Earlier last year we reported that the legendary Mercedes Geländewagen had been updated; now there’s a new model. The all-new Mercedes-Benz G-Class continues the success story of the model series that was first established in 1979 and outwardly at least it hasn’t changed much. For example, this venerable off-road icon continues to rely on tried-and-tested ladder-frame construction, three mechanical differential locks and low range off-road reduction as well as a rigid rear axle and independent front suspension. So far, so familiar; but there’s more to it than that.
Thanks to electrification, the new models offer improved responsiveness off-road and greater comfort on paved roads. The mild hybrids with an integrated starter-generator and a 48-volt on-board electrical system are also designed to impress with increased performance, reduced fuel consumption and offering a 21st Century appeal.
With the now familiar MBUX Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system and 12.3 inch driver and media displays with touch control, the new G-Class is more connected than ever. Further, a host of advanced safety and assistance systems support drivers.
The Exterior
There’s choice of models: In addition to the all-new performance off-roader from Mercedes-AMG, the G 63 (pictured here) there’s also the Mercedes-Benz G 450d diesel with combined CO² emissions of 261-227 g/km; not bad for a big beast. Additionally, the all-new Mercedes-Benz G 500 (combined CO² emissions: 281-248 g/km) is also available. All engines are now fully electrified. As mild hybrids with 48-volt technology, they offer increased performance with reduced fuel consumption. The first fully electric variant of the G-Class will round out the model portfolio at a later date, we understand.
Otherwise, it’s business as usual as the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has not significantly changed its appearance for around 45 years. The exterior design of the new models is only subtly modified. Visible changes include a radiator grille with four instead of the previous three horizontal louvres and revised front and rear bumpers. New A-pillar cladding and a spoiler lip on the roof edge contribute to improved aerodynamics and increased acoustic comfort. Our pictures tell all.
The Interior
In the interior of the all-new G-Class, off-road character meets top-class equipment. Numerous exterior design elements can also be found in the interior. For example, the side air vents take the shape of the round headlights and are now also available with useful illumination. The essential grab handle on the passenger side is still present. Meanwhile, the switches for the three differential locks remain central elements of the redesigned off-road control centre.
This latter function now also offers the option of quick access – for example to the ‘Off-road Cockpit’. The latest-generation multifunction steering wheel with touch control surfaces is upholstered in nappa leather as standard. The ambient lighting and comprehensive leather upholstery complete the ambience.
Equipped as standard in UK models, the ‘Exclusive’ Line Interior amplifies the atmosphere of well-being inside the all-new off-road powerhouse. Among other things, it includes an expanded choice of upholstery in nappa leather. There is also ambient lighting for the air vents and a Burmester 3D surround sound system with an illuminated satellite loudspeaker in the headliner. The optional ‘Manfaktur’ Package introduces the ‘Superior’ Line Interior, which transforms the cabin into a luxurious lounge. The Active Multi-contour Seat Plus package, upholstery in nappa leather and exclusive elements and decorative stitching in a diamond design contribute to this.
The MBUX infotainment system driver and media displays including touch control is in all model variants for the first time. Smartphone integration connects the mobile phone wirelessly to the MBUX multimedia system via Android Auto Wireless or Apple CarPlay. This allows occupants to make optimum use of their mobile phone functions. They also enjoy the benefits of digital radio and a USB-C port enables connections to other mobile devices.
The Ride
The monster G63 features AMG’s hand built 4.0 litre V8 petrol engine which produces 585bhp and 850Nm of torque and can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds. If that’s a bit too exciting, well, the Mercedes-Benz G 500 is powered by a 3.0 litre inline six-cylinder engine with twin turbocharging via an exhaust-gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor. The petrol engine produces 449bhp and provides a maximum torque of 560 Nm. The mild hybrid function briefly delivers an additional 20bhp of output and 200Nm of torque. It also feeds the 48-volt on-board electrical system. The range of engines is rounded off by the six-cylinder diesel in the all-new Mercedes-Benz G 450d.
In all cases power transmission is provided by the 9G-TRONIC torque-converter automatic transmission, which is specially adapted to the requirements of this off-road icon. The wide spread of the transmission makes driving comfortable and quiet, especially at low engine speeds. At the same time it helps reduce fuel consumption.
Although the G-Wagen is perfectly well behaved on metalled roads, the action of the suspension is crucial when the going gets tough. Fortunately, this aspect has been well taken care of. The suspension on the all-new G-Class includes adaptive adjustable damping as standard, which was only available as an option on the previous models. This provides even more control off-road. The dampers compensate for uneven ground even better and withstand significantly greater damping forces than passive dampers.
With roll and pitch stabilisation, the system continuously regulates the damper characteristics depending on the driving situation and automatically reduces body movements. Various components of the adaptive adjustable dampers are designed to withstand extreme conditions such as surging water, driving through mud, flying rocks and dirt.
Past experience with the previous model has shown that this tough, all-purpose vehicle is pretty much unrivalled on difficult terrain. With all the latest sophisticated technology on board we expect this vehicle to surpass all that’s gone before.
Is this the vehicle for you? One that does it all and then some? If so, please get in touch with us here at MHH International to find out about availability of this new car, its predecessor or indeed any Mercedes-Benz-AMG car from the extensive range. We export from the UK to destinations as far flung as New Zealand, Ireland, Kenya or the Caribbean via our comprehensive, tried and tested system. Please browse our website to find out more.
