The new G-Class has been introduced by Mercedes-Benz India, with prices beginning at Rs 2.55 crore (ex-showroom). Only the G400d version of the SUV is offered, which means that the SUV has a diesel engine. The German automaker has kept the booking amount at Rs 1.5 lakh and stated that deliveries will begin in the fourth quarter of 2023. The SUV has been launched in two distinct cosmetic lines - the ‘AMG’ line and a new India-specific ‘Adventure’ line.
On the design front, there has been no change from the previous models. Along with its circular LED headlights and iconic rectangular taillights perched just above the rear bumper, the new G-class retains its high stance and squarish proportions.
The exterior specifications of the AMG Line are fairly straightforward. However, in the Adventure variant, you get a roof rack, a full-size spare tyre on the tailgate, and four new exterior colours out of a total of 25 that are only available for the variant.
The Adventure Edition comes with 5-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels painted in silver, while the AMG Line comes standard with 20-inch alloy wheels. Therefore, it is true that the Adventure Edition's appearance and customizations make it better suited for an outdoorsy lifestyle, whereas the AMG Line will look at home or rather dominate in urban settings. That doesn't, however, imply that the AMG Line is any less adept at off-road driving. A ground clearance of 241mm and a water-wading capacity of 700mm cement the capabilities of this off-roader.
The G-Class's interior design remains the same, but the AMG Line model has an ‘Exclusive Line Interior Package’ that includes features like a Burmester surround sound system, sliding sunroof, and ambient lighting, as well as Nappa leather for the upholstery and a silver chrome shade for the air vents. However, the Adventure Edition receives the same interior treatment as the standard model and only adds a steering wheel covered in Nappa leather.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class finally has the famed diesel engine on offer. The 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder diesel engine that is currently available in models like the GLS in India is used in the G 400d. The engine produces 326bhp and 700Nm, which is an increase from the older 350d's 282bhp and 600Nm, and it is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. With three locking differentials and a low range, Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive system distributes power to all four wheels. According to Mercedes, the G 400d also comes with a special G Mode for off-road driving. When one of the three differential locks is engaged or the low range is engaged, the G 400 d switches to this mode independently of any of the selected drive programmes. The G Mode modifies the chassis damping, steering, and accelerator characteristics, avoiding unnecessary gearshifts and ensuring maximum off-road capability.
The price of both variants is identical at Rs 2.55 crore (ex-showroom), allowing customers to select the G-Wagon that best suits their individual lifestyle. Expect deliveries to begin in the fourth quarter of this year. The G-Class competes against the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 and the Land Rover Defender.