Am I crazy? G-wagen to LR4

[Zecko]

Hi,

I just joined the forum even though I've been lurking on this site for a while. I'm contemplating selling my 2002 Mercedes G500 and purchasing an LR4. I'm wondering whether any LR owners have either made the switch or have experience with both vehicles who can share their thoughts.

Here's why.... my truck is now 10+years old with over 130K miles. Even though it hasn't given me any real issues, I suspect that in another 2-5 years I may need to put in considerably more $$ to keep it running. Secondly, with larger e-rated tires my ride is somewhat rough and as I get older my preference is for my daily driver to be comfortable - not just in ride but quietness also. Third, when I do go on trips, usually easy to moderate trails (DV, Anza, Canyon De Chelle, Valley of the Gods, Moab (canyonlands), etc.) So a truck that can eat up the miles and do those types of trails is enough. Lastly, having 2 kids and chauffeuring them around with all their stuff, having a truck that's wider with more room inside would be appreciated.

My hesitation is LR reliability. I've heard that LR4's are better but having owned LR products in the past I'm still a bit skeptical. Secondly, I really do like my truck. I feel like I might regret selling it.

Anyway...I'd love to hear other's thoughts...Am I crazy?

 

[Rovertrader]

I tried the switch a few years back from LR to G wagon, and while I loved the G, the potential cost of a higher mileage truck had me sell it just before 100k miles. I went back to a Defender at the time, but drive an LR3 as DD now, and must say I feel it superior in all the aspects you mention above. Reliability has been grossly improved over the D-II, P38, etc era trucks, and not a consideration any more- honestly. I worry about suspension air bags, but it can limp home if stock tires/height, and only need extended bump stops in an emergency in the boonies to get home. The kids are much more comfortable in the LR3, it also has third row seats so each child has a row when a friend is along. No negatives to speak of from this user. And when traveling, the lack of wind turbulence and the ride of being on air is fantastic!!
Not really a tough decision to me, but I do understand the attachment to the G as well...

 

[ChuckB]

I can't offer any insight on this topic. However, I am interested in peoples' opinions and comments as I'm contemplating both of these vehicles for my next purchase.

...Back to lurking on this one

 

[Scott Brady]

I'm wondering whether any LR owners have either made the switch or have experience with both vehicles who can share their thoughts.

I have a G-Class and a LR4 and a MKIII RR. The G-Wagon is an exceptional vehicle and would most likely be my choice if I could only have one vehicle. The benefit of the LR4 would be mid to high speed performance and general highway/city comfort and refinement. The LR4 can approach rally car performance with 400hp and the adjustable suspension. Both have equivalent aftermarket support.

Most likely the ultimate combo would be MKIII Range Rover (supercharged of course) for daily use and a Mercedes G500 for long-distance exploration in North America. If your goals are further afield then there are few motivations for buying the vehicle in the US.

 

[Rovertrader]

I thought the question was for one vehicle to be decided between the G and LR4. Given the fact the trails mentioned are moderate, and the primary role is DD, I believe the LR will provide a better alternative. However, if multiple vehicles is an option, that is another story to answer another question...

 

[Scott Brady]

I thought the question was for one vehicle to be decided between the G and LR4.

The G-Wagon is an exceptional vehicle and would most likely be my choice if I could only have one vehicle.

It is always more valuable to answer the question, but also provide another perspective the OP may not have considered.

 

[Zecko]

Thanks for the responses guys!

It's good to hear that LR has improved their product to the point where reliability is no longer a big question mark. I'm going to check out the LR4 today and see how it compares in my eyes. As Scott mentioned a second car could be an option as well. If I do go down that route, I still don't have a good sense of what I would get. Keeping the G reduces my down payment by about $20-23k but I suppose a lease might be an option.

 

[David Harris]

I really want to try a G, but not one with all the luxuries that the NAS trucks have. For me the G's real personality is the Professional or one of the original G's. I've thought of importing an old one from Europe and restoring it someday.

David

 

[Rovertrader]

David- I have buddies who have gone the G resto route, and they all say it makes Defenders look economical- no first hand experience, but the rumors are consistent...

 

[discotdi]

I've never owned a G, but I've driven newer and older and can't imagine buying one if it were my only vehicle. The ride quality sucks, handles like an old Cadillac or boat, the steering is stiff and imprecise, the back cargo door is heavy, fuel economy is terrible. No way it stacks up to a new LR4. And its name should never be mentioned in the same breath as a newer Range Rover. It looks cool, but compares more to an old Defender in ride and handling.

 

[Breadfan]

We have an LR3, being one of my all time dream trucks (G Wagen is the other) we are extremely pleased. In preparation to finagle ours to be mine, I took a quick trip to my local dealer to tell them I am in the market for 2010 LR4 or Range Rover Sport (don't want to buy new, since most of these never see dirt in my area of socal and are usually dealer maintained). They told me I would get a better deal on the Sport because of the lack of availability in second hand stock of LR4's. Further, a second hand LR4 is in short supply because some of their higher end customer base have switch from Rangies and Sports and are buying LR4's to either replace or have as an additional along with their Rangie. As a side note, he said that the LR4 is a marked imporvement over the LR3, which I can say first hand is an amazing vehicle, also it is apparent that others in your position are taking a real long look and apparently choosing the LR4.

You sir, are in quite a conundrum, though I would definitely say this is one hell of a probelm to have.....

 

[spikemd]

The LR4 is indeed a nice upgrade from the LR3. The interior is much nicer and engines have improved. Try and find an HD package for the electronically locking rear diff to enhance offroad capability.

Go test drive it. You will know if you like it very quickly.

 

[getlost4x4]

I have a P38 and i'm looking to get the wife an LR3. The LR3 is a vast improvement over the older stuff. the jag motor is nice along with the 6 speed auto. Air ride is much improved over the old crap. The air compressors can fail, suspension bushings, and differential bearings seem to be the biggest problems.

I'm still looking for one with the HD package and Zeon HID's and cold weather package.

 

[krnnerdboy]

I have a g500 for exploring and my uzj100 for daily. I'm looking to trade the uzj100 in for an lr3 but I would never trade the g500 for an lr4. Ill just get a newer g500 when it comes time

 

[Scott Brady]

No way it stacks up to a new LR4. And its name should never be mentioned in the same breath as a newer Range Rover.

They are different vehicles, much in the same way an LR4 is different from a Defender. The G-Wagon is a heavy, overbuilt military vehicle that has been lightly adapted to commercial and civilian use. It is better than an LR4 or MKIII in some ways and not as good in others. Having done remote, solo travel in Africa with G-Wagons, I appreciate its strengths. It is a world-class exploration platform.