First Drive: The Mercedes G500 remains a giant of the roads

But while it may be a design icon, does the G-Class still stack up as a proper SUV in 2025? We’ve been testing it out in updated form to see what this big off-roader offers.

Alongside the diesel-powered G450d, this G500 actually acts as the entry point to the G-Class range, though its £146,095 starting price is hardly budget-focused. Our test car, after a variety of options had been added, came in at £147,585 – so it still represents a significant outlay.

Despite weighing over 2.6 tonnes, the G500 will still manage 0-60mph in 5.1 seconds and will head onwards to a top speed of 130mph. Though it is more efficient than an older V8-powered version, the G500’s economy still isn’t the best at 25mpg and this will head south quickly if you’re a little more enthusiastic with the throttle.

What about that engine? Well, it brings a level of accessible performance which perfectly suits the character of the G-Class. There’s more than enough power to get up to speed in good time and, quite often, the G500 feels far quicker than it really needs to be. At greater speeds, there’s a small amount of wind noise generated by the upright windscreen and sturdy pillars, but it’s not too disruptive.

AMG Line vehicles like our test car do get a range of sportier touches, including a range of chromed components such as the front grille, bumper inserts and rear loading sill. The sportiest AMG models get an altogether more aggressive look, but we’re quite fond of the subdued design of this G500 version.

There’s a good level of space in the rear, too, with the boxy dimensions of this SUV ensuring that all those inside get plenty of headroom. Unlike the Defender, the G-Class isn’t available with seven seats – you’d need to opt for the larger Mercedes GLS if that’s a requirement. However, the 640-litre boot is more than spacious enough and can be expanded to 2,010 litres by folding down the rear seats. The boot is square and nicely proportioned, though the sill is relatively high so loading heavier items inside can be a challenge.

You also get the full Mercedes MBUX infotainment system which is swift, responsive and easy to navigate. Connecting your smartphone is a breeze, but this main display is also backed up with a good number of physical controls which make changing and tweaking settings on the move much easier than having to interact with the screen alone.

The G-Class brings a great combination of old- and new-school features. It has all of the character that you’d associate with the original, but its refined on-road manners and handily intuitive technology make this a far easier car to live with on a day-to-day basis than you might expect.

Some may be disheartened by the non-V8 engine under the bonnet of this G500 but, given its ready performance and more understated character, it could well be the pick of the G-Class bunch.