Is G Wagon good for towing?

Yes. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class can tow substantial loads, with typical maximum trailer weights around 7,000 to 7,700 pounds depending on the model and equipment.

Beyond that baseline, towing with a G-Wagon involves considering its heavy curb weight, ample torque, and the right towing configuration. This article explains what you should know about capacity, real-world performance, and best practices for towing with a G-Class SUV.

G-Class towing capacity by model

To help prospective buyers and owners gauge capability, here are the common towing figures for the main G-Class variants. Exact ratings can vary by model year and optional equipment, so always confirm with Mercedes for your VIN.

• G 550 4MATIC: approximately 7,000 pounds (about 3,175 kg) of maximum trailer weight, depending on year and equipment.


• AMG G63: typically in the 7,000–7,700 pounds range (roughly 3,175–3,500 kg), depending on configuration and options.

Conclusion: For most mid-size trailers, boats, or caravans, both the G 550 and G63 can handle the load, provided you stay within the official ratings and use proper hitching and braking equipment.

Towing considerations and best practices

To plan and execute safe towing with a G-Wagen, consider these practical guidelines and adjustments that impact performance and safety.

• Verify weight limits: Always check the gross vehicle weight rating, tongue weight, and gross combined weight rating for your exact model and year, and stay within those numbers.


• Use the right equipment: rely on the factory or manufacturer-approved hitch, wiring harness, and, if needed, trailer brakes and a brake controller appropriate for the trailer’s weight.


• Mind weight distribution: Ensure proper tongue weight (roughly 10–15% of the trailer’s total weight) and balance the load to avoid sway and poor handling.


• Monitor cooling and powertrain: Prolonged towing can raise engine/transmission temperatures; use appropriate drive modes if available and allow for adequate cooling periods during long climbs or hot days.


• Plan for braking and stopping: Heavier trailers increase stopping distances; maintain a larger following distance and anticipate downhill descents with engine braking or downhill assist features when offered.


• Respect aerodynamics and wind: Large trailers can catch crosswinds; drive smoothly, avoid abrupt steering input, and reduce speed in gusty conditions.


• Pre-trip and maintenance: Inspect tires, hitch connections, lights, and wiring before departure; ensure the trailer’s brakes, lights, and safety chains are in good condition.

Conclusion: The G-Wagen is capable of towing substantial loads when equipped correctly and operated with care. The key is honoring official ratings, using proper towing hardware, and adjusting driving behavior to the added mass behind the vehicle.

Summary

Bottom line: The G-Class offers robust torque, a strong frame, and competitive towing figures for its class, making it a credible option for mid-size trailers and boats. Prospective buyers should confirm exact towing specs for their model year and configuration, install the appropriate hitching and braking equipment, and drive conservatively when towing. With proper setup and precautions, the G-Wagon can be a capable towing partner without sacrificing its hallmark off-road capability and luxury feel.

What are the downsides of G-Wagon?

Mercedes G-Wagon suspension issues can manifest as excessive noise, uneven tire wear, or a rough ride. These problems often arise from wear and tear over time, particularly if the vehicle has been used heavily off-road. Regular maintenance checks can help mitigate these issues and ensure a smoother driving experience.

What Mercedes is best for towing?

The best Mercedes for towing is generally the GLE, GLS, or G-Class, all of which have a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. For lighter-duty towing, the GLC can tow up to 3,500 pounds. The Sprinter van is a commercial/cargo option capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds. 
This video discusses the towing capabilities of the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63S: 1mOut MotorsportsYouTube · Aug 11, 2023
Luxury SUVs with high towing capacity

• GLE: Has a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, making it suitable for large trailers or campers. 
• GLS: Also has a 7,700-pound towing capacity and offers the largest, most luxurious three-row SUV experience. 
• G-Class: Can tow up to 7,700 pounds and is known for its iconic design and off-road capability. 
• Mercedes-Maybach GLS: Offers the same 7,700-pound towing capacity as the standard GLS, but with enhanced ultra-luxury features. 

SUVs for lighter-duty towing

• GLC: A good option for lighter loads, with a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. 

Vans for commercial and cargo use

• Sprinter 2500: Can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it a strong choice for commercial use or outfitting as a camper van. 

What to consider

• Towing capacity varies by model and configuration. Always check the specific vehicle's specifications to ensure it meets your needs. 
• Electric options: While some electric SUVs can tow (like the EQC at nearly 4,000 pounds), the highest capacities are found in the traditional gasoline and diesel models. 
• Payload capacity: Don't forget to factor in payload capacity, which is the weight the vehicle can carry in passengers and cargo, in addition to what it can tow. 

How much can a G-Wagon tow?

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class towing capacity varies by model year, but for recent models like the 2025, it can be up to 3500 kg (approx. 7716 lbs). Older models might have a capacity of 7,000 lbs, and it's essential to check the specific vehicle's owner's manual or manufacturer's specifications for the most accurate information.
 

• Recent Models (2025): Up to 3500 kg (approximately 7,716 pounds). 
• Older Models: Around 7,000 pounds for models like the 2022. 
• Important Note: Always consult your owner's manual for your specific G-Class model and year to confirm the exact towing capacity before towing. 

What is the G-Wagon loophole?

The "G-Wagon loophole" refers to a tax deduction available under Section 179 of the IRS tax code, which allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of certain heavy vehicles. To qualify, a vehicle must weigh over 6,000 pounds (gross vehicle weight rating) and be used for business at least 50% of the time. While originally intended for heavy-duty work vehicles like tractors, the law unexpectedly allows for luxury SUVs and trucks to qualify as well.
 
This video explains how the "G-Wagon loophole" works and why it's not technically illegal: 57sIdealYouTube · Nov 14, 2025
How it works

• Heavy-duty vehicle deduction: Section 179 allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment, including vehicles, in the year it's purchased. 
• Qualifying vehicles: To qualify, a road vehicle must have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 6,000 pounds, but not more than 14,000 pounds. 
• Business use requirement: The vehicle must be used for business purposes more than 50% of the time. 
• Original intent: The law was created to help small businesses in 2010, and lawmakers believed the weight requirement would only apply to work trucks and commercial vehicles. However, because many modern SUVs and trucks, including luxury models like the G-Wagon, are heavier than 6,000 pounds, they now qualify. 

Key considerations

• Ownership: The vehicle should ideally be titled to the business, not the individual. 
• Documentation: You must keep accurate records, such as a mileage log, to prove business use. 
• Depreciation: By choosing the Section 179 deduction, you are electing to use "actual expenses" rather than the standard mileage rate, and you cannot deduct the standard mileage rate for the vehicle. 
• Tax savings: While you can deduct the purchase price, remember this is a deduction that reduces your taxable income, not a dollar-for-dollar tax credit. The actual tax savings depend on your tax bracket. 
• IRS limitations: The maximum Section 179 deduction can be capped. For example, the maximum deduction for SUVs in 2023 was limited to $28,900$ 28 comma 900$28,900. 

This video explains how to use Section 179 and related deductions: 58sMichael GirdleyYouTube · Dec 20, 2024