A Mercedes-Benz G-Class isn't a logical buy, but that's just why it has endured so long. Not everyone wants an economical sedan, after all. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has moved far from its roots as a utilitarian vehicle designed with soldiers in mind.
Pros Authentic design and heritage Stellar off road Luxuriously updated inside Phenomenal powertrains
Cons You could buy a fleet of Jeep Wranglers for this money Dated in every possible way Sits so high, it comes with its own steps Requires off-road skill, for better or worse
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class ranks 8 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is more of a status symbol than an everyday SUV. It costs more than every competitor, and it isn't particularly practical to drive anywhere but off road. However, if you want something that'll grab attention and impress, it doesn’t get more distinctive than the G-Class, also known as the G550.
Pros Excellent off-roader Muscular engines
Cons Unsettling ride for luxury class Cumbersome and difficult to handle on pavement Few driver assistance technologies
For 2017 the G-Class gains a new variant: the G550 4x4², which gains more ground clearance, larger tires and a revised suspension. New cosmetic packages (Designo Manufaktur Luxury and Mojave packages, Night package) have been introduced.
Pros Iconic design is instantly recognizable Outstanding forward visibility Unusually quiet when driving on-road Lots of cosmetic customization potential
Cons Awful steering, handling, drivability and fuel economy Difficult to get into and out of Poor interior packaging leaves little useful space Compromised off-road ability
Need a vehicle that can do it all? The 2017 Lexus LX 570 can seat up to eight and has the ability to tow a trailer. You can tackle a backcountry trail with it, too. But read more to learn how some rival SUVs can achieve similar feats without as much compromise.The 2017 Lexus LX 570 carries over unchanged.
Pros A smooth ride over rough roads Advanced off-road capabilities Plenty of standard features.
Cons Impractical third-row seat lacks passenger space and doesn't fold flat V8 engine's poor fuel economy and sluggish acceleration Infotainment interface can be distracting to use.
Amazingly refined, the Lexus LX 570 hides its utilitarian roots exceptionally well. Think of the 2017 Lexus LX 570 as a UN Peacekeeper in a tuxedo. Underneath its glitzy, eye-catching exterior and behind its soft leather and glossy wood sits a Toyota Land Cruiser, one of the most capable and over-engineered vehicles to ever hit the road.
Pros Brawny powertrain Softer, warmer cabin materials Real towing capability As spacious inside as the exterior suggests
Cons Clunky third-row seating can't be removed Dismal fuel economy Clumsy handling Pitching-and-heaving ride
The 2017 Lexus LX ranks 6 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. The 2017 Lexus LX is as rugged as it is luxurious, offering exceptional capability when the pavement ends and an opulent cabin. It also has an excellent predicted reliability rating. However, many of its competitors have more cargo space and better fuel economy estimates.
Pros Exceptional off-road ability Top-notch interior Great predicted reliability rating
Cons Poor fuel economy estimates Less cargo room than rivals
