2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class unveiled
The 2019 Mercedes Benz G-Class has been unveiled and while the vehicle features a number of substantial updates over its predecessor, the iconic Geländewagen largely stays the course.
The new G-Class, despite looking like the old model, is actually very new. It’s longer by 53 mm, and wider by 121 mm. That solves one of the G-Class’ weakest points: interior space. Leg, shoulder, and elbow room increases for both front and rear passengers. Rear leg room increases the most by a whopping 150 mm. The most recognizable changes are on the inside. Whereas the previous-generation G-Class wasn’t quite up to date in terms of creature comforts, the 2019 model stands way ahead. You can option the dashboard to pack dual 12.3-inch screens. Both rows have standard heated seats, with massage and rapid-heating functions available as an option.
The G-Class retains a separate frame, selectable four-wheel-drive with low-range, and three way locking front, centre, and rear differentials. But also has been thoroughly modernized. The solid front-axle is gone in favour of a double-wishbone front suspension. This is sure to improve on-road handling, which will likely worry off-road purists. The same goes for the move to electromechanical rack-and-pinion steering over recirculating ball. Mercedes claims that off-road ability is actually greater with this generation. Maybe some of the credit goes to the “G-Mode” driving setting. The G-Class changes to “G-Mode” independently of the chosen driving mode as soon as one of the three differential locks has been activated or the low range off-road reduction gear has been engaged. This off-road mode adapts the adjustable damping of the chassis and the steering as well as the accelerator characteristic, avoids unnecessary gear shifts and thus ensures optimum control and maximum off-road capability.
Despite the bigger body, the new G-Class is much lighter, 170 kg lighter to be exact due to extensive use of high-strength steel and aluminium. The body is primarily made up of steel, and the fenders, hood and doors are made of aluminium. The vehicle is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4-liter V8. Output stands at 416bhp and 610Nm of maximum torque which goes through Merc’s nine-speed automatic rather than the old seven-speed unit.
“The new G-Class is setting the bar higher still in all relevant areas – in terms of performance both on and off the road as well as with regard to comfort and telematics. Our ‘longest-serving’ model series is therefore ideally equipped to continue its success story. In short, the new ‘G’ is still a ‘G’, only better”, stresses Ola Källenius, Member of the Board of Daimler AG responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.
Pricing for the G-Class will be announced closer to its market launch in late 2018.
