Vehicle Overview

More than one automaker would like to believe that its sport utility vehicle is the ultimate one. Mercedes-Benz took a bold step in that direction with the G-Class (G500), which evolved from the no-compromises Geläendewagen that had been sold in Europe. Introduced during the 2002 model year, the limited-production G500 had a sticker price of $72,500 (not including the destination charge). Because of its midseason debut, only minor modifications are likely for 2003, but Mercedes-Benz has not yet released any information.

With its M-Class model on sale in the United States since 1998, Mercedes-Benz focused largely on road-going manners. The Geläendewagen, in contrast, is a hard-core offroad machine inspired by the demands of military service but transformed into a high-end luxury SUV. The German automaker claims that it will climb an 80-percent grade and remain stable on a 54-percent lateral slope. Handcrafted in Graz, Austria, the G500 faces such competitors as the V-8-powered BMW X5, the Land Rover Range Rover 4.6 HSE, the Lexus LX 470 and even the Hummer H1. Far more than the M-Class, the G500 is nearly in a class by itself.

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    Important safety notes
    Service products include the following: • fuels (e.g. gasoline, diesel) • lubricants (e.g. engine oil, transmission oil) • coolant • brake fluid • windshield washer fluid Vehicle components and ...

    Switching the rear window wiper on/ off
    Combination switch 1. Switch 2. To wipe with washer fluid 3. I To switch on intermittent wiping 4. 0 To switch off intermittent wiping 5. To wipe with washer fluid •► Turn ...

    Opening and closing the side windows
    1. Front left 2. Front right 3. Rear right 4. Rear left The switches for all side windows are located on the driver's door. There is also a switch on each door for the corresponding ...