2008 Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G500)

There's nothing quite like the Mercedes-Benz G500 sports-utility vehicle. How many vehicles can say they were designed at the request of the Shah of Iran, have served as the official transportation device for the Pope, are used as military vehicles by nearly every major country in the world and are sold brand new fully swathed in luxury from car dealerships in North America?

Only one that we can think of: the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The G500 enters its 29th year of production, though only since 2002 has the G-Class been officially imported by Mercedes-Benz. Previously, North American importation was through Santa Fe, New Mexico-based grey market importer Europa International. Since 2002, the G500 has been available new from Mercedes-Benz dealers, despite brief hiatuses.

Once expected to be replaced officially in the consumer market by the GL-Class sports utility vehicles, fans of the G500 protested and Mercedes-Benz relented. Thus, despite a history dating back more than a generation, the G500 is still sold new.

One of the most rugged vehicles ever produced, the G500 features full body-on-frame construction, solid axles front and rear, three differential locks and copious plating underneath to fend off rocks. Underhood is a 5.0 liter V8 engine that puts out 292 horsepower at 5,500 RPM and 336 lb-ft. of torque at 4,000 RPM. It features a seven-speed automatic transmission with Touch Shift manual-style shifting.

Inside, the G500 continues to show its age thanks to an upright windshield, limited shoulder room and blocky design. Yet it's exceedingly well built and has been kept contemporary in the features department. Standard equipment includes DVD-based COMAND navigation, a harman/kardon audio system, a multicontour driver's seat with pneumatic bolsters and extensive premium leather trim.

The G500 starts at $89,025 for 2008. Most G500s are special order items only and rumor has it that 2008 will be the last year the old soldier is imported to North America.