Complete overhaul for luxury off-roader
Updated high-end SUV is more capable off road than ever and has a luxurious new interior On sale August Price from £140,000 (est)
THE MERCEDES-BENZ G-CLASS may have humble origins, but these days it’s more synonymous with the rich and famous than with serious off-roading.this new model has retained its fairly box-like exterior, albeit with new headlights and a more prominent front grille.
The most popular G-class in the UK is the performance-oriented Mercedesamg G63, and that’s the sole choice at launch. Power comes from a 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine developing 603bhp.a more frugal entry-level G350d model – powered by a 2.9-litre straight six diesel engine with 282bhp – will be offered from 2019.A ninespeed automatic gearbox is standard.
In terms of venturing off road, the new G-class will be able to tackle steeper inclines and wade through deeper rivers than the outgoing model.
But it’s inside the G-class where the biggest changes have been made.there’s now the same widescreen digital instrument cluster and infotainment display as in the latest E-class and S-class, although the system is optional on most models.
The G-class’s larger exterior dimensions mean there’s now more leg and head room throughout, but particularly leg room for rear passengers.the rear seats can split and fold away, too, to increase boot space. Exactly how much space you’ll have has yet to be announced, but it’s expected to be more than enough for most families and their luggage.
Because you’ll only be able to buy the range-topping G63 at launch, the G-class looks set to be an expensive option, with prices starting from around £140,000 – or £156,000 if you go for one of the limitedrun First Edition versions.the G350d, meanwhile, is likely to cost around £85,000 when it goes on sale.