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Independent review & score by Carivo
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
|---|---|
| Body Style | SUV |
| Base Price | $132,359–$176,499 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a suv that earns a Carivo score of 7.0/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.5/10, while Value at 6.6/10 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. Reliability stands out at 8.5/10. The G-Class nameplate has earned that score through its track record and a comparatively clean recall sheet. Safety is a notable gap at 6.9/10 in our scoring — below what the best in segment deliver. Check the official NHTSA ratings for the trim you're considering before deciding.
Performance at 6.9/10 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. Technology scores 6.9/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $132,359–$176,499, 13 MPG, seating 5, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class sits in the luxury tier of the suv market. The value score of 6.6/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Verdict: The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class sits in the middle of the field. Until its safety and performance and technology and value 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 →
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class ranks #2010 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 18% of the segment. Its 7.0/10 overall score is 0.4 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $132,359 starting price is about 267% above the segment's median of $36,079.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full SUV ranking →
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class scores 6.8/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.0 — 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.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 7.1/10 | $149,813 | Read review → |
| 2024 | 7.2/10 | $145,450 | Read review → |
| 2023 | 7.1/10 | $141,086 | Read review → |
| 2022 | 7.0/10 | $136,723 | Read review → |
| 2021 (this review) | 7.0/10 | $132,359 | |
| 2020 | 6.9/10 | $127,996 | Read review → |
| 2019 | 6.9/10 | $123,632 | Read review → |
| 2018 | 6.8/10 | $119,269 | Read review → |
| 2017 | 6.7/10 | $114,905 | Read review → |
| 2016 | 6.8/10 | $110,542 | Read review → |
| 2015 | 6.6/10 | $106,178 | Read review → |
Explore the full lineup of Mercedes-Benz models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.