Iconic G-Class Dominates St. Moritz During Winter Season

ST. MORITZ, Switzerland — As winter descends upon the Swiss Alps, the iconic Mercedes G-Class continues to capture attention in the elite jet-set resort of St. Moritz. Since its launch in 1979, this rugged SUV has evolved from a utility vehicle into a symbol of luxury and status. With a particular affinity for winter enthusiasts, the G-Class is a common sight during the town’s festive events, including the recent ‘White Turf’ weekend.

In an effort to quantify its presence, a local survey counted an impressive 42 G-Class vehicles in a single day. This number, which coincidentally mirrors the famous answer to the ultimate question of life in Douglas Adams‘ “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,” underscores the model’s cult appeal in this mountain enclave.

Among the various configurations available, the G63 AMG stands out as the most sought-after variant among Swiss consumers. Powered by a 4.0-liter V8 engine, this powerhouse accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds, showcasing the SUV’s impressive performance despite its hefty 2.6-ton weight. Its agile handling through alpine passes, combined with a distinctive sound from side exhaust pipes, adds to its allure.

Despite the availability of more economical choices like the G500 and G450 Diesel, approximately two-thirds of buyers opt for the G63 AMG, illustrating that prestige often overrides practicality in this luxury segment. The G63’s starting price of 234,900 Swiss francs and a consumption rate of at least 14.8 liters per 100 kilometers highlight the exclusivity associated with owning this vehicle.

While the population of St. Moritz hovers around 5,200 throughout the year, the G-Class has become as prevalent in winter as the ubiquitous VW Golf. Many of the non-AMG models spotted were registered from neighboring countries, primarily Italy and Germany, reflecting the brand’s cross-border appeal.

The G-Class appeals to a diverse audience, from those who admire its timeless design to enthusiasts captivated by its potent performance. The classic four-door model dominates both sales and visibility, but other variants, including a rare 4×2 model and a convertible, were also noted during the vehicle count.

The exclusivity reaches new heights with the limited edition 6×6 model, which requires a specialized category C driver’s license due to its weight exceeding 3.5 tons, appealing only to those with deep pockets.

As winter continues in St. Moritz, the presence of the G-Class embodiment of luxury and power remains undeniable, captivating both residents and visitors alike.