2004 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG

For its second year of availability in North America, the G55 AMG from Mercedes-Benz received a few tweaks to its already-stellar lineup of features. New multicolor front seats were added to the package, as were rear parking sensors and an upgraded Harmon Kardon audio system.

Beyond that, there wasn't much you could add to the G55. Pick just about any feature category that's important to you and it excels. Cargo capacity? You've got 45 cubic feet behind the rear seat and a whopping 80 cubic feet with the rear seats are folded down. Horsepower? A beefed-up 349 hp, generated by a 5.4-liter, single-overhead-cam, 24-valve V8. Off-road capabilities? Rigid axles, triple locking differentials (front, center, and rear) for different types of terrain, gas shocks, and premium 18-inch tires. On-road capabilities? Aided by an electronic stability program and 4-wheel electronic traction system.

Of course, we also have to include the G55's standard luxury features, which include power-adjustable heated leather seats, wood interior trim, two-zone automatic climate control, a lighted entry system, power sunroof, cruise control, trip computer, anti-theft alarm system, and a whole lot more.