In 2019, Mercedes-Benz completely redesigned its G Class SUV. The Gelandewagen (often called the G Wagon) kept its rugged good looks while benefiting from a modern, wider cabin and independent front suspension. If you are considering a 2021 Mercedes G Class, know that you probably won’t be disappointed by this SUV. But because limited supply created such inflated totals for these 4WDs, you may be disappointed by their eventual resale value.

How much horsepower does a 2021 G-Class have?

The G550 has a 4.0-liter V8 with two turbochargers. As a result, it offers 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. The AMG version, the G 63, makes 577 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.

American drivers might be surprised by the relatively small displacement of the V8 in the 2021 G Class. But the truth is that Mercedes chose a smaller, twin-turbocharged powerplant than the more traditional unit American manufacturers insist upon. The G 63’s 0-60 time of just 4.4 seconds, we reckon this engine is plenty big enough for the G Wagon.

One trick the new G 63 uses to reach these speeds is AWD with torque biased towards the rear wheels (40:60 to be exact). It also has tuned suspension, flared wheel arches, and 22-inch rims. Most AMG products feature four exhaust pipes in the rear bumper. But the G Class is known for its side exit exhaust, so AMG finished its G 63 with two exhaust tips on each side.

Why is the Mercedes G-Wagon so popular?

The G Class combines the exotic appeal of German engineering with the off-road capabilities American drivers love in their SUVs. The 2019-present G Wagon (including the 2021 G Wagon) is much more comfortable to drive, ergonomically designed, and spacious.

The Mercedes-Benz Gelandewagen has long been popular because of its incredible 4×4 capabilities and military-inspired looks. The first generation (1990-2018) commanded increasingly higher totals in the U.S., until some versions were worth over $100k. With powerful V8s and lots of chrome trim, the old G Wagon even became popular amongst celebrities.

But the utilitarian G Wagon still had downsides, such as a narrow interior, poor cabin layout, and steering that was difficult to manage. Mercedes-Benz addressed all of these shortcomings with its 2019-present redesign. For this reason, a 2021 G Wagon is just as capable as its predecessor, but a much more enjoyable vehicle to drive daily.

How much does a fully loaded G-Wagon cost?

Mercedes advertises the new G Class’s MSRP at $131,750. The G 63 has an MSRP of $156,450. The most expensive paints add $5,600, while carbon fiber trim will run you $3,700. By the time you check every box, you can spend well over $200k.

Unfortunately for enthusiasts, many 2021 G Class SUVs ended up costing more than the MSRP. The G Wagon saw a surge in popularity, and the positive reviews of the second generation only flamed this fire. Add in global supply chain issues, including the microchip shortage, and there was much more demand for the 2021 G Class than supply. Dealerships all over the country leveled surcharged on this hot SUV, and some customers paid twice MSRP.

What is worse, the value of these vehicles may come down just as quickly as they once shot up: the New York Post reported that over 1,600 G Class SUVs were listed for sale on AutoTrader at the same time. An anonymous dealership owner revealed that he had watched resale values drop $80,000 in just 12 months. There is no way to know if these values will continue to plummet.

Know that the 2021 G Class is an excellent vehicle by all accounts. But if you’re considering investing more in a used SUV than its original MSRP, you might be wise to wait and see where values settle.

Next, see the changes to the Mercedes G Class for 2023 or watch Doug DeMuro’s review of the redesigned G Class in the video below:

Hear TFL discuss used G Class values in this final video: