2009 Mercedes Benz G550

This is, by far, the coolest vehicle I've ever driven. On the outside it doesn't look very special, but inside it's very modern and luxurious. The V-8 provides tons of power, and it sounds awesome.

I've always admired the boxy looks of the Geländewagen and the fact that those looks are backed up by some serious off-road equipment. Three locking differentials (front, rear, and center), solid front and rear axles, and honest-to-God metal springs make this a very respectable off-roader with all the typical German touches inside. If only Hummer could figure out how to build a vehicle like this...

I honestly can't think of a thing I'd want to change about this G550. It handles well enough on the road, has surprisingly little wind and tire noise, and does everything you need an SUV to do. The S-class has long been my favorite Benz, but now the G-wagen holds that spot in my heart, and I doubt that anything can usurp it.

There are a million reasons why vehicles like the G-class make no sense, but after a few minutes behind the wheel, none of them matter. This is just the most interesting vehicle you can buy today.

Phil Floraday, Senior Online Editor