63 has been enhanced with an optional new suspension system called AMG Active Ride Control, which includes hydraulic roll stabilization and adaptive dampers. This system significantly improves the SUVs stability and comfort during both on-road and off-road driving. I think this suspension upgrade will make the G 63 even more formidable in its class.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has introduced a significant update with the inclusion of an all-electric powertrain option, known as the G 580 with EQ Technology. This electric version boasts a 116-kWh battery and a quad-motor powertrain, matching and in some cases surpassing the capabilities of its gas-powered siblings. The electric G-Class also features a unique G-Turn maneuver, similar to a tank turn. I think this electric variant will be a game-changer for the G-Class, offering both performance and sustainability.

Mercedes-Benz has updated the G-Classs infotainment system with the latest MBUX interface, offering more connectivity options and features such as an optional rear-seat entertainment system with two 11.6-inch displays. Additionally, a new 360-degree camera system has been introduced to help with off-road navigation and tight urban spaces.

The design of the 2025 G-Class has seen subtle revisions, including new bumpers, aero-optimized wheel designs, and a new spoiler above the windscreen to improve aerodynamics and reduce wind noise. These changes maintain the iconic look of the G-Class while enhancing its practicality.

The Mercedes G-Class AMG G 63 is priced around Rs. 2.78 crore ex-showroom in India, with on-road prices in metropolitan hubs exceeding Rs. 3 crore depending on taxes, insurance, and state-specific fees. This places it firmly in the ultra-luxury segment, competing with other premium SUVs but commanding a premium due to its legendary status and bespoke build quality. Considering the bespoke engineering and extensive customization options, the price reflects exclusivity and advanced technology more than just utility. The cost might feel steep, but for buyers prioritizing unique presence, high power, and off-road prowess, it justifies the investment. The limited availability and niche appeal also maintain its allure as a collector’s item or status SUV in India’s luxury market.

In India, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is positioned as a premium luxury off-roader with a starting ex-showroom price around ₹2.25 crore for the G 450d diesel variant, while the G 63 AMG petrol variant starts closer to ₹2.85 crore ex-showroom in major cities. On-road prices, including RTO registration, insurance and other charges, can go up to ₹2.5 crore for the G 450d and exceed ₹3.2 crore for the G 63 AMG, depending on the city and optional extras. These figures make it one of the most expensive SUVs available in the country, clearly targeting ultra-high-net-worth individuals. The price reflects not just the performance and luxury but also the exclusivity and brand image that the G-Class carries. For most buyers, this is not a daily driver but a halo vehicle, often used for special occasions or as a status symbol. The high on-road cost also means higher insurance premiums, service bills and long-term ownership expenses, so it is important to factor in the total cost of ownership before committing. Still, for those who can afford it, the G-Class offers unmatched presence and off-road capability that justifies its price for the right buyer.

The G-Class’s fuel efficiency is modest, with mileage figures around 6–7 kmpl in city conditions and slightly better on highways. Given its large V8 engine and off-road design, the running costs will be on the higher side, including maintenance and fuel consumption. For buyers sensitive to mileage, this is an important consideration as the vehicle prioritizes power and luxury over economy.

Official figures suggest the G-Class diesel variant delivers around 13-14 kmpl under ideal conditions, while the petrol G 63 is significantly lower, likely in the range of 6-8 kmpl in real-world Indian driving. In city traffic, expect even lower figures due to the heavy weight and powerful engine. Running costs are high, with frequent refuelling and expensive service intervals. For someone concerned about mileage and daily running costs, the G-Class is not a practical choice; it is built for performance and image, not fuel efficiency. Consider it only if fuel expenses are not a major constraint.