How to choose the perfect SUV: a complete breakdown using the examples of the Mercedes G63, G500, G350d, and BMW X5 3.0d

Choosing an SUV is more than just a matter of design or brand

It’s important to understand which criteria truly affect ease of use—whether it’s city driving, countryside trips, or serious off-road. Modern SUVs offer different levels of capability, comfort, and technology, and finding the perfect balance isn’t easy.

In this article, we’ll determine which SUV to choose based on your tasks by comparing the Mercedes G63 AMG, Mercedes G500, Mercedes G350d, and BMW X5 3.0d.

And if you want to test any of these cars before buying or rent one for a trip, you can do it at the premium rental service LaoCar.by in Belarus.

Main criteria for choosing an SUV

Before choosing an SUV, understand which parameters actually matter:

1. Off-road capability — is the vehicle suitable for tough conditions?
2. Ride comfort — how comfortable is the SUV in the city and on the highway?
3. Interior quality — premium materials, seating, and convenience.
4. Tech and features — infotainment, driver aids, safety.
5. Fuel consumption and efficiency — diesel or petrol?
6. Versatility — can it serve both city life and off-road?

1. Off-road ability: true SUV or crossover?

An SUV’s capability depends on drivetrain type, ground clearance, locking differentials, and body geometry.

• Mercedes G63 AMG — 4MATIC AWD, low range, and three locking diffs make it a true off-roader for extreme conditions.
• Mercedes G500 — similar to G63 but without the aggressive sport suspension tuning; smoother on road while keeping strong off-road ability and reliability.
• Mercedes G350d — the diesel G-Wagon keeps all the off-road traits with better fuel economy.
• BMW X5 3.0d — an AWD crossover with xDrive; no ladder frame or diff locks. Great in snow, mud, and light trails, but not for extremes.

Conclusion: For serious off-road, choose the G350d, G500, or G63 AMG. If you need a city/highway vehicle with occasional nature trips, the BMW X5 3.0d is optimal.

2. Ride comfort: handling, suspension, and noise

• G63 AMG — despite the ladder frame, its adaptive suspension delivers decent comfort, but it’s still firm on asphalt due to big wheels and design.
• G500 — a softer setup makes it more comfortable in the city and on highways.
• G350d — the diesel is quieter inside and feels smoother, though the frame still brings some firmness.
• BMW X5 3.0d — class-leading comfort: independent suspension, high noise isolation, and adaptive dampers make it ideal for long trips.

Conclusion: If highway/city comfort and handling are the priority, the BMW X5 3.0d wins. If maximum off-road matters, look toward a true SUV.

3. Cabin and trim: where does it feel most premium?

• Mercedes G63 AMG and G500 — Nappa leather, Alcantara, and metal; superb materials with a classic layout that can feel less ergonomic than the newest concepts.
• Mercedes G350d — more restrained leather/wood finish, keeping the traditional G-Wagon premium vibe.
• BMW X5 3.0d — iDrive, digital displays, supportive seats; wood, aluminum, Merino leather, plus options like massage seats and premium audio (Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins).

Conclusion: For the most tech-forward, user-friendly cabin, pick the BMW X5 3.0d. For classic premium style with off-road character, consider the G500 or G63 AMG.

4. Fuel consumption and efficiency

• Mercedes G63 AMG — thirstiest: ~20–25 L/100 km city.
• Mercedes G500 — a bit better: ~18–20 L/100 km.
• Mercedes G350d — about 9–12 L/100 km (diesel), great for long trips.
• BMW X5 3.0d — ~7–9 L/100 km (diesel), very efficient.

Conclusion: If efficiency matters, choose the G350d or BMW X5 3.0d.

Where to test SUVs?

Before buying, it’s crucial to see which car truly fits your needs. At LaoCar.by you can rent a Mercedes G63 AMG, G500, G350d, and BMW X5 3.0d to experience them in real conditions.

Conclusion

If you need maximum off-road capability, choose the G350d or G500. If you want an aggressive sport-SUV, the G63 AMG is optimal. And if comfort and modern tech are your priorities, the BMW X5 3.0d is the best choice.

Test each one at LaoCar.by and choose the perfect vehicle for your needs!