This is the updated Mercedes G-Class: it became more powerful and received a "transparent" bonnet

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the updated G-Class SUV in the petrol versions of the G 500, AMG G 63 and the diesel G 450 d.

The changes in the exterior design of the G-Class can be called point changes. A new grille with four horizontal bars instead of the previous three, a different design of bumpers at the front and rear, rear view camera is now installed in the bumper in the middle above the licence plate holder. A washer nozzle is installed on the side of the camera in case of contamination during driving. It is switched on when the driver activates the rear window washer system.

The updated SUVs are equipped as standard with 18-inch aerodynamically optimised 18-inch twin-spoke light-alloy wheels and LED headlights. The bodywork palette is finished in a spectacular metallic blue shade as shown in the photo. As an option, new wheel discs with a diameter of 18 to 20 inches are also offered.

The Mercedes-AMG G 63 is characterised by radiator grilles with vertical slats and enlarged side air intakes in the bumper. This version of the SUV is equipped with adaptive LED headlights MULTIBEAM as standard.

The interior has additional illumination in the side ventilation nozzles, which repeat the shape of the headlights. Multifunctional steering wheel with a touchscreen control panel is covered with Nappa leather as standard. If desired, the interior of the new G-Class can be supplemented with advanced comfort features. Options include temperature-controlled cup holders, a wireless charging system for mobile devices and the MBUX rear-seat entertainment system. It includes two fully integrated 11.6-inch touchscreen displays.

For the first time, the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch driver's screen and multimedia touchscreen is fitted by default in all versions of the model. Smartphone integration is provided wirelessly via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. The navigation system of the updated SUV now also displays the current traffic light phase and thus informs the driver in case of limited visibility.

With an unlimited budget, future buyers of the G-Class can take advantage of the MANUFAKTUR customisation programme. This opens up exclusive combinations of colours, individual contrasts and interior materials.

As standard, the updated G-Class comes with a chassis with adaptive damping, which in previous models was only available as an option at an additional cost. Mercedes claims that the shock absorbers compensate even better for surface irregularities and can withstand significantly higher damping forces than passive dampers, with a ground clearance of at least 241 mm between the axles.

Thanks to roll and pitch stabilisation, the system continuously adjusts the degree of damping to the road situation and automatically reduces body roll. The various components of the adaptive adjustable shock absorbers are designed to cope with extreme loads, water immersion, rocks and mud flying from under the wheels. An electric parking brake is fitted as standard.

The Transparent Hood function is accessed via the off-road menu on the centre display. In conjunction with the 360-degree camera, it provides a virtual view under the front of the vehicle. To achieve this image, the electronics combine images from the front camera and the two exterior mirror cameras. The function helps to assess ridges, gradients and depressions in advance if they cannot be seen through the windscreen because the angle is too steep.

The G-Class engine line-up is fully electrified: as a mild hybrid with integrated starter-generator and 48-volt electrical system, they are designed to deliver increased performance with reduced fuel consumption. In addition to the "charged" Mercedes-AMG G 63, a petrol G 500 (G 550 in the US version) and a diesel G 450 d are available.

The G 500 will use a 3.0-litre six-cylinder inline six-cylinder engine with dual supercharging via an exhaust gas turbocharger and an optional electric compressor. The 449bhp petrol engine delivers a maximum torque of 560Nm. A starter generator briefly provides an additional 20 hp of power and 200 Nm of torque.

The six-cylinder diesel engine in the G 450 d version produces 367 hp. The torque is 750 Nm. There is also a starter-generator, which briefly provides an additional 20 hp and 200 Nm.

Power transmission is provided by the 9G-TRONIC torque converter automatic transmission. A variety of additional auxiliary systems, such as the active steering assistant, are new.

The time-proven 4.0-litre biturbo V8 engine is used in the new Mercedes-AMG G 63. It produces 585bhp and delivers a maximum torque of 850Nm. What is new is the combination of 48-volt technology and an integrated starter generator. This electrification briefly provides an additional 20 hp and 200 Nm. Such a Mercedes-AMG G 63 needs only 4.4 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. The top speed is limited at 220 km/h. However, with the optional AMG Performance package, 240 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds are possible.

The first all-electric G-Class will join the Mercedes-Benz range at a later date and will be sold in parallel with versions equipped with internal combustion engines.

Exact dates for the availability of the updated Geländewagen have not yet been announced. In Germany, prices for the SUV will start at 122,808 euros.

Source: Mercedes-Benz