A Mercedes-Benz G-Class isn't a logical buy, but that's just why it has endured so long. Not everyone wants an economical sedan, after all. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has moved far from its roots as a utilitarian vehicle designed with soldiers in mind.
Pros Authentic design and heritage Stellar off road Luxuriously updated inside Phenomenal powertrains
Cons You could buy a fleet of Jeep Wranglers for this money Dated in every possible way Sits so high, it comes with its own steps Requires off-road skill, for better or worse
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class ranks 8 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is more of a status symbol than an everyday SUV. It costs more than every competitor, and it isn't particularly practical to drive anywhere but off road. However, if you want something that'll grab attention and impress, it doesn’t get more distinctive than the G-Class, also known as the G550.
Pros Excellent off-roader Muscular engines
Cons Unsettling ride for luxury class Cumbersome and difficult to handle on pavement Few driver assistance technologies
For 2017 the G-Class gains a new variant: the G550 4x4², which gains more ground clearance, larger tires and a revised suspension. New cosmetic packages (Designo Manufaktur Luxury and Mojave packages, Night package) have been introduced.
Pros Iconic design is instantly recognizable Outstanding forward visibility Unusually quiet when driving on-road Lots of cosmetic customization potential
Cons Awful steering, handling, drivability and fuel economy Difficult to get into and out of Poor interior packaging leaves little useful space Compromised off-road ability
The 2018 Nissan Armada ranked #6 in Large SUVs. Currently the Nissan Armada has a score of 7.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 19 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Strong V8 engine Good towing capacity Expansive second-row seats Well-built cabin
Cons Outdated infotainment system Below-average cargo space Below-average fuel economy Smaller front seats than rivals
Instead of imitating the boxy and costly stalwarts of this popular segment, the Armada breaks the mold—sort of. After all, it’s still a big-bodied, fuel-thirsty family dreadnought. But the three-row Armada has a serene, expensive interior and an upscale exterior that enable it to undermine high-rent rivals when it comes to price.
Pros Rich, comfortable, and quiet interior; useful power and towing capacity; looks expensive.
Cons Old-school fuel economy, no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, imprecise steering.
Nissan redesigned the Armada last year, so the 2018 model carries over with only minor changes. NissanConnect telematics services, an 8-inch touchscreen display, HD radio, hands-free text messaging, and additional USB charging ports now come standard on all trims. A rearview mirror that can stream a constant video feed from the rear camera is also new this year
PROS High-quality interior is appealing Smooth V8 engine delivers ample power for towing and hauling Rides more comfortably, less trucklike, than some rival SUVs
CONS Third-row seating isn't as spacious as some rivals Infotainment system is dated No getting around the V8's poor fuel economy
