mercedes-benz unveils the G-class luxury off-road vehicle at NAIAS 2018

the new mercedes-benz ‘G-wagen’ is still a ‘G’, only better. whether on or off the road, the SUV impresses with its performance, innovative assistance systems, outstanding handling, and safety. at the same time, the new suspension, the dynamic select driving modes, the ‘G-mode’ and the three 100‑percent differential locks enhance not only ride comfort but also agility – on any surface. 

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mercedes-benz’s ‘G-class’ luxury off-road vehicle has long been considered a design icon. its external appearance has not changed significantly since 1979. iconic elements continue to serve very specific purposes and to give the ‘G‑wagen’ its unique appearance. all these are still found in the new model: the distinctive door handle and the characteristic closing sound, the robust exterior protective strip, the exposed spare wheel on the rear door and the prominent indicator lights. features like these combined with the off-roader’s angular lines define its memorable look.

the enhanced design of the ‘G-class’ follows the philosophy of sensual purity and at the same time remains true to the character of the original. as a result, the door hinges positioned on the outside and the surface-mounted bonnet are carried over to the new generation. with the latest update, the off-roader is making the leap into a new era – both in terms of technology and form. the new ‘G-wagen’ is 53 mm longer and 121 mm wider and now has even greater presence, on the road as well as off-road.

getting in the SUV reveals that numerous design features from the exterior have been transposed into the interior. the shape of the round headlamps, for instance, is reflected in the side air vents. or the design of the iconic indicators, found again in the shape of the loudspeakers. hallmarks of the ‘G‑wagen’ include the grab handle in front of the front passenger and the chrome-highlighted switches for the three differential locks. both have been meticulously optimized and retained as characteristic features.

the clearly arranged and redesigned instrument panel features timeless tube-look analogue round dials. in other words, fans of classic round instruments will not be disappointed in the ‘G‑class’. an instrument cluster in the form of a large display showing virtual instruments is in the driver’s direct field of vision and a central display above the centre console is optionally available. in this case the two 12.3-inch displays blend visually into a widescreen cockpit beneath a shared glass cover. drivers can choose between three different styles for the displays – ‘classic’, ‘sport’ and ‘progressive’ – and also select relevant information and views according to their individual needs.

in the ‘G-class’ a high-performance 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine ensures powerful propulsion. the biturbo produces an output of 310 kW (422 hp) and a maximum torque of 610 Nm at 2000 to 4750 rpm. for the transfer of power, the 9G‑tronic automatic transmission with torque converter was specifically adapted to meet the needs of the off-road icon. the developers have managed to reduce the shift and response times of the ninw-speed transmission by means of a dedicated software application. the wide transmission ratio makes driving quieter and more comfortable especially at low engine speeds, while contributing to reducing fuel consumption.