The reinvention of a motorsports icon
The new Mercedes-Benz G-Class goes on sale in top shape. This all-rounder convinces in any field of application – whether on road or off-road – with its power, modern assistance systems, outstanding driving properties and safety. On the other hand, the new suspension, the DYNAMIC SELECT driving programs, the "G-Mode" and the three differential locks with 100% locking action increase both comfort and agility on any terrain.
«The new G-Class raises the level of demands in all fields, both for its performance on the road and off-road as well as for its comfort and its telematics equipment. With this, our most 'veteran' model series is perfectly prepared to continue its success story. In short, the new 'G' is still a 'G', but better than ever," underlines Ola Källenius, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG responsible for Group Research and Development of Mercedes-Benz Cars.
The development project for the new G-Class has placed enormous demands on the development team. «Perfecting the technology of a vehicle as emblematic as the G-Class was a challenge and, at the same time, an opportunity. “Every component and every screw has had to go through the test bench,” explains Gunnar Güthenke, head of the Off-Road Vehicles product sector at Mercedes-Benz. "The objectives in the development of the body were to increase the rigidity of the vehicle and optimize the assembly points of the cross member frame with the running gear and the kinematic chain."
On the scheduled date for the market introduction of the G-Class, next June, the all-terrain vehicle will be available from a starting price of 127.450,00 euros (recommended retail price in Spain, taxes and transportation included) . The offer includes numerous new features such as LED headlights, driver assistance systems, a high-quality interior with leather seats and a new suspension. The most demanding customers can increase the exclusivity of the vehicle by choosing optional equipment such as the exclusive interior Plus with leather on the interior door trim.
Modern interpretation of the G-Class
The G-Class, Mercedes-Benz's luxury off-roader, is considered a design icon. Its exterior appearance has not undergone any essential modifications since 1979. Some emblematic elements of its design today assume the same function as in the first edition, and give the G-Class its unmistakable figure. For example, the new G-Class incorporates the striking door handle and produces the characteristic sound when closing it. The robust exterior protective strips, the position of the spare wheel in the rear door and the striking turn signals are also maintained. In combination with the angular silhouette, these outstanding details give the off-roader a distinctive look.
The evolved design of the G-Class is based on the philosophy of sensual clarity and preserves the character of the off-road archetype with the star intact. Among other details that are assumed in the new generation are the door hinges on the outside and the overlapping hood. The new restyling of the emblematic off-roader, with perfected technique and almost unchanged design over almost three decades, opens a new era from a technical and formal point of view. The new G-Class is 53 millimeters longer and 64 millimeters wider, which accentuates its presence on the asphalt or off compacted roads.
The new G-Class stands out more than ever for the formal unity of its design. All surfaces are now smoother and the surface finish of the materials has been perfected once again. The result is tighter, more precise joints between components, as well as more harmonious transitions. The wheel arches and bumper are better integrated than ever into the bodywork, without giving the impression of being superimposed elements.
Interior: a true icon
Unlike the exterior design, which remains faithful to the classic features of the original emblematic model, the cabin of the new G-Class follows a completely new conception, which takes on features from the exterior and interprets the vehicle's genes in an original way. Since its first edition, the G-Class combines the off-road character with high-quality luxury equipment in an exemplary symbiosis. The eye appreciates it immediately, and the touch confirms it: exclusively top quality materials are used inside. Each of its details is executed with maximum artisanal precision.
Once on board the G-Class, the occupant finds numerous design elements that recall the configuration of the exterior. The side ventilation diffusers, for example, reproduce the shape of the round headlights. And the shape of the speakers takes up the features of the emblematic turn signals. Typical features of the G-Class include the large grab handle in front of the passenger seat and the chrome switches for the three differential locks. These distinctive components, improved once again, are maintained in the new edition.
The instrument panel, tidy and completely renewed in character, includes clocks and analogue tubes of timeless design as standard. The new G-Class does not disappoint supporters of classic round gauges. As in the new E-Class and the new S-Class, it is possible to choose as an optional instrument panel a large-format display with virtual instruments in the driver's direct field of vision, as well as a central display above the center console . Both 12,3-inch displays are arranged behind a common glass cover and thus create a widescreen cockpit. The driver can determine the basic style of the indicators by choosing between the three options "Classic", "Sport" and "Progressive", and select the information and views that he considers relevant to his driving habits.
Thanks to haptic impulses and additional confirmation of operation via speakers, the driver can use the touch panel with controller without having to take his eyes off the road. Shortcut keys in front of the controller for frequently used functions and the optional control strip for driver assistance systems above the rotary light switch complete the command input options. The driver occupies a position close to the windshield and enjoys excellent omnidirectional vision behind the wheel.
More space for everyone
The driver and passenger are not the only ones who benefit from the increased dimensions of the G-Class. The advantages also extend to the occupants of the second row of seats.
The rear backrests can be folded together or in two separate sections, which is equivalent to 100, 60 or 40% of the total width. The seats of the G-Class are distinguished by their ergonomic shape, are equipped as standard with numerous comfort functions and provide more comfort and better lateral support. Added to this are, for example, the memory function for the driver's seat, seat heating at the front and rear and comfort headrests at the front. This comfort can be optionally increased with the active multicontour seating package. In addition to specific multi-contour seats, this package includes various massage functions, seat climate control and a quick-response seat heater. In addition, this version has electrically adjustable lumbar support for the driver and front passenger. Air chambers have been integrated into the lateral areas of the bench seat and backrest of the active multicontour seats that fill or empty progressively depending on the dynamic driving conditions, to provide greater lateral support to the driver and front passenger and to Retain them in position during dynamic driving or cornering. The front seats of the active multi-contour seating package are recommended by the German ergonomics association “Aktion Gesunder Rücken eV”.
Offroad: the legend surpasses itself
A priority objective of the development tasks was to redefine the vehicle's driving properties, both on-road and off-road. This objective has been achieved. The new G-Class can handle off-road driving more confidently than ever, and driving on the road is much more agile, dynamic and comfortable than the predecessor model. The off-road archetype retains its genuine character thanks to the standard cross member frame, three differential locks with 100% locking action and the LOW RANGE all-terrain ratio, among others.
The new running gear was born from the cooperation between the companies Mercedes-Benz G GmbH and Mercedes-AMG GmbH. The result is an independent suspension with a wishbone front axle in combination with a rigid rear axle. The engineers have focused on eliminating every unnecessary millimeter in the construction because, as is known, all-terrain capability requires, among other attributes, maximum ground clearance. The higher position of the axles makes a decisive contribution to achieving this goal and requires the mounting of a tower bar in the engine compartment in order to achieve structural rigidity objectives.
The articulated wishbone front axle components attach directly to the crossmember frame, without the need for an axle carrier. The coupling points in the Z direction of the lower transverse arm to the frame have been arranged as high as possible. This configuration guarantees good handling off paved roads. The engineers have chosen a new front axle construction for the G-Class. Its robust design allows it to achieve, and even partially surpass, the off-road capability of its illustrious predecessors.
Thanks to this design, the front axle gear of the G-Class has a ground clearance of 270 millimeters, a guarantee of forward capacity and driving pleasure off the asphalt.
The characteristic values speak for themselves:
or climbing capacity of up to 100%, as long as the floor has sufficient grip
o ground clearance between the axles 6 millimeters greater
(now 24,1cm)
o maximum wading depth of 70 cm in water and mud channels (i.e. 10 additional centimeters)
or stable with a lateral inclination of up to 35° (increase by 7°)
o angle of departure: 30°, angle of attack: 31° (1° more)
o ramp angle: 26° (1° more)
Thanks to the independent suspension of the front axle it has been possible to improve the rigidity of the front section of the body. A strut bar, acting as a bridge between the telescopic suspension struts, joins the front struts and increases the torsional rigidity of the cross member frame.
Unlike the predecessor, a new rigid rear axle is mounted with four longitudinal arms on each side and a Panhard bar. This construction increases comfort when traveling on the road at cruising speed. On unpaved terrain, a compression and rebound stroke of 82/142 millimeters at the rear and a ground clearance of 241 millimeters at the rear axle gear increase safety in extreme situations.
Dynamism on demand: "Comfort", "Sport", "Individual" or "Eco"
From now on, G-Class drivers can choose between several DYNAMIC SELECT driving programs. With the push of a button, this system allows different vehicle characteristics to be adjusted in fractions of a second, modifying the settings of the engine, transmission, running gear, steering and driving assistance systems according to the driver's preferences. driver. The driving programs "Comfort", "Sport", "Eco" and "Individual" are conveniently set using the DYNAMIC SELECT switch. In "Eco" mode, for example, it is possible to practice a particularly economical driving style, with low consumption. In "Sport" mode, on the other hand, the coupling points of the automatic transmission gears, the engine's reaction to the accelerator, the parameters of the steering with electric power assistance and the parameters of the exhaust butterfly are modified. By selecting the “Individual” program, the driver can personally combine his preferred settings.
In combination with the new optional suspension with adaptive damping regulation, DYNAMIC SELECT offers a particularly wide range of options. The DYNAMIC SELECT switch allows the driver to modify the vehicle's damping properties in "Sport" mode and "Comfort" mode.
In a simplified way, it can be said that the G-Class recognizes the condition of the road surface and adjusts the appropriate characteristic curve of the shock absorbers. Thus, for example, it assumes a tougher setting off the asphalt. In Sport mode, on the other hand, the G-Class reacts with more agility on the road.
With the new “G-Mode”, the vehicle makes its way cross-country
One of the requirements to be able to improve off-road driving properties is the new "G-Mode". Regardless of the driving program selected by the driver, the G-Class switches to “G-Mode” as soon as one of the three differential locks is activated or the LOW RANGE off-road transmission is engaged. This off-road mode adapts the adjustable damping of the suspension and steering as well as the throttle characteristic curve, inhibits unnecessary gear changes and thus ensures the best control and outstanding off-road suitability. In these situations, a discreet "G" icon shines on the instrument panel. The "G" easily compensates for uneven terrain, so that the driver can maneuver with centimeter precision, even on the steepest terrain, and receives clear confirmation through the steering of the wheels' grip capacity on the ground. land.
Agile, comfortable and safe on the road
The specifications for the development of the G-Class not only demanded solidity and superiority in off-road conditions, but also more dynamism and greater comfort on paved roads. The new mechanical conception of the front axle simultaneously improves the performance of the G-Class on the road. The driver handles his “G” vehicle on the asphalt with maximum agility and comfort, and with a clearly improved feeling behind the wheel. The off-roader maintains its course with stability within its lane, and moves with agility and ease off compacted roads.
Development engineers have used a digital prototype to simulate the service life of individual components and complete systems and identify places where lighter materials can be used. The weight loss diet has been successful, so that the G-Class weighs about 170 kilograms less than the predecessor model. The recipe is a new combination of materials made up of high-strength, ultra-resistant aluminum and steel, as well as improved production processes at the Austrian Magna Steyr plant. The rigid body now consists of different types of steel, while the fenders, hood and doors are made of aluminum.
In order to be able to retain the hinges and handles typical of the G-Class doors, the development managers have adapted these components to the new aluminum structure. The A and B uprights are made of high-strength steel, in accordance with their load-bearing functions. But the reduction in mass does not mean a decrease in stability. Quite the opposite: the torsional rigidity of the frame, body and body mounts has even increased by 55%, from 6.537 to 10.162 Nm/degree. Along with improvements in dynamism and comfort, this leads to an increase in acoustic quality, noticeable during driving due to a significantly lower level of noise and vibrations in the cabin.
powerful and efficient
In the new G 500 (combined fuel consumption: 12,1-11,5 l/100 km; CO emissions2 in the combined cycle: 276-263 g/km)1 A powerful 8-liter V4,0 gasoline engine works. The new biturbo group develops 310 kW (422 HP) and offers a maximum torque of 610 Nm between 2.000 and 4.750 rpm.
1 The indicated values have been determined according to the prescribed measurement procedure. These are NEDC CO values2 according to article 2, no. 1 of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. Fuel consumption has been calculated based on these values.
New automatic transmission on board
To transmit the engine's power to the wheels, the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with torque converter has been chosen, and it has been specifically adapted to the particularities of the off-road icon. Thanks to its own shift management software, AMG development engineers have quickened the response and shortened the duration of ratio changes in this 9-speed transmission. The wide gear ratio makes driving at low revs more comfortable and quieter and at the same time contributes to reducing fuel consumption.
As direct as possible, as indirect as necessary
The G-Class now features rack and pinion steering with electromechanical assistance as standard. This allows the implementation of advanced driving assistance systems such as parking assistance. At the same time, electromechanical steering requires less energy than a hydraulically assisted system. Depending on the chosen driving program, one of the three characteristic curves of the Comfort, Sport or Offroad steering is activated. The result is a comfortable or sporty driving sensation on the road, but also a precise and authentic confirmation on uneven or uncompacted surfaces, combined in both cases with adequate steering assistance. Address sizing can be described as follows: as direct as possible, as indirect as necessary.
Stronger than the passage of time
The G-Class is the top-of-the-range model among luxury off-road vehicles. It is not only the passenger car series with the longest production period in the history of Mercedes-Benz, but also the archetype of the SUV with the star. For this reason, all Mercedes off-road models have the capital G in their name.
This project, which began in 1972 as a cooperation contract between the former Daimler-Benz AG and Steyr-Daimler-Puch in the Austrian city of Graz, writes a history punctuated by superlatives and unforgettable milestones. It all starts with a concept completely different from everything known. The engineering team outlines a vehicle that is convincing in its off-road capability and, at the same time, a safe and fully functional car for leisure time. All-wheel drive and differential locks with 100% locking action have always been part of the “G” model, as has the robust cross member frame.
At the launch date in spring 1979, four engines were offered with a power range from 53 kW/72 hp to 115 kW/156 hp. Customers can choose between convertibles with a short wheelbase and a Station Wagon with a long or short wheelbase. With the vehicles of the 463 series, an evolution began in 1989, during which the off-road vehicle assimilated technical progress, but without being limited to it. At the same time, its circle of supporters grows successively and its character as an exclusive vehicle for any situation is accentuated. Since 1993, the project has had an official name: Class G.
An example of the G-Class known throughout the world is the “Popemobile”. The pearly white Mercedes-Benz 230 G all-terrain vehicle with special glass superstructure has accompanied Pope John Paul II on numerous trips since 1980.
On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the G-Class, a special model from Mercedes-AMG is launched on the market: the G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR. Its eight-cylinder power source (350 kW/476 hp, 700 Nm of torque) gives the robust all-terrain vehicle performance unknown in this segment and reveals the enormous potential contained in the G-Class.
The G 500 4×4² from 2015 adds a luxurious cabin, 45 centimeters more ground clearance and impressive road performance. Since that same year, designo manufaktur has offered customers the possibility of individually configuring their G-Class with exclusive equipment variants perfectly harmonized with each other.
The 650 Mercedes-Maybach G 2017 Landaulet represents a reinvention of the iconic vehicle. Equipped with an impressive V12 engine, portal axles, electrically operated textile top and exclusive equipment in the rear of the cabin, this exceptional all-terrain vehicle available in a limited edition of 99 units meets the expectations of the most demanding customers. It is the most exclusive way to enjoy open-air driving.
In summer 2017, the 300.000th model of the G-Class rolls off the production line in Graz, a Mercedes-Benz G 500 in designo Mauritius blue metallic with black leather-upholstered seats and topstitching in contrasting white. The anniversary vehicle, equipped with various optional equipment such as 16-inch black wheels with all-terrain tires and a robust roof rack, embarks on its journey through all types of routes in summer. Its equipment is the result of proposals from G-Class lovers from all over the world, who had contributed their ideas and specifications through the official G-Class Facebook page. Future trips and adventures can also be followed on social networks. of the 300.000th copy of a legend.
