By Kimatni D. Rawlns and Uthman Ray
We first met at the extravagant Monterey Car Week a few years ago and have been connected ever since. This intriguing meetup is where VIP attendees witness the most fabulous classic cars, potent supercars, iconic concepts, and opulent EVs in the world. It’s the show of all shows! Since I’m the publisher of Automotive Rhythms and Marquis Thomas is an aficionado of mobility technology, we immediately bonded like kids on a playground.
Interestingly enough, Marquis is a tech innovator and data center infrastructure engineer, making him one of the most intriguing car collectors you will ever meet. He is young, humble, and highly dedicated to family values. In addition to his Lambo and Porsche collection, Marquis is a faithful Mercedes-Benz (M-B) fanatic who travels globally to experience the German machinery. One vehicle in particular is the lauded G-Class, defined by Geländewagen, which translates to off-road vehicle. Its exploits are legendary, its capabilities are fascinating, and its reputation is idolized by fans from every denomination of society. But to the global masses the SUV is better known as the G-Wagen!
When I mentioned going to Graz, Austria, where the utility is hand-built with precision and home to the G-Class Experience Center, he humbly replied, “You’re going to love it, Kimatni.” Meaning, he beat me to the punch. See, Marquis was invited last year as a special VIP guest since he owns a custom Mercedes-AMG G 63 4×4² and a few other M-Bs. It is outfitted with 24” AL13 | 109 5 wheels
wrapped in 37” Nitto tires. The Toyzrus stamped outer rim is super cool as well. Proud owners and brand loyalists worldwide visit the G Base to comprehend the DNA, physics, and superpowers of the muscularly rugged G-Class. On site, you can evaluate various models from the all-electric G 580 with EQ Technology to the stalwart G 63 AMG.
Automotive Rhythms: What made you add a G-Class to your roster? I always took you for a sports car devotee.
Marquis: Ever since I first laid eyes on the G 55 AMG back in 2005, owning a G-Wagen became a dream of mine. In 2016 I purchased my first, a 2015 G 63 AMG 4MATIC, and it was everything I had hoped for. The bold road presence, the unmistakable rumble, the performance, and the comforts all lived up to my expectations. From that moment I made a promise that I would always keep a G-Class in my collection. Since then, I’ve owned multiple G 63 AMGs and two 4×4² models, and each has reinforced my original decision.
Automotive Rhythms: What other storied vehicles are in your arsenal?
Marquis: I’ve always had a passion for American muscle. Back in high school I drove them in barely running condition, but now I get to keep a few cherry classics in the pack. My dream car, which I’m proud to own, is a 1970 Chevelle SS convertible.
I’m also a big fan of Porsche 911s and other Mercedes-Benz models. One of my beloved classics is a flawless 1992 500E, a true wolf in sheep’s clothing. Regarding modern performance, I love spending time behind the wheel of my AMG GT 63 Coupes. But if I’m not out enjoying a classic or supercar on weekends, chances are you’ll find me in the G 63 AMG 4×4².
Automotive Rhythms: Why did you go with a Black G?
Marquis: There’s just something about a Mango Black G-Class that instantly commands respect. It’s bold, aggressive, and unapologetic. The dark tone makes the truck look like an absolute beast. For me, nothing else captures the G’s personality quite the same.
Automotive Rhythms: The G-Class seems near and dear to your heart. Take us inside your mindset after discovering its full capabilities at the G-Class Experience Center in Graz, Austria.
Marquis: Incredible! The Graz off-road experience was unforgettable; I’ll brag about it for the rest of my life. Taking the G through the same proving grounds where every G-Class is tested gave me a revived appreciation for its engineering. The climbs, the descents, the water crossings-it handled each obstacle with ease. I walked away convinced that my G 63 AMG 4×4² is the ultimate “bug-out” truck.
Automotive Rhythms: Outside of its 4-liter biturbo V8 that produces 605-horsepower, what did you discover about the Mercedes-AMG G-Wagen that you were previously unaware of?
Marquis: Ha, I immediately realized that I didn’t know nearly as much about the G-Class as I thought. Most importantly, I learned how to use the truck’s three differential locks properly and experience its true all-terrain talents. I’ve always admired the G for its design and presence, but getting hands-on with its engineering showed me how capable it truly is. The lesson provided me with new levels of respect for the G-Class.
Automotive Rhythms: How does the G-Wagen compare to other performance or luxury SUVs, such as the Range Rover HSE?
Marquis: It honestly doesn’t compare since the G-Class is literally in a class of its own. Whether a Land Rover, Escalade, or HUMMER, I’ve owned and driven some of the most prestigious SUVs money can buy. They all have their strengths, but the G-Class stands apart on and off the pavement. The legendary utility is more than just an SUV; it’s an icon that blends uncompromising off-road performance with daily usability and unmatched character. That combination is why the G continues to represent the cornerstone of my fleet, and why I’ll always keep one in the collection.
Automotive Rhythms: Thank you, sir! Your reverence for the G-Class brand is mirrored by millions around the globe. Officially G-Proved, you now represent the coveted 5% of G-Class owners who’ve discovered the off-roader’s overlanding aptitude at the G-Class Experience Center.
Stronger than time, the G-Class continues to embody the spirit of nostalgia for the influential. It can be seen and heard in popular music videos and prominently on the streets of every major metropolis, whether Los Angeles, Dallas, or Miami. Last year, LA was the epicenter for the launch of the electric G-Class for Hollywood’s elite. The evening featured a performance by Travis Scott and attendance from familiar faces across film, music, sports, and fashion including Trevor Noah, AMG Petronas F1 Driver George Russell, Tracee Ellis Ross, Damson Idris, Saweetie, Ciara, and Kendall Jenner who loaned her G 500 Cabriolet to M-B to exhibit at the prestigious outdoor party.
EQ represents M-B’s advanced electric vehicle platform. At the same time, Mercedes-AMG’s One Man, One Engine build philosophy brings new meaning to life as the powerful and pompous performance SUV blesses you with unmitigated bliss after every drive. To dive deeper into Marquis’s passions, we connected like quarterbacks and receivers for an overview of his strategic game plan.
For more information and booking, make sure to visit the G-Class Experience Center. It’s where legends live!
