Mercedes-Benz G-Class alive and kicking: comprehensive upgrade!
Three engine variants, soon to be four
In addition to Mercedes-AMG’s new performance offroader – the Mercedes-AMG G 63 – the Mercedes-Benz G 450 d and the Mercedes-Benz G 500 available. All engines are now electrified. As mild hybrids with 48V technology, they should achieve lower consumption on paper. The first all-electric variant of the G-Class will be added to the lineup at a later date. That will be the EQG.
Design refreshed
On the cosmetic front, some adjustments have also been made. Visible changes include a grille with four instead of the previous three horizontal slats and a new front and rear bumper. The front bumper has an updated grille look. New trim on the A-pillars and a spoiler edge on the roof trim contribute to improved aerodynamics and increased sound comfort.
Interior
The interior is luxurious and functional at the same time. With the integration of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, the new G-Class is more digital than ever. Optional Keyless Go, heated/cooled cupholders, the Burmester 3D surround sound system and the MBUX high-end entertainment system provide added comfort. Of course, it is possible to personalize the G-Class down to the last detail.
Mercedes-Benz G 500 and G 450 D
The Mercedes-Benz G 500 is powered by a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with twin turbocharging via an exhaust gas turbo and an electric auxiliary compressor. The gasoline engine produces an output of 330 kW (449 hp) and maximum torque of 560 Nm. The ISG briefly delivers 15 kW (20 hp) of extra power and 200 Nm of extra torque. The system also powers the 48V on-board grid. Completing the engine lineup is the six-cylinder diesel engine in the Mercedes-Benz G 450 d. It produces a power output of 270 kW (+15 kW) (367 hp + 20 hp). Torque is 750 (+200) Nm.
Mercedes-AMG G 63
The Mercedes-AMG G 63 is powered by the proven 4.0-liter AMG V8 biturbo engine. It delivers 430 kW (585 hp) and maximum torque of 850 Nm. New is the combination with 48V technology and an integrated starter alternator (ISG). This electrification briefly provides an additional boost of 15 kW (20 hp) of power and 200 Nm of torque. From standstill, the new Mercedes-AMG G 63 takes just 4.4 seconds to accelerate to 100 km/h (62 mph). This dynamic drive continues up to a top speed of 220 km/h. The optionally available AMG Performance package provides a top speed of 240 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.
Delivery to the birthplace of the G-Class
Since 2023, G-Class buyers can pick up their new acquisition at the G-Class Experience Center in Graz, Austria, and experience an unforgettable day. Pure driving pleasure awaits them on a 100,000square meter site. They can test the versatility of the off-road icon in specially designed vehicles on the on- and off-road course. The supporting program also includes a tour of MAGNA Steyr’s factory, with fascinating views of the production process. The highlight, of course, is the handover where the new G-Class is presented to the customer in a glass cube. Detailed vehicle instructions are then given. The package for two also includes an exclusive dinner, hotel accommodation in downtown Graz with breakfast and personal shuttle service. Those wishing to book a delivery of the G-Class at the factory can contact the Mercedes-Benz dealer.
Offroading in a G-Class
With Dynamic Select, the driving characteristics of the new G-Class can be adjusted at the touch of a button and in just a few seconds. The system modifies the driving characteristics of engine, transmission, chassis, ESP® and steering. The “Comfort,” “Sport,” “ECO” and “Individual” driving programs are easily selected with the Dynamic Select switch.
Three additional driving programs are available in the new G-Class for off-road driving. ‘Trail’ provides optimized handling characteristics in light terrain with loose surfaces, for example on unpaved roads or gravel. The “Rock” driving program is designed for driving in medium and difficult, uneven terrain with hard, rocky surfaces. Suspension and steering are punishingly tuned. As a third off-road option, “Sand” offers enhanced driving dynamics through control interventions. ESP® is specially tuned for sandy surfaces and provides greater safety during dynamic driving, for example when braking. Drivers can also set the off-road driving programs with the Dynamic Select switch.
Offroad Cockpit
The updated offroad control unit provides drivers with direct access to the new Ofrroad Cockpit. It provides an overview of the important, relevant data for off-road driving on both the driver display and the media display. It also offers features to support off-road driving. Content is displayed with different tiles, which can be changed with the directional arrows or by swiping. There are also buttons for quick access to certain vehicle functions relevant to off-road driving. Data displayed includes an artificial horizon, position data, compass, ride height, front axle steering angle, torque, power, tire pressure and tire temperature plus status of the limited slip differentials.
Transparent hood
The “transparent hood” function can be called up from the offroad menu in the central display. Combined with the 360° camera, this feature allows a virtual view under the front of the vehicle. For the camera display of the “transparent hood” in the media display, the vehicle combines images from the front camera and the two exterior mirror cameras. In addition, lane visualization helps in choosing the optimal driving route. This enables drivers of the new G-Class to react quickly when needed – for example, when encountering obstacles such as debris or rocks. The feature also helps optimally assess hilltops, slopes and descents when they are no longer visible through the windshield because the angle is too steep.