The Mercedes-Benz G-Class might not be the best-selling ‘Benz, but it might be the first machine you think of when you think about the brand. The hardcore off-roader has fallen into favor with high-end consumers and is almost a staple of a luxury car collection. The latest generation of G-Wagon brings significant quality-of-life upgrades like an independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering to the table. While the G-Wagon has changed over the years, its boxy, utilitarian styling and vault-like cabin have remained the same. The ’22 Mercedes-Benz G550 sports a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that sends 416 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque through a nine-speed transmission and into a four-wheel-drive system.

On this episode of Quick Spin, Autoweek executive editor Tom Murphy hops behind the wheel of the ’22 G550 and puts it through its paces. Murphy takes you on a tour of the G-Wagen before taking you along on a live drive review. Adding to the show, Murphy chats with host Wesley Wren about the G550. The pair discuss the G-Wagon’s position in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the competition and the experience of driving a G-Class. Closing the show, the pair break down what makes the Mercedes-Benz G-Class special.