2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class reviews
and buying guide.
2003
Mercedes-Benz G-Class resources:
2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The top-level SUV from Mercedes for 2003, is the full-size
G500. This truck has styling and design priorities reminiscent
of the Land Rover line. In the G500 maximum size, strength
and versatility combines with a degree of luxury that
challenges most full-size sedans.
This is a pull out all the stops model with 5-liters
of engine displacement and a 24-valve V8 to power you
through any obstacle. Originally designed in the 70s
for the German army, the G-Class was designed as an
all-terrain cross-country vehicle. However, it has extensive
luxury and even more control and performance innovation.
Under the Hood
The G500 has a 292 hp 5.5-liter V8 with 336lb-ft of
torque. This means that in many ways it behaves more
like a sport sedan or a coupe when you put your foot
down at a stop light. ME 2.8 integrated sequential multipoint
fuel injection and phased twin-spark ignition combines
with the standard driver-adaptive electronic 5-speed
automatic with Touch Shift.
This system lets the driver manually downshift andupshift
by nudging the shift lever to the left or right from
the Drive position. An all-wheel drive system enables
on-the-fly low-range engagement up to 15 mph and it
has locking front, center, and rear differentials.
Other control technologies include the 4-wheel ETS,
the Electronic Traction System, and ESP, or the Electronic
Stability Program, which is an antiskid and anti-lean
system. Antilock disk brakes with Brake Assist are also
found on every model.
ETS monitors the speed of all four wheels to detect
wheel slip, then individually brakes slipping wheels
as needed. EPS brakes individual front or rear wheels
and/or reduces excess engine power as needed to help
correctundersteer oroversteer. Both these are very sophisticated
systems aimed at preventing accidents before they start.
8 standard airbags including dual front, side impact
and head protection curtains all contribute to driver
and occupant safety.
Standards, Options Packages and Style
Unique interior styling with distinctive gauges and
leather trim combine with, on the outside, 18-inch alloy
wheels, dual side-exit exhaust pipes, fender flares,
rear chrome load steps and a front brush bar. These
all contribute to the unusual but unmistakable G500.
Mercedes’ extensive collection of options means that
the already generous assortment of offerings can be
tailored to fit the most demanding consumer’s tastes.
The G-Class will satisfy both utilitarian and stylistic
concerns.
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