Model celebrating 40 years of existence, the fourth generation of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has just been officially presented at the Detroit Motor Show, confirming, now through data released by the brand itself, practically all the information already known. It reaches us in June.
Touted as one of the biggest novelties in what is the first great salon of 2018, the new G-Class, code-named W464, bets on a merely retouched look, trying not to lose the spirit of the original model. Something also confirmed by the maintenance of the chassis with side members, guaranteeing from the outset, an increase in the external dimensions – 53 mm in length and 121 mm in width.
In terms of aesthetics, the main innovations are the redesigned front bumper, contributing to better aerodynamics, as well as a new bonnet, designed in the same direction. With the set maintaining the already traditional front grille and round optics, although both are updated, as well as details such as the metallic line along the side or the spare tire on the rear door.
G-class with more space in the rear
There are also new features in the interior, where, in addition to a new steering wheel, new applications in metal and new finishes in wood or carbon fibre, there is, above all, an increase in habitability. And, in particular in the rear seats, where occupants have 150 mm more legroom, 27 mm more at shoulder level and 56 mm more at elbow level. Numbers that are also a guarantee of greater comfort, when added to the announced evolution in terms of combating noise, vibration and harshness, as well as equipment such as seats with heating, ventilation and massage function.
Moreover, speaking of equipment, a mandatory highlight is the fact that the new G-Class is now proposed not only with an analogue instrument panel, but also with the fully digital solution, with two screens, with around 12.3 inches (covers about a 1/3 of the front of the dashboard), already known from other models of the manufacturer. This is joined by a new seven-speaker sound system or, as an option, an even more advanced 16-speaker Burmester Surround system; a set of adjustable Active Multicontour front seats, including in the side cushions; or even the Exclusive Interior Plus package, with Nappa leather coverings for the dashboard, doors and center console.
More luxurious, but also more competent
On the other hand, although more luxurious than its predecessors, the new G-Class also promises to be even more competent on off-road, from the outset with the presence of three 100% self-locking differentials, as well as a new front axle and suspension independent front. The rear axle is also new, with Mercedes ensuring that, among other attributes, it helps to endow the model with “a more stable and robust behavior”.
Also benefiting from the offroad behaviour, improved attack and exit angles, to 31º and 30º, respectively, as well as the ability to pass through rivers and streams, in this new generation possible with water up to 70 cm. This, in addition to a 26º ventral angle and a ground clearance of 241 mm, both better than the previous generation.
Also present is a new transfer box, as well as a new G-Mode driving mode system, with the Comfort, Sport, Individual and Eco options, which can change the throttle response, steering and suspension. Arguments to which it is also possible to add, for better performance on the road, an AMG suspension, plus the reduction in empty weight, by 170 kg, as a result of the use of lighter materials, such as aluminium.
100% electric variant is hypothesis
Finally, as far as engines are concerned, it is now confirmed that the new G-Class will be launched with a 4.0 liter twin-turbo V8, delivering something like 421 hp and 609 Nm of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and — naturally — to a permanent integral transmission. When unveiling the SUV, Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche said, when asked by a very special guest, actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, about the possibility that the model could have a 100% electric version: “Keep it be attentive!”.
The new G-Class should start marketing in the US in the second half of 2018, with prices still to be announced, while in Europe, and namely in Germany, it should be available from June, with an entry price of 107,040 euros.
