Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a suv that earns a Carivo score of 6.8/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Technology at 8.9/10, while Reliability at 6.7/10 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. At 6.7/10 for reliability, this suv trails its segment. That doesn't rule it out, but go in with eyes open on running costs. Safety lands at 8.0/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.8/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. On technology it rates 8.9/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $119,269–$157,311, 10 MPG, seating 5, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class sits in the luxury tier of the suv market. At 7.0/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 8 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class sits in the middle of the field. Until its performance and reliability scores improve, stronger options exist at this price. Worth a look if it fits a specific need; otherwise use our compare tool against the segment leaders first.
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 2018 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 $119,269 starting price is about 231% 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?
Smart-money pick: the 2015 Mercedes-Benz G-Class scores 6.6/10 — within striking distance of the 2018's 6.8 — and starts roughly $13,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Best-in-class infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity features
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
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 — 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class reliable?
We rate the 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class's reliability 6.7/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2018 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 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class cost?
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class starts at $119,269 and ranges up to $157,311 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