Luxury SUVs can cost big bucks to refuel. Luxury models from brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW aren’t necessarily the most efficient in their segment. Some models are particularly thirsty. One Mercedes SUV takes the cake when it comes to poor fuel economy.

This Mercedes-Benz SUV can really guzzle gas

Most consumers shopping for luxury SUVs aren’t prioritizing fuel economy. Instead, luxury SUV buyers often opt for quality cabins and exciting driving experiences. German automaker Mercedes-Benz makes some of the most refined SUV models on the market. That being said, many of the brand’s SUVs have high refueling costs.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or “G-Wagon,” is iconic. It has become a status symbol and the vehicle of choice of many affluent consumers. The G-Class is known for its upscale design and surprising off-road capability.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has an estimated rating of 13 miles per gallon in the city and 16 miles per gallon on the highway. Its real-world highway gas mileage is closer to 15 miles per gallon. So, the G-Wagon gets no more than 14 miles per gallon combined. Ouch.

The luxury SUV has a 26.4-gallon gas tank which means it can travel for roughly 369 miles on a full tank of gas. According to AAA, the national average gas price is $3.57 as of June 20th, 2023. So, it costs around $94.25 to refuel a 2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class. That $94 could get you less than 370 miles of driving distance. So, the G-Class is exceptionally thirsty, even for a luxury model.

How much does it cost to refuel a Mercedes-Benz G-Class annually?

The average annual driving distance is close to 14,263 miles a year for American drivers. Based on the Mercedes-Benz G-Class’ average driving range, drivers will have to refuel the G-Wagon around 38 times a year.

Assuming the national average gas price remains near $3.57, it could cost drivers $3,572.00 to refuel a 2023 G-Wagon for a year. That’s a lot of gas money, but the G-Class’ target audience isn’t the average American. So, if you are willing to pay over $3,500 to refuel the G-Class a year, what makes the luxury SUV so special?

Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class worth the fuel prices?

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class starts at $139,900. It uses a mighty 4.0-liter V8 engine to make 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque.

The G-Wagon is one of the last models in its segment to still use a V8 engine. Despite its refined exterior, it can handle itself on mild trails. The luxury SUV is powerful, capable, and stylish enough to compete with key rivals in its segment.

Mercedes-Benz offers a variety of packages that add even more creature comforts to the G-Class, including the Seat Comfort package, Exclusive Interior package, and the G Professional package. The G-Wagon isn’t the best in its class, but its uniqueness has made it a staple in the automotive industry. It provides an ownership experience that’s tough to match. The nameplate has survived since the late ’70s and isn’t likely to go anywhere anytime soon.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class competes with models like the Genesis GV80, Porsche Cayenne, and BMW X5. Is it underrated, or is the luxury midsize SUV overpriced for what it offers (especially considering its fuel economy)?