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Mercedes-Benz G-class Long (W463, facelift 2008) G 500 V8 (388 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC
Overall Rating
Mercedes-Benz G-class:
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, colloquially known as the G-Wagon or G-Wagen , is a four-wheel drive luxury SUV sold by Mercedes-Benz. Originally developed as a military off-roader, later more luxurious models were added to the line. In certain markets, it was sold under the Puch name as Puch G until 2000.
The G-Class is characterised by its boxy styling and body-on-frame construction. It uses three fully locking differentials, one of the few passenger car vehicles to have such a feature. Despite the introduction of an intended replacement, the unibody SUV Mercedes-Benz GL-Class in 2006, the G-Class is still in production and is one of the longest-produced vehicles in Daimler's history, with a span of 46 years. Only the Unimog surpasses it. In 2018, Mercedes-Benz introduced the second-generation W463 with heavily revised chassis, powertrain, body, and interior. In 2023, Mercedes-Benz announced plans to launch a smaller version of the G-Class, named "little G"—though no definitive date was given for the launch....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Long (W463, facelift 2008) Overview:
Mercedes-Benz G-class (Long (W463, facelift 2008)). With 530 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2455 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.1 s). The top speed reaches 210 km/h. A rugged vehicle built to handle rough terrains and challenging driving conditions. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
G 500 V8 (388 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The 388 Hp V8 delivers strong, smooth acceleration, making highway cruising effortless and providing ample power for any situation, impressive for a vehicle of its stature.
Fuel Economy
Fuel consumption is notably high, typical for a large naturally aspirated V8 in a heavy, aerodynamically challenged SUV, making it a costly choice for daily driving.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic and timeless design with strong road presence
- • Unparalleled off-road capability with three locking differentials
- • Robust and durable build quality
- • Powerful engine options, including the exhilarating AMG G 55
- • Excellent resale value and strong demand
- • Luxurious interior appointments for its class
Cons:
- • Very high fuel consumption, especially for petrol models
- • Firm and somewhat truck-like ride quality on paved roads
- • High purchase price and expensive maintenance/parts
- • Dated infotainment and safety technology compared to modern SUVs
- • Limited interior space for its exterior dimensions
- • Aerodynamic limitations contribute to wind noise at speed
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Cabriolet (W463, facelift 2008): 2010 - 2012).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | G-class |
| Generation: | Long (W463, facelift 2008) |
| Modification (Engine): | G 500 V8 (388 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC |
| Start of production: | 2011 |
| End of production: | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 388 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 71 Hp/l [405mm more] |
| Torque: | 530 Nm @ 2800-4800 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 273.963 More details about the engine M 273.963 |
| Engine displacement: | 5461 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 9 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 98 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 90.5 mm mm |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 20 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 11.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC): | 14.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC): | 20 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC): | 11.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 14.9 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 5 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 210 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.3 kg/Hp, 158 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.6 kg/Nm, 215.9 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 5.8 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2455 |
| Max. weight: | 3200 |
| Max. roof load: | 200 kg |
| Max load: | 745 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 2250 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 480 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 3500 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 96 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 750 kg |
| Permitted towbar download: | 140 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Wading depth: | 500 mm |
| Length: | 4662 mm mm [405mm more] |
| Width: | 1760 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1931 mm mm [10mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2850 mm mm [450mm more] |
| Width including mirrors: | 2007 mm |
| Front track: | 1475 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1475 mm |
| Front overhang: | 783 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 820 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 205 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 13.3 m [above average] |
| Approach angle: | 36° |
| Departure angle: | 27° |
| Climb angle: | 38.7° |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4x4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Gearbox type | G-TRONIC |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18 |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Coil spring |
Does the Mercedes-Benz G-class live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!