Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
With an overall Carivo score of 6.8/10, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class earns a Good rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.9/10, while Safety at 6.5/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate the Mercedes-Benz G-Class's reliability at 8.9/10 — among the strongest in our suv database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. Safety is a notable gap at 6.5/10 in our scoring — below what the best in segment deliver. Check the official NHTSA ratings for the trim you're considering before deciding.
The 8.4/10 performance score reflects a chassis and powertrain that punch above the segment norm — this is a suv you choose partly for the drive itself. Technology scores 8.1/10 — one of the stronger tech packages in the segment. Expect a responsive infotainment system, broad smartphone integration, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features.
Priced from $110,542–$146,677, 10 MPG, seating 5, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class sits in the luxury tier of the suv market. Value lands at 7.9/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, but it needs the right buyer. Its safety scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class ranks #2205 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 10% of the segment. Its 6.8/10 overall score is 0.6 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $110,542 starting price is about 206% above the segment's median of $36,079.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which G-Class Year Should You Buy?
Across the G-Class model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Fuel economy at 10 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Premium price bracket — make sure the score justifies the outlay vs. segment alternatives
Common Questions — 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class reliable?
We rate the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class's reliability 8.9/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class worth buying?
It scores 6.8/10 overall, ranking #2205 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 10% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class cost?
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class starts at $110,542 and ranges up to $146,677 across trims (MSRP when new). At 10 MPG, expect roughly $5,250/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which G-Class years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest G-Class years we've rated are 2015 (6.6/10), 2017 (6.7/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.2/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Mercedes-Benz G-Class
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More Mercedes-Benz Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Mercedes-Benz models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
Representative photo — may show another model year