The launch of the second generation Gelandewagen (W463) in 2018 took the iconic nameplate and refreshed every nut and bolt for the new platform. When we say every bolt, we’re not exaggerating, the only pieces carried over from the first gen W463 are the door handles, the spare-tire cover, the sun visors, the headlight-washer nozzles, and a bracket under the hood. While the new model generated a number of polarizing reviews amongst the enthusiast community, the second generation was improved in almost every conceivable notion from a performance and capability standpoint. Sure the lines are a bit softer but the ride quality has been improved and it’s still a top performer off road with it’s iconic ladder frame and three locking differentials. This 2019 G550 was submitted to us by one of our readers, Mark Florea, out of Sacramento, CA. It’s a 1-owner example showing 18k miles on the clock and a laundry list of options on the datacard. Asking price is a cool $150k and the photos alone have us drooling at the idea of owning this just long enough to become well-acquainted with some Moab trails.
Finished in Polar White (149) over Designo Black nappa leather, this G certainly won’t offend with bright colors or an off-the-wall palette. It will, however, surprise passengers with it’s Designo Interior Package (418) which includes Designo floor mats, diamond stitching, Comfort Seat Package, nappa leather dashboard, a frameless mirror, and Designo DINAMICA Headliner. The cabin is accented by Designo black flamed open-pore ash wood trim and even more nappa hide. Compared to the first generation of the W463, the second gen isn’t just softer on the outside. The door cards, dashboard, and seats have all been redesigned to be much more comfortable for a long commute or a short jaunt around town as the current demographic is highly unlikely to test the G’s off road manners and true strengths.
For those interested in finding the limits of the new platform, there are parts, tunes, and accessories available across the board to increase performance and off-road prowess. In stock form the M177 V8 delivers 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Towing capacity is rated at a braked 7,000 lbs, the same as the first generation of the W463 but with greater approach, departure, and break angles in comparison. The stock 19-inch wheels leave the perfect option for all terrain tires to really give those locking differentials a workout on the weekends.
At $150k we recognize there are more economical ways to go off-roading in a Magna-Steyr built Merc but if you’re hunting for the vehicle that really can do it all, look no further. Neither driver or passengers are expected to compromise comfort, performance, or style in the second generation W463 and given the G-wagons propensity for value retention, this is a Modern Mercedes your financial planner may even be able to endorse. Just make sure you’re willing to pay the price to play the game, they’re difficult to get a hold of new from dealers and pre-owned options can set you back just as much. Interested parties may contact the seller directly via email at mflorea786@yahoo.com.
Comments