Why is the Mercedes-Benz G-Class rarely seen on highways?
3 Answers
Mercedes-Benz GL models equipped with the 642 diesel engine are US-spec vehicles, and it is not recommended to drive this model for long distances on highways. Mercedes-Benz G-Class: The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is one of the world's most capable all-terrain off-road vehicles. Its clean and distinct lines outline the rugged appearance expected of an off-roader, while also embodying the unique luxury and classic elegance characteristic of the Mercedes-Benz family. Highways: Highways, abbreviated as expressways, refer to roads specifically designed for high-speed automobile travel. The definition of highways varies across different countries, regions, time periods, and academic research fields.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is rarely seen on highways, primarily because it's a pain to drive. Its boxy design creates massive wind resistance, and at 120 km/h, the noise level is comparable to being on an airplane—conversations basically require shouting. The body-on-frame construction makes you feel like you're being thrown out of the car when taking a turn, and driving continuously for two hours can break your back. The fuel consumption is even more outrageous, with a steady highway cruise starting at 15 liters per 100 km—step on the gas, and you can literally watch the fuel gauge drop. Plus, this hardcore off-roader feels like driving a boat on the highway, swaying unsteadily with none of the stability of a sedan. Those who actually buy the G-Class do so for hardcore off-roading; for daily city commutes, it's more about showing off. For long-distance travel, most would opt for a Range Rover or the sedan version of the G-Class instead.
I feel like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is not inherently designed for high-speed driving. Just look at its boxy, upright shape—it has a large frontal area, so wind noise alone is enough to drive you crazy. I once rode in a friend's G-Class on a short highway trip, and once the speed went over 90 km/h, we had to raise our voices to talk, and the music had to be turned up really loud. The suspension is extremely stiff; even slight bumps on the road make the ride uncomfortably rough, making long-distance drives particularly exhausting. And then there's the fuel consumption—the 3.0T engine burns around 15 liters per 100 km even during highway cruising. The average office worker can't afford to drive like that every day. Most owners buy it for its rugged off-road capabilities and the high head-turning factor in the city. If they really want to cruise on the highway, they'd opt for a Mercedes S-Class or a Porsche—comfortable and quiet.
