eCityofStyle - Auto Style Awards 2001

Read carefully, SUV fans. The 2002 Mercedes-Benz G-Class exemplifies the sport utility vehicle. Originally designed as a war vehicle, the G500 is a serious off-roader unlike the soft-bellied competition parked in the neighbor's heated garage.

If the rigid contours, massive treads, and large flat windows don't give away its true identity, one look at the undercarriage will. There you will find the G500's permanent four-wheel drive and its three differential locks. Add to that four-wheel electronic traction control and ESP stability control, and you've got a truck that will get you through the toughest of terrains.

Nevertheless, the level of refinement found in the G500 is similar to a luxuriously equipped Mercedes sedan. The interior is appointed with fine leather and burl walnut trim. Standard features include a GPS navigation system, power windows, 10-way power adjustable front seats with memory, cruise control, a nine-speaker audio system with six-disc CD changer, and automatic climate control.

No more than 2000 models of this super-exclusive, hand-crafted G500 will be sold in the United States each year. Despite their limited release numbers, spotting one will be unmistakable. There is nothing else on the road - or off it - quite like the G500.

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