Vehicle Class:
Luxury SUV (Full-Size)
Target Audience:
Affluent individuals and families seeking robust off-road capability, luxury appointments, and strong brand prestige.
Competitors:
Land Rover Range Rover, Lexus LX, Toyota Land Cruiser, Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator.
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for its robust construction, permanent four-wheel drive, and locking differentials, making it a class leader in off-road prowess.
Luxury Appointments:
High-quality interior materials, comfortable seating, and advanced features befitting a Mercedes-Benz product.
Durability And Longevity:
Built with exceptional durability and engineering, known for its long service life.
Navigation System:
Operation and functionality of the COMAND APS navigation system, including map display, route planning, and destination entry.
Audio System:
Operation of the integrated audio system, including radio, CD player, and sound settings.
Telephone System:
Bluetooth connectivity and operation of the integrated hands-free telephone system, if equipped.
Climate Control Interface:
Integration and control of certain climate control functions through the COMAND interface.
Settings And Customization:
Personalization options and system settings for the COMAND unit.
Initial Setup:
Guidance on initial setup and configuration of the COMAND system.
Basic Operation:
Step-by-step instructions for common tasks such as changing radio stations, playing CDs, and setting navigation destinations.
Route Planning:
Detailed procedures for planning routes, including options for fastest, shortest, and avoidance preferences.
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Basic troubleshooting tips for common COMAND system issues, error messages, and system resets.
Depth:
Comprehensive user-level operation and functional explanation, focusing on everyday use and feature utilization. Does not cover detailed electronic component repair or wiring diagrams.
Engine Code:
M112 E37 (for G500 models with this engine)
Engine Type:
SOHC V8 (3.7L or 5.0L depending on specific G-Class variant within 2003 model year)
Displacement:
3724 cc or 4966 cc (Varies by specific G-Class variant, e.g., G500)
Horsepower:
Approx. 237 hp (for 3.7L) to 292 hp (for 5.0L - G500)
Torque:
Approx. 250 lb-ft (for 3.7L) to 335 lb-ft (for 5.0L - G500)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (722.6 G-Tronic)
Type:
N/A for this model year, standard was automatic.
Features:
Lockup torque converter, electronically controlled gear shifts.
Transfer Case:
Two-speed transfer case with electronically locking center differential (standard feature).
Length:
Approx. 4520 mm (178.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1760 mm (69.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1931 mm (76.0 in)
Seating Capacity:
5-7 passengers (depending on configuration, optional third row)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2185-2350 kg (4817-5181 lbs)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Likely 4-star rating based on similar models and body style.
Traction Control:
Electronic Traction System (ETS) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program).
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger, front side airbags (optional or standard depending on trim).
Body Construction:
High-strength steel frame and body construction for enhanced crash protection.
System Name:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation System)
Display Type:
Color LCD screen, typically 6.5 inches.
Navigation Media:
CD-ROM based navigation maps.
Audio Features:
AM/FM radio, CD player, optional CD changer, digital sound processor.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Parking Assistance:
Optional parking sensors (Parktronic) could be integrated or standalone.
Bluetooth:
Optional integrated Bluetooth for hands-free calling.
Auxiliary Input:
Often had an auxiliary audio input for external devices.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to Mercedes-Benz Service Schedule, typically around 30,000 miles for inspections and fluid changes.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.3 or MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-30)
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB 236.10 (e.g., ATF Shell ATF 134, Mobil ATF 134)
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based)
Common Issues:
Potential for rust on body panels (especially around wheel arches and doors), HVAC blower motor failures, electronic module issues, and suspension component wear over time. COMAND system may occasionally exhibit slow response or unresponsiveness requiring reboots.
Mercedes Benz Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing rugged, high-quality vehicles, including military vehicles from which the G-Class is derived.
G Class Origins:
Originally developed as a military vehicle in the 1970s, the G-Class was introduced as a civilian luxury off-roader in 1979. The W463 generation, introduced in 1990, refined the G-Class for greater on-road comfort and luxury while retaining its off-road prowess.
Production Location:
Graz, Austria (Magna Steyr factory)
Off Road Accolades:
Consistently recognized for its superior off-road capabilities by automotive journalists and enthusiasts.
Luxury Market Position:
Maintains a strong market position as a highly capable and luxurious off-road vehicle.
Consumer Satisfaction:
Generally high consumer satisfaction for its durability and capability, though ownership costs can be higher.
