Mercedes-Benz announced on Tuesday that the company has built its 600,000th G-Class. The SUV, an all-electric G580 with EQ Technology finished in Obsidian Black metallic, rolled off the assembly line a few days ago in Graz, Austria, where all G-Wagens are built. Rather than keep it, Mercedes plans to sell the car to a customer.
The milestone is notable, and not just because 600,000 is a nice, round number. It was just two years ago that Mercedes celebrated 500,000 G-Classes produced, showing off a unique retro-themed model that would become the inspiration for the G-Class Edition Stronger Than the 1980s. For the company to produce another 100,000 luxury SUVs in such a short time represents serious growth for the marque.
For some context, it took Mercedes three years to go from 400,000 to 500,000 G-Wagens, and roughly the same time to go from 300,000 to 400,000 units.
We're not exactly surprised to see the G-Class grow in popularity. Though the S-Class and the E-Class have been in production for longer, the military-inspired SUV has become the crown jewel of the Mercedes lineup, demanding huge markups and years-long waitlists.
The G-Class is the most customized car in the lineup, too, according to Mercedes. The company says over 90 percent of buyers choose at least one Manufaktur option, with buyers choosing three on average. The demand for exclusive paint colors has increased, too. Since last year, buyers have been able to choose from over 20,000 shades thanks to the individualization program.
Though the G-Wagen has greatly evolved since its debut in 1979, we suspect its success can be attributed to its ability to hold onto its roots. The SUV's silhouette has remained essentially unchanged for nearly 50 years—an incredible feat considering today's safety and aerodynamic demands. And while it's gotten a whole lot faster and more luxurious, the G-Wagen retains its off-road prowess, with a proper ladder frame, a two-speed transfer case, and three locking differentials.
Here's to 700,000 G-Wagens, and beyond.
