The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, often referred to as the G-Wagon, has long been celebrated for its unmatched off-road capabilities and distinctive, boxy design. The 2010 Mercedes-benz G-class continued this legacy, offering a potent V8 engine, sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, and a lavishly appointed interior. This model year reinforced the G-Class’s reputation as an uncompromising SUV, equally at home navigating challenging terrains and cruising city streets in style. For those seeking a vehicle that embodies both ruggedness and refinement, the 2010 G550 remained a top contender, retaining the iconic styling and engineering that have defined the Mercedes-Benz G-Class for decades.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class 2010 Front View
What’s New for the 2010 G-Class?
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz G550 maintained the core characteristics that made the G-Class so desirable, with subtle enhancements focused on improving the user experience. The most notable update for this model year was the refinement of the COMAND infotainment system. This upgrade brought enhanced graphics and improved ease of use, making the system more intuitive and visually appealing for drivers and passengers alike. Beyond this, the 2010 G550 largely carried over the successful formula of previous years, ensuring its continued appeal to loyal enthusiasts and new admirers.
Interior Luxury and Features of the 2010 G550
Stepping inside the 2010 G550 reveals a cabin meticulously crafted with premium materials. Leather upholstery and polished wood trim were standard, creating an atmosphere of sophisticated luxury. The front seats were designed for ultimate comfort, featuring both heating and ventilation, along with extensive power adjustments to cater to individual preferences. The second row mirrored this commitment to quality, offering generous space and the same high-caliber materials, ensuring a comfortable experience for all occupants.
Key interior features of the 2010 G550 included dual-zone automatic climate control, allowing for personalized temperature settings, and a sunroof to bring in natural light and fresh air. Audiophiles would appreciate the standard premium Harman Kardon audio system, delivering exceptional sound quality throughout the cabin. The updated COMAND system served as the central hub for infotainment, integrating navigation, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and a user-friendly 6.5-inch screen for managing multimedia functions.
Cabin Space and Practicality
The 2010 G550 excelled in providing a spacious environment for both passengers and cargo. Its upright design maximized headroom, offering an airy feel for both front and rear occupants. Legroom and shoulder room were more than adequate, even for longer journeys, making it a comfortable vehicle for families or groups. The rear seats were designed to comfortably accommodate three adults, further enhancing its practicality.
Cargo Capacity
The G550’s boxy silhouette wasn’t just for aesthetics; it translated directly into exceptional cargo space. Behind the second row of seats, the 2010 G550 offered a substantial 45 cubic feet of cargo volume. For larger loads, the rear seats could be folded flat, significantly expanding the available space. The side-hinged rear door, a signature G-Class design element, also conveniently housed the full-size spare tire and provided easy access to the cargo area in various situations. Inside the cabin, practical storage solutions included a sizable center console, large door pockets, and a glove compartment, ensuring ample space for personal items.
| 2010 Mercedes G-Class | 2010 Land Rover Range Rover | 2010 Lexus LX570 | 2010 BMW X5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | |||
| 5 | 5 | 8 | 5 |
| Headroom (Front/Rear inches) | |||
| 42.2 / 40.0 | 39.3 / 38.3 | 38.3 / 42.9 | 38.4 / 39.3 |
| Legroom (Front/Rear inches) | |||
| 52.5 / 41.9 | 38.9 / 35.5 | 38.9 / 34.4 | 40.0 / 36.6 |
| Cargo Space (min/max ft³) | |||
| 45.2 / 79.5 | 35.2 / 74.2 | 15.5 / 83.1 | 21.9 / 75.2 |
Materials and Color Options
The interior of the 2010 G550 showcased Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to premium materials and craftsmanship across all trim levels. Standard leather upholstery was available in classic shades such as Black, elegant Ash, and rich Chestnut Brown. These leather options were beautifully complemented by wood trim choices, including sophisticated Burl Walnut or modern Black Lacquer. Soft-touch materials were extensively used on the dashboard and door panels, further emphasizing the SUV’s luxurious character and attention to detail.
Advanced Features and Infotainment System
The 2010 G550 was generously equipped with advanced technology and a suite of luxury features designed to enhance the driving and passenger experience. Standard features included the aforementioned Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system, providing immersive audio, and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless smartphone integration. The DVD-based navigation system guided drivers with turn-by-turn directions, while the updated COMAND interface offered improved usability with enhanced visuals and more intuitive controls compared to previous iterations.
Additional convenience and comfort features included heated and ventilated front seats for optimal temperature regulation, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel for finding the perfect driving position, and memory settings for the driver’s seat, mirrors, and steering wheel. Keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers, and a rearview camera added further levels of convenience and safety to the 2010 G550.
Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz G550 was powered by a robust 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This powerplant delivered 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for both on-road driving and demanding off-road situations. The engine was paired with a smooth-shifting 7-speed automatic transmission, ensuring refined power delivery and responsive acceleration.
A key element of the G550’s legendary capability was its full-time all-wheel-drive system. This system incorporated a two-speed transfer case and three locking differentials (front, center, and rear), allowing drivers to optimize traction in a wide range of challenging conditions. The G550’s body-on-frame construction and solid axles further contributed to its exceptional durability and off-road prowess, hallmarks of the G-Class lineage.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency was not the primary focus of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz G550, as is typical for vehicles in this class with significant off-road capabilities and powerful engines. According to EPA estimates, the G550 achieved 11 MPG in the city and 15 MPG on the highway. While these figures may seem low compared to more fuel-efficient vehicles, they were consistent with other SUVs of similar size, weight, and performance characteristics.
| 5.5-liter V8 Seven-Speed Auto 4WD |
|---|
| Power / Torque |
| 382 hp / 391 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph |
| 6.0 seconds |
| Top Speed |
| 125 mph |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined MPG) |
| 11/15/13 |
| Max Towing Capacity |
| 3,500 lbs |
Safety Features
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz G550 prioritized safety with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. These included antilock brakes (ABS) for controlled braking, stability control to help maintain vehicle stability in challenging maneuvers, and traction control to minimize wheel slip. The G550 was also equipped with a full complement of airbags, including side curtain airbags for enhanced occupant protection in the event of a collision. Advanced driver-assistance features such as a rearview camera, parking sensors to aid in tight maneuvers, and hill-start assist for confident hill starts were also standard. It’s worth noting that neither the IIHS nor the NHTSA had crash-tested the 2010 G550 at the time of its release.
| G500 |
|---|
| Airbags |
| Standard |
| ABS |
| Standard |
| Traction Control |
| Standard |
| Stability Control |
| Standard |
| Parking Sensors |
| Standard |
S = Standard | O = Optional | N/A = Not Available
Reliability and Durability
While J.D. Power did not specifically evaluate the 2010 G550’s reliability, the G-Class as a whole had established a strong reputation for long-term durability and ruggedness. The SUV’s robust body-on-frame construction and proven mechanical components were designed to withstand demanding use in diverse conditions, from everyday driving to challenging off-road adventures. While maintenance costs for a vehicle of this caliber were generally higher than average, the G-Class was engineered for longevity and resilience.
Timeless Design
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz G550 embodied a timeless design that remained remarkably faithful to the original G-Wagon introduced decades prior. Its upright, boxy silhouette, iconic round headlights, and prominent grille made it instantly recognizable on any road. Exterior design details such as the exposed door hinges and the externally mounted spare tire on the rear door served as visual reminders of its utilitarian and off-road focused origins. The 2010 G550 came standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, a distinctive chrome grille guard, and modern LED running lights, blending classic design cues with contemporary touches.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz G550 successfully combined luxurious appointments with exceptional off-road capability and a design that has stood the test of time. Its powerful V8 engine, opulent interior, and robust construction made it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a premium SUV that could effortlessly transition from city streets to off-road trails. The 2010 G-Class solidified its position as a unique and highly desirable vehicle, appealing to those who valued both luxury and uncompromising performance in a truly iconic package.
Disclaimer: All information in this review was accurate at the time of writing. Please consult the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) for any potential recalls after the production year.
