Mercedes G-Class You Really Want Can Be Yours For Under $50,000

Mercedes-Benz G-Class has grown to become a major status symbol in recent years, as opposed to the rugged off-roader it was originally intended to be. Once a utilitarian vehicle born out of military need, the G-Class has morphed into a luxury mainstay, especially when talking about the latest AMG variants. This shift in perception – and the type of buyers it attracts – has sent prices skyrocketing, particularly for newer or heavily optioned versions. Add in limited availability, and it’s no surprise that even used examples often command six-figure sums.
 

However, for buyers who appreciate the G-Class’s original ethos and aren’t the types to chase trends, the previous generation now represents a shrewd opportunity. Look beyond the AMG badge and the post-2019 redesign, and you’ll find that the previous-generation G-Class – specifically from 2013’s update onward – offers nearly all the appeal without the inflated price tag. These models retain the classic boxy silhouette, stout build quality, and low-range-capable four-wheel-drive system that make the G-Class an icon, yet they often trade hands for under $50,000.
 
Depreciation Exits The Chat
Although the G-Class has been offered in civilian form dating back to 1979, Mercedes only started offering it in the US in 2002. It was offered exclusively in G500 trim initially, with a 5.0-liter V8 rated at 292 hp under the hood. Used prices hover around $30,000 for the earliest models on classifieds websites like AutoTrader, which can be considered the current floor in pricing for G-Classes. What’s perhaps most impressive is that later examples, boasting improved performance and technology, can be had for not much more money.
 
The original G-Class was updated multiple times before 2019’s redesign, including five updates since sales started in the US in 2002. An updated model launched in 2013, priced originally from $113,000 (plus a $905 destination charge) brought in a much more modern dash design that still looks fresh today, as well as a lot of useful in-car features, like blind spot warning and park assist. The 2013 update also came with a choice of G550 and AMG G63 trims, with the former featuring a 5.5-liter V8 good for 388 hp paired to a new 7-speed automatic transmission (instead of the previous 5-speed). The AMG came with a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 making 544 hp.
 
Looking at used prices, both the G550 and G63 from this vintage can be found for under $50,000, meaning there’s very little in the way of additional depreciation beyond this level. It also appears that the market doesn’t attach a premium to the AMG – perhaps because of the increased complexity, like the twin-turbocharged engine, as well as the potential for previous owners having abused their vehicles more. It is a performance ride, after all. Thus, the features and simplicity of its naturally aspirated engine make the G550 from 2013 onward the sweet spot for enthusiasts, but only up to the 2015 model year, as from 2016 on, the G550 also adopted a twin-turbocharged V8 and the complications that brings.
 

Features And Specs
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz G550 combined the G-Wagen’s classic ruggedness with a welcome dose of modern technology. The update that year brought only a modest increase in power, adding just 6 hp to the existing 5.5-liter V8, but the changes inside the cabin were much more substantial. This refresh effectively brought the G-Class into the modern era, particularly in terms of in-car tech and driver assistance features.
 
The most noticeable change was the redesigned dashboard, which featured a standard 7.0-inch touch-sensitive infotainment screen. This was paired with the then-new Comand interface with a controller knob, making navigation and media easier to use. Safety and convenience were significantly enhanced with the addition of park assist, hill hold, a backup camera, LED daytime running lights, blind spot warning, voice activation (albeit basic), and adaptive cruise control – many features that have since become indispensable for modern drivers.
 
Despite these modern touches, the G550 maintained its core identity as a serious off-roader, retaining the traditional body-on-frame construction and solid live axles front and rear. The electronic stability control system was updated and improved, though, including an assist feature specifically designed to help with trailering.
 
Driving Impressions
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz G550 delivers a surprisingly refined driving experience for a vehicle with military roots, making the experience unique. Despite a hefty curb weight and rugged underpinnings, the G550 feels composed on the road and brisk when needed, though body roll is noticeable in corners and wind noise can get elevated at highway speeds.
 
Off the road, it benefits from full-time four-wheel drive and three locking differentials (front, center, and rear), which is rare, even among dedicated off-roaders. This setup gives it impressive traction and crawl capability over rocky trails, mud, or deep snow. However, combined with a big V8 engine, it also ensures frequent visits to the gas station. The EPA-rated gas mileage is a low 12 mpg city and 15 mpg highway.
 
Compared to the redesigned G-Class that arrived in 2019, the earlier G550 isn’t far behind in real-world performance. The newer model improves on-road handling and cabin comfort, but the core experience – a powerful engine, tank-like feel, and iconic style – remains intact.
 

Reliability Concerns? What To Look For
High-end Mercedes models are notorious for being expensive to maintain – especially when things fail – which is why they tend to be so affordable on the used market. However, the G550 from 2013-2015 appears to be a relatively dependable model, especially when looked after well.
 
CarComplaints only has information dating back to the 2017 model, and not much at that – likely due to the G-Class being such a niche product. Some of the concerns include a loud “hooting” noise from the twin-turbocharged V8 in the G550. The naturally aspirated V8 in earlier G550s, however, is known to be more reliable than the twin-turbo unit that replaced it. Instead, problems are more likely to arise in areas like the steering.
 
According to NHTSA data, a major recall affected 2013-2015 models due to a potentially loose steering coupling, which could lead to steering loss over time if left unaddressed. Other recalls include updates to emergency call (eCall) systems and lighting modules, though these are less critical. Anyone considering a G-Class of this vintage should check if the recalls were completed, as well as inspect for a clunky or uneven ride. As with any older Mercedes, the electronics should be tested, such as the infotainment and driver-assist features.
 
The Swiss Army Knife Of Cars
Pre-owned Mercedes models that are no longer under warranty – particularly the high-end, technology-laden stuff – often carry surprisingly low price tags. However, that affordability comes with a caveat. Reliability is often a weak spot, and maintenance and repairs can be complex and costly, provided you can even find the necessary parts. However, the previous-generation G-Class, when non-turbocharged, looks to hold up well in terms of reliability, making it a not-so-expensive way to experience a motoring icon that combines luxury, off-road capability, and a whole lot of street cred.