Thinking about pulling the trigger on a used G Wagon? Get ready for a love-hate relationship with everyone on the road. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a boxy legend, known for its high resale value and off-road chops. Its iconic image is… polarizing, to say the least. Some will see you as the coolest person around; others—not so much. But that’s the price you pay for an SUV with Mercedes’ timeless style and military DNA that few vehicles can match. If you’d rather be infamous than ignored, the G Wagon just might be for you.

The Mercedes G-Class, or “G Wagon,” was first designed for military use back in 1979, so its capabilities and durability are no accident. Over the years, Mercedes refined the model, and by 2001, it officially launched for U.S. buyers. But despite lux upgrades, the G Wagon kept its boxy, utilitarian look—and a few quirks along the way. It’s one of the few cars that somehow appeals to everyone from off-roaders to city-dwellers who want to make a statement. The problem? It’s not always the statement you expect.

Why people love the G Wagon

If you’re serious about off-roading, there’s a lot to love about the G Wagon. Hoovie’s Garage host Tyler Hoover recently borrowed a used G500 and took it out to Colorado’s Rockies for a road trip. In the video, he admits there’s just something about the G’s “old truck” feel and rugged, minimalist aesthetic that’s hard to beat. “One thing this G has that no other Mercedes SUV can offer is these three buttons where you can individually lock both differentials,” he says. “Giving this G some serious off-road cred.”

Unlike special AMG trims with turbochargers, superchargers, or even V12 engines, the old G500 just had a naturally-aspirated V8. While offering ample power, its simplicity makes it much more reliable than more recent trucks.

That’s not to say newer G Wagons are weak. Despite decades of upgrades, the G Wagon has stayed true to its off-road roots. Mercedes still offers manual differential locks, which turn the G into a beast on rough terrain. While other luxury SUVs risk ripping off underbody panels on a curb, the G Wagon shrugs off rocks, mud, and hills without a scratch.

Then there’s its resale value. The 2005 model originally sold for just under $80,000. Even a well-loved, high-mileage version can still fetch $30,000 today. Hoovie himself points out that in a world of depreciating cars, “good luck finding one of these G Wagons for under $30,000.” While it may not be the cheapest off-roader, its resale value makes it a unique proposition, especially for those who want a car built to last.

Attention you didn’t ask for

Of course, G Wagon ownership isn’t all sunshine and off-road glory. For all its rugged history and undeniable charm, the G is also a serious status symbol. Dominic Scalise, in his video G Wagon Ownership is Strange, breaks down the highs and lows of the experience. “It gets so much attention, it feels like I’m driving a Ferrari F40 around,” he says. “And more often than not, it’s bad attention.” He even reports people flipping him off—or worse, hanging out of car windows to call him names.

Tyler Hoover says G Wagon ownership isn’t all bad. It’s actually a good way to get some quick status: “I’ve noticed just driving this thing around that a lot of people are looking at me just to see who is behind the wheel.” The reviewer illustrates just how much default prestige G Wagons get. “A valet will move a new Range Rover to the back row to make room for an old G-Wagon because it seems more exclusive, more special, and nobody knows why.”

Driving a G Wagon gives you a certain image, whether you deserve it or not. It’s like an unspoken initiation into a club you didn’t necessarily join. And it’s a club that others have a lot of opinions about.

Is a used G Wagon worth it?

So is a used G Wagon for you? If you’re looking for a rugged, reliable SUV with serious style, maybe. But it’s not just a car; it’s a full-on lifestyle choice. You’ll pay a premium even for an older, higher-mileage G Wagon, which starts around $30,000 for a decent model. Project trucks may dip to $20,000, but it’s rare to see a G Wagon in good shape sell for Wrangler money. But then, the G’s resale value may justify the investment—especially if you’re in it for the long haul.

Does turning heads everywhere you go sound like your thing? Browse used G Wagon listings today and make an impression..