Another one that proves Japan is not only about Skylines and Type Rs. This 2017 Mercedes G350d landed with us recently, and it is the sort of car that is worth picking up from the Japanese market as opposed to the slim pickings in the UK.
A 3.0 litre V6 turbo diesel, 245 horsepower, 52,000 miles and an auction grade of 4.5. Everybody knows what a G Wagon is but not many people know they can buy one from Japan.
Built Like Nothing Else
The G-Class has been in production in roughly this shape since 1979, and it shows in all the right ways. Ladder frame chassis, permanent four wheel drive and a body that has never once bothered itself with aerodynamics. The G is short for Geländewagen, which translates as cross country vehicle, and it means exactly what it says.
The 3.0 V6 diesel pairs with a seven speed automatic and delivers its torque exactly where a car like this wants it, low down and in a steady wave rather than a spike. It will haul, it will tow and it will sit on the motorway all day.
Three Diff Locks And No Excuses
Three locking differentials, front, centre and rear, operated by three proper switches on the dashboard rather than buried in a touchscreen menu. Lock all three and the G350d will drive out of situations that would strand most things wearing a premium badge.
Rocks, sand, mud, ruts and fields. There is very little the G-Class cannot deal with, and unlike most modern off roaders it is not relying on electronics to fake its way through. This is a mechanically capable vehicle originally developed for military use, and Mercedes hasn't watered that down to chase comfort...
Why Import One
Inside there is plenty of leather, an upright driving position with a commanding view forward and 2,250 litres of boot space with the seats down, which is more than a Range Rover or a Bentayga will give you.
Japanese market cars tend to have led easier lives than their UK equivalents. Less salt, less motorway grind and a culture that takes servicing seriously. This one carries an auction grade of 4.5 at 52,000 miles, which tells you it has been looked after properly rather than simply parked up.
We have been importing from Japan since 2001 and we handle personal imports from the auction house to your driveway. Every step handled by us.
Fancy one? Get in touch and we will tell you what it takes to get it here.
