The all-new Mercedes-Benz G-Class continues the success story of the model series that was established in 1979. The off-road icon continues to rely on tried-and-tested ladder-frame construction, three mechanical differential locks and LOW RANGE off-road reduction as well as a rigid rear axle and independent front suspension.
The redesigned off-road control unit, the new OFFROAD COCKPIT and the “transparent bonnet” enable a digital off-road experience.
Thanks to electrification, the new models offer improved responsiveness off-road and greater comfort on paved roads. The mild hybrids with an integrated starter-generator (ISG) and a 48-volt on-board electrical system also impress with increased performance and reduced fuel consumption.
With the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system and 31.2-centimetre (12.3-inch) driver and media displays with touch control, the new G-Class is more connected than ever.
A host of advanced safety and assistance systems support drivers.
The MANUFAKTUR range for extensive customisation of both exterior and interior has been expanded once again.
Subtly modified exterior with new radiator grille featuring four instead of the previous three horizontal louvres and redesigned bumpers both front and rear.
New A-pillar cladding, a spoiler lip on the roof edge and new insulation materials contribute to improved aerodynamics and increased acoustic comfort.
The engine portfolio for the all-new G-Class is fully electrified. As mild hybrids with integrated starter-generators (ISG) and 48-volt on-board electrical systems, they offer increased performance with reduced fuel consumption. Thanks to electrification, the new models also offer improved response and greater comfort. Further models in addition to the new Mercedes-AMG G 63 (combined energy consumption: 15.7–14.7 l/100 km | combined CO₂ emissions: 358–335 g/km | CO₂ class: G)1 are the all-new Mercedes-Benz G 500 (combined energy consumption: 12.3–10.9 l/100 km | combined CO₂ emissions: 281–248 g/km; CO₂ class: G)1 and the all-new Mercedes-Benz G 450 d (combined energy consumption: 10.0–8.7 l/100 km | combined CO₂ emissions: 261–227 g/km | CO₂ class: G)[1].
The all-new Mercedes-Benz G 500 is powered by a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with twin turbocharging via an exhaust-gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor. The petrol engine produces 330 kW (449 hp) and provides a maximum torque of 560 Nm. The ISG briefly delivers an additional 15 kW (20 hp) of output and 200 Nm of torque. It also feeds the 48-volt on-board electrical system. The range of engines is rounded off by the six-cylinder diesel in the all-new Mercedes-Benz G 450 d. The unit delivers 270 kW (+15 kW) (367 hp + 20 hp). The torque is 750 (+200) Nm.
Power transmission is provided by the 9G-TRONIC torque-converter automatic transmission, which is specially adapted to the requirements of the off-road icon. The wide spread of the transmission makes driving comfortable and quiet, especially at low engine speeds. At the same time it helps reduce fuel consumption. The mechanics and the hydraulic control unit ensure fast, smooth and comfortable gear changes. They also enable rapid intermediate spurts of acceleration. Three speed sensors allow for what is known as skip shifting, in which – depending on the driving situation – several gears are skipped. The shift behaviour depends on the selected driving programme. As is usual with Mercedes-Benz automatic transmissions, drivers can also change gears manually using the DIRECT SELECT shift paddles on the steering wheel.
In the ECO driving programme, for example, the ECO start/stop function aids economical driving by switching off the engine when the vehicle is stationary. The coasting function also helps to save fuel. The transmission clutch opens as soon as the driver takes their foot off the accelerator pedal. As a result, engine speed drops to idle, and driving resistance reduced by the engine’s compression and friction forces in trailing throttle. The all-new G-Class then “coasts” and briefly utilises its own kinetic energy for propulsion. Traction is restored as soon as the accelerator or brake pedal is depressed again.
The transfer case is configured so that 40 percent of the drive torque is transferred to the front axle and 60 percent to the rear axle. The permanent all-wheel drive ensures excellent traction. The off-road gear reduction significantly increases the torque on the driven wheels when travelling off-road. At the same time, it reduces top speed and increases traction. This enables the all-new G-Class to master even very difficult terrain. The off-road reduction can be engaged in the “N” transmission mode via the LOW RANGE switch up to a speed of 40 km/h. The ratio of the transfer case then changes from 1.00 in the HIGH RANGE road-driving setting to 2.93. It is possible to change from LOW RANGE to HIGH RANGE up to 70 km/h.
The intelligent multi-plate clutch ensures enduring manoeuvrability. It behaves like an automatically controlled limited slip differential and regulates the vehicle’s behaviour while driving. It switches to a fixed lock with 100% locking effect when the switch for the centre differential lock is actuated.
The locks on the front and rear differentials are designed as normal differential locks with 100% locking effect. They operate purely electromechanically and are fully networked. All locks can be engaged individually while driving in both LOW RANGE and HIGH RANGE. The vehicle automatically switches to the “Rock” off-road driving programme when the locks are engaged. The switches for the three differential locks allow drivers to recognise which of the locks is activated at any time. The status is also shown in the media display.
