Way back in the 20th Century, before the term ‘sport utility vehicle’ had even become the germ of an idea, there was the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon. Originally conceived as a military vehicle, it was first offered in a civilian version in 1979 that has since morphed into one of the finest all-round vehicles money can buy. On- or off-road, few other vehicles are its equal.
On The Outside
Stronger than time itself, the G400 retains the old-school looks that makes it stand out on the road. The current model is wider and longer than before and comes with a model-specific choice of 19” or 20” alloy wheels. It’s a big vehicle that’s for sure, with an all-angles body, being about as wide as it is tall. Don’t let the round multi-beam LED headlights, protruding indicators and utilitarian looks fool you though; this is a very sophisticated vehicle, laden with all the latest technology.
Three equipment lines are available: Edition; AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus although model specifications may vary from region to region. Eve modern trends can’t stop the G-Wagon; there’s a hybrid and subsequently a fully-electric version o the way.
On The Inside
The G400 is more extensively equipped as standard than the preceding model. This includes the high-quality interior with leather seats, an instrument panel covered in man-made leather, and open-pore wood (model dependent). Naturally there are many, many options to tailor the G-Class fully to personal preferences on new vehicles.
The interior embodies all that is best about Mercedes-Benz and as a result, the G400 offers a level of craftsmanship and customisability like no other vehicle from Mercedes-Benz. In fact, the G-Class is almost exclusively built by hand.
With a dominating view of the road ahead from the driver’s seat, other passengers are greeted by a roomy interior with generous space both front and back and a boot (trunk) that's larger than most..
In terms of opulence and luxury, this big car matches and in some cases exceeds the quality of saloon cars from this German brand. The same can be said of the driver assistance systems and infotainment options, a list longer and more extensive than most rivals have to offer. Information and entertainment are delivered through a 12.3” central display and a 12.3” digital cockpit display; Three-zone climate control, heated front and rear seats and smart phone integration add to the opulence. See the interior photographs
On The Road
Power, and plenty of it, is delivered by a 326bhp turbo-charged three-litre diesel engine, driving through the superb 9G-TRONIC torque-converter automatic gearbox, especially engineered for this model. Forget the diesel noise of old; this engine is near silent and sound is remarkably well insulated from the interior. From a standing start to 62mph (100kph) takes just 6.4 seconds, so the G400 is no slouch.
Off-road the G400 excels. Leave it in auto via one of the five driving modes: Comfort, Sport, Eco, Individual or the off-road G-Mode. This latter mode adapts the adjustable damping of the chassis, the steering as well as the accelerator characteristics and avoids unnecessary gear shifts and thus ensures optimum control and maximum off-road capability. G-Mode also activates the vehicle’s low-range transfer gearbox which can send forty per cent of the drive torque to the front axle and 60 per cent to the rear axle, but can also send almost one-hundred per cent to just one wheel. To compliment this there are three fully locking differentials (center, rear, front) activated by switches on the dashboard.
On the highway, this is a car that won’t be hustled. All the power is there when needed but rewards through a more measured approach at the wheel. Driven so, it ultimately proves capable, comfortable and relaxed, making it the consummate long-range cruiser, one that can still conquer the rough stuff. Find out more from MHH International about the fine Mercedes-Benz G400 and other models from this famous brand, available to import from the UK.
