In what is definitely the “Rebirth of a legend”, the new Mercedes Benz G-Class has bowed officially at the Detroit Auto Show.
The design of the G-Class has not changed much since introduction in 1979 and the all-new model hasn’t messed around changing the iconic design. You would have to study the new model closer to see the design cues. The more rounded front grille retains the 3 star emblem, whilst the LED headlamps now house the LED daytime lights within. The bumper still has cooling intakes but these are now neatly integrated with the bumper, which in itself connects to the front wheel arches instead of floating on the previous model. The bonnet design is retained from the original design and so are the bonnet-mounted indicators.
The new G-Class is longer and wider than before but the side look is not too different. Rounded door corner edges, integrated side steps, new mirror housing, old door hinges and wheel designs in varying sizes give the new G-Class class whilst not straying far from the old iconic look. The rear retains the door mounted spare tyre, lower mounted lights now with LED technology.
The interior sees the biggest change for the G-Class with the new model coming of age in both practical layout, quality finish and technology with the passenger grab handle being the only link to the previous model. The comfortable interior is roomier for all passengers, allows easy access and exit to the cabin. The dash gets two 12.3-inch displays into a Widescreen Cockpit beneath a shared glass cover (similar to the latest sedans from Mercedes). Analogue displays are available for lower spec models. Turbine shaped air vents, multimedia control touchpad, multi-function steering wheel, comfort leather seats all round ensure driver and passenger comfort is the best ever in a G-Class model.
Rear seats in particular have received added attention with more space and comfort dialed in. All round visibility has been enhanced with bigger glass house whilst the Burmeister sound is also available as an option. In addition to more luggage space, the rear seats can be folder for additional space when needed.
The new G 500 comes with a 310kW/610Nm 4.0-litre Bi Turbo V8 engine mated to a 9-speed 9G-Tronic transmission. Off road dynamics have been enhanced however Mercedes promises the biggest change in on road dynamic with mentions of the word “Agility” being used more often. The up to 170kg weigh loss helps not only in agility but also efficiency. On the road comfort is claimed to be amongst the best in class with cabin noise reduced markedly according to claims. DYNAMIC SELECT is now available with up to five driving modes (Comfort, Sport, Eco, Individual and G Mode) for the G‑Class. G-mode comes on if one or the 3 independent diff locks are activated or if Low Range is selected for maximum off road capability.
True to Mercedes products, the G-Class will also feature a suite of driver assistance and safety systems for maximum passenger safety and to prevent accidents.
The G-Class is a definite for Mzansi with more models set to appear in 2018 including an AMG model – G63 – with that characterful V8 sound from the side exit exhausts. Kwashuba.