Behind the HYPE: How the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon Became Every Celebrity's Favorite Car

What do Travis Scott, Arnold Schwarzenegger and the Pope all have in common? Besides their worldwide fame, the high-profile group share an affinity for the luxurious Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV, the popular “G-Wagon” truck that’s become a celebrity favorite over the years. But the G-Wagon’s esteemed history precedes any of the fanfare doled out by entertainers and renowned personalities, dating back as far as the early 1900s when the vehicle was primarily used for military purposes.

In fact, it would be decades before the SUV really became a civilian vehicle during the early ’90s. Additions like wood-trimmed interior and cruise control helped to modernize the utilitarian truck, but it would still be another 20 years before its official entrance into the U.S. Its limited distribution solidified the G-Wagon as an exclusive investment, a reputation that has followed the beefy model well into the new-age.

Now, it’s not only commonplace but perhaps even a mark of distinction for celebrities to flaunt the Mercedes SUV in their daily lives and on social media. Scott, for one, reportedly shelled out $1.6 million USD last month to acquire his Maybach edition. But regardless of the driver or the year in question, the G-Wagon’s prestige has proven that it can stand the test of time.

For the first installment in our Behind the Hype series, HYPEBEAST takes a closer look at the German vehicle and its longstanding history. Learn more about the luxe automobile in the video above, and for more from Mercedes, take a closer look at the newly-unveiled Vision EQS.