Used Mercedes-Benz G-Class 2012-2018 review

And yet the G-Class’s driving experience remains determinedly, irredeemably old tech. Optional 18-inch alloy wheels with 60-profile winter tyres combine with the G-Class’s rough and ready “trailing link and panhard rod” suspension for an alarmingly choppy ride on typical urban roads. Performance is as plentiful as you’d ever want given the G-Class’s approximation of body control and lack of steering precision, with a 0-62mph time of 8.9sec and a 119mph top speed.

While the 5.5-litre V8 AMG model is a different kettle of fish as it manages 0-62mph in 5.4sec and goes on to what would likely be a terrifying 130mph top speed.

But whichever version you choose this is a car you’d only ever drive slowly, particularly over larger bumps and dips, for fear of being thrown out of your seat. And regrettably, Mercedes’ electro-hydraulic power steering doesn’t seem to be powerful enough for the G-Class: the car’s helm is now seriously heavy and slow to self-centre.

None of which would matter much if you were buying the G-Class for its considerable off-road credentials. This car will forge 600mm of standing water – more than a Land Rover Defender – and has approach and departure angles to humble a Toyota Land Cruiser. There are three separate differential locks, too, for peerless traction in slippery conditions, and a low-range transfer case for the seven-speed ’box.

Add to all that the incredible reputation that the G-Class has in 4x4 circles for unstoppable reliability and robustness, and if you regularly venture off the beaten track, you might just forgive the car its ‘characterful’ on-road ride and handling.

As for the equipment levels, Mercedes has not positioned this SUV to be utilitarian like its predecessor but to reach the luxury end of the spectrum. A tough ask cosidering the rivals that preoccupy those spaces - most notably the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport but also the Bentley Bentayga. As for trims, there is only one choice for the diesel V6 and three options for the AMG-powered V8.

The G 350 d comes with 18in alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, parking sensors, a reversing camera and automatic wipers as standard on the outside, while inside is adorned with heated seats all round, leather upholstery, a Harman & Kardon Logic 7 sound system and Mercedes' Comand infotainment system - complete with an 8.0in display, DAB radio and smartphone integration.