2020 Mercededs-Benz G-Class 350 d Review

In recent years, the luxury hardcore SUV market has been heating up, with Malaysian consumers showing a significant increase in demand for models that combine classic design with modern technology. As the benchmark model in this segment, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class 2020 G 350 d, known for the practicality of its diesel power and brand premium, has consistently been the focus of attention for high-end users. The core purpose of this test drive is to evaluate whether this "boxy" vehicle, while retaining its classic elements, can meet contemporary users' comprehensive demands for comfort, technological features, and fuel efficiency.

The exterior of the 2020 G 350 d continues the iconic boxy design, with strong and straight lines and no unnecessary curves. At the front, the classic round headlights combined with the three-slot grille and the Mercedes-Benz emblem offer high recognizability. A silver skid plate is added below the front bumper, which enhances its rugged appeal and improves off-road capability. On the side of the car, the straight waistline runs from front to rear, paired with 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels that maintain the G-Class’s traditional imposing style. The doors feature exposed hinges, a retro design element that is both a design highlight and convenient for maintenance. At the rear, the square taillights echo the vehicle's silhouette, while the rear-mounted spare tire further emphasizes the SUV's off-road nature. The high-mounted brake light and reflective strips on the rear bumper provide clear warning effects at night.

Stepping inside, the interior style of the 2020 G 350 d leans toward a combination of luxury and technology. The dashboard is wrapped in large swathes of soft-touch materials, paired with wood-grain panels and metallic trims, providing a sophisticated and high-quality tactile feel. The dual 12.3-inch screens are the interior's main highlight. The left screen serves as a fully digital instrument cluster that displays navigation, fuel consumption, and other information, while the right screen supports touch operation and is equipped with the MBUX intelligent system, allowing controls over air conditioning and navigation via voice commands with smooth responsiveness. The seats are wrapped in genuine leather, with front-row seats featuring electric adjustment and heating options, offering excellent support during sitting. The driver’s seat features a multi-function steering wheel with buttons for controlling media and driver assistance systems, providing a comfortable grip.

In terms of space, the dimensions of the 2020 G 350 d are 4817×1931×1969mm, with a wheelbase of 2890mm. The front-row seating offers ample space; a passenger standing 180cm tall has about a fist's worth of headroom after adjusting the seat. Rear-row space is moderate, with around two fists of legroom and one fist of headroom, sufficient to meet the everyday needs of families. In terms of storage capacity, the front central armrest offers a sizable compartment that can hold phones, wallets, and other items. The door pockets can accommodate two bottles of mineral water. The trunk provides a standard volume of 667L, expandable to 1590L by folding the rear seats down, making it adequate for storing luggage for long trips. Additionally, the rear rows are equipped with independent air-conditioning vents and USB charging ports to enhance passenger comfort.

In terms of power, the 2020 G 350 d is equipped with a 2.9T V6 diesel engine, delivering a maximum output of 290PS and peak torque of 600N·m, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT). During practical driving, the vehicle offers a responsive start, with a light press on the accelerator providing noticeable acceleration force. Mid- and high-speed acceleration is steady, and within the torque range of 1200-3200rpm, overtaking only requires stepping harder on the accelerator, with the transmission swiftly downshifting, ensuring smooth and continuous power output. The driving modes include Economy, Comfort, and Sport. In Economy mode, the throttle response is slightly muted, making it suitable for daily commuting; in Sport mode, gear shifts are delayed for a more aggressive power output, ideal for highway driving.

In terms of handling and chassis, the 2020 G 350 d uses a body-on-frame construction, paired with a front double-wishbone independent suspension and a rear solid axle non-independent suspension. During daily driving, the chassis effectively filters out small bumps, and while crossing speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension absorbs vibrations effectively, keeping the vehicle stable. When entering a curve, the steering wheel offers precise control with minimal play, and body roll is kept within a reasonable range without any noticeable floating sensation. As a robust SUV, the vehicle is equipped with a full-time four-wheel-drive system and three differential locks. When faced with muddy or gravel roads, locking the differential can effectively enhance off-road capability, meeting the needs of light off-road driving.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the official combined fuel consumption is 8.8L/100km. During this test drive of approximately 200km, including city traffic and highways, the actual fuel consumption was about 9.2L/100km, which is close to the official figure. Its fuel economy is excellent among SUVs in the same category. Regarding ride comfort, the vehicle controls wind noise and road noise well, with cabin noise remaining within an acceptable range at high speeds. The seats provide good support, making long drives less tiring. The gearbox shifts smoothly with virtually no jerking, enhancing everyday driving comfort.

In summary, the core highlights of the 2020 Mercededs-Benz G 350 d lie in its classic rugged design, luxurious interior features, and stable performance. Compared to the Land Rover Defender 90 in the same class, the G 350 d offers more advantages in brand value and interior luxury. Compared to the Jeep Wrangler, its on-road comfort and technological features are superior. Overall, the vehicle retains the traditional rugged attributes of the G-Class while balancing everyday driving comfort and advanced technology, making it suitable for consumers who value brand prestige and seek a blend of luxury and ruggedness, particularly families or high-end business users who need both city commuting and light off-road capabilities.

Overall, the 2020 Mercededs-Benz G 350 d is a luxurious rugged SUV that combines classic design with modern technology, meeting the needs of most high-end users.