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New Mercedes G-Class revealed: Here's all you need to know about the legendary SUV reborn

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<i>Image: Newspress</i>
<i>Image: Newspress</i>

Detroit - Mercedes-Benz heads into 2018 with the relaunch of a classic SUV - the new G-Class.

The new G-Class makes its debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

Off-road legend

According to Mercedes-Benz: "The off-road legend will undergo the biggest makeover in its history while at the same time remaining true to itself. 

"Whether on- or off-road, the all-terrain vehicle impresses under all conditions with its performance, state-of-the-art assistance systems for safety and comfort, superb handling and a reinterpretation of its iconic design."

Full details below the video reveal.

GALLERY: 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Watch the reveal as it happened:

Image: Newspress

An icon reinvented

Ola Källenius, member of the board of Daimler AG, said: "The new G-Class is setting the bar higher still in all relevant areas – in terms of performance both on and off the road as well as with regard to comfort and telematics. Our ‘longest-serving’ model series is therefore ideally equipped to continue its success story. In short, the new ‘G’ is still a ‘G’, only better." 

The new G-Class benifits from a number of new features such as LEDs, driving assistance systems, a high-quality interior with leather seats, and new suspension. It will be available with optional Exclusive Interior Plus with leather on the interior door panels provides even more exclusivity.

Image: Newspress

The G-Class - reinterpreted for today

The G-Class, the luxury off-road vehicle from Mercedes-Benz, has long been considered a design icon; its external appearance has not changed significantly since 1979. 

The new G-Class is 53mm longer and 121mm wider.


What do you think of the new G-Class? Email us

GALLERY: 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Image: Newspress

Power 

In the new G500 a high-performance 4.0-litre V8 petrol propels the new SUV. The new biturbo produces an output of 310kW and a maximum torque of 610Nm. Fuel consumption is rated at 11.1 litres/100km with emissions of 263g/km. 

The automaker's 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, with torque converter, was specifically adapted to meet the needs of the off-roader. The wide transmission ratio not only makes driving quieter and more comfortable especially at low engine speeds, it simultaneously also contributes to reducing fuel consumption.


It's the forefather of all SUVs to bear the three-pointed star - we reflect on the history of the G-Class



As standard the G-Class is now fitted with electromechanical rack-and-pinion steering, which now allows driving assistance systems such as Parking Assist to be implemented. In addition, the electromechanical steering uses less energy than a hydraulically assisted steering system. Depending on the driving mode, one of three sets of steering characteristic lines, namely Comfort, Sport and Off-road, comes into effect.

Image: Newspress

Off-road figures:

Slope climbing ability of up to 100% on suitable surfaces
Ground clearance between axles - plus 6mm, now 24.1cm
Maximum fording depth now 70cm (an additional 10cm)
Stable at tilt angles of 35°, plus 7°
Angle of departure: 30°, angle of approach: 31°, plus 1°
Break-over angle: 26°, plus 1°

Due to the independent suspension, it was possible to improve the rigidity of the body front end. A strut tower brace, also known as a suspension bridge, now connects the front strut towers, which increases the torsional rigidity of the ladder-type frame.

At the rear, in contrast to the predecessor, the new rigid axle is controlled by four trailing arms on each side and a Panhard rod. This makes normal driving on the road even more comfortable. In rough terrain, the rear spring jounce of 82mm and rebound of 142mm plus the ground clearance of 241 mm to the rear axle gear help to ensure a safe ride even in extreme situations.

Image: Newspress

The new 'G-Mode'

One of the prerequisites for the improved off-road handling characteristics is the new G-Mode. The G-Class changes to “G-Mode” independently of the chosen driving mode as soon as one of the three differential locks has been activated or low-range has been engaged.

This off-road mode adapts the adjustable damping of the chassis and the steering as well as the accelerator characteristic, avoids unnecessary gear shifts and thus ensures optimum control and maximum off-road capability. A small “G” icon discreetly lights up in the instrument cluster. 

Driving modes

Dynamic select is now available with up to five driving modes for the G-Class; the four on-road programs are Comfort, Sport, Eco and Individual with G-mode completing the selection. 

Image: Newspress

Improved interior


While the exterior maintains the iconic classic look, the interior of the G-Class has undergone a fundamental modern redesign.

Hallmarks of the G-Class include the grab handle in front of the front passenger and the chrome-highlighted switches for the three differential locks. 

Fans of classic round instruments will not be disappointed in the new G-Class. As in the new E-Class and S-Class, an instrument cluster in the form of a large display showing virtual instruments is available as an option. In this case the two 12.3" displays blend visually into a Widescreen Cockpit beneath a shared glass cover. Drivers can choose between three different styles for the displays – “Classic”, “Sport” and “Progressive” – and also select relevant information and views according to their individual needs.



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