Words by Ken Pearson The new G-Class has been unveiled! Following an extensive testing campaign, the thoroughly refreshed model is ready to take on the toughest roads and tracks that Hertfordshire can throw at it. The changes have been extensive enough that the model even gains a new chassis code and is known as the W465. So then, what's new? Well, at first glance it may look like not a lot has changed and to a point that's right - a lot of effort has gone into making the new G-Class look like the old one. The G is one model that will never stray too far from its original design, even if it will be modernised every few years. The car retains the rounded square shape of the glass, the nearly flat bodywork and the proudly raised bonnet along with the fabulous MULTIBEAM headlights with their round running lights and separate indicators. The devil is in the detail with the exterior design though as the changes that have been made are extremely subtle. For the AMG Line Premium Plus models, the grille now features four horizontal bars as opposed to three. This brings it in line with the GLB and GLS. There is also a new air vent in the bumper which is larger than before - the G 63 gets three upright strakes here. Above the windscreen, there is a new spoiler which has been taken from the upcoming electric variant which improves airflow over the body. Improving efficiency has been a key part of the facelift and as such, the three engine variants all feature a mild hybrid system. The G 450 d uses the 3.0 litre 6-cylinder engine with 367 horsepower and 750 nm torque on tap. A new addition to the UK model range is the 6-cylinder petrol-powered G 500 that can turn out 449 hp and 560 nm. Between the engine and the 9-speed automatic transmission is the mild hybrid electric motor which can compliment the powertrain with another 20 hp and 200 nm to boost acceleration and efficiency; in the ECO driving mode, this allows the car to coast with the engine off in order to save fuel. As before, the range topper is the G 63 which has the same headline power output of 585 hp and 850 nm as the old model, but thanks to the performance boost from the mild hybrid, it can now reach 62 mph in just 4.4 seconds. Externally, the differences are slight but inside they really move the game on. At long last, the G-Wagen gets MBUX! The widescreen cockpit layout with two 12.3" screens remains but it now runs the latest version of the touchscreen infotainment. Intelligent navigation, media and comfort settings like the ambient light and optional massage programmes can be found here using the touchscreen itself, the steering wheel-mounted controls, the intelligent voice assistant or the central touchpad and shortcut buttons on the centre console. The physical controls for the differential locks remain on the dashboard but are now joined by quick-selects for manual shifting, low-range gearing and the Offroad Cockpit display which presents key information like inclination, tyre pressures, co-ordinates, an artificial horizon, the status of the differential locks and more. Equipment has been enhanced with keyless entry available for the first time; the door handles have been re-engineered to accommodate the sensors without losing their classic design. The 360o camera system is included as standard on all models and features washer jets for the front and rear to allow for quick cleaning of the lenses. This comes in conjunction with the Transparent Bonnet feature that allows the driver to see what is being driven over when off-roading. A tow bar is standard for all UK-bound models and the G 63 gets the new AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension which includes active hydraulics that can very quickly adjust each corner for improved traction and stability, on or off-road. Unfortunately, the analogue clock that used to feature proudly on the dashboard has been discontinued for the new G-Wagen. The G 450 d and G 500 are available in AMG Line Premium Plus specification only; this includes nappa leather upholstery, MULTIBEAM LED lights, 20" AMG wheels, the Driving Assistance Package, front dashcam, augmented reality navigation, running boards, the sliding sunroof and much more as standard. Optionally available is the MANUFAKTUR Schöckl Design Package which adds decorative trims with the co-ordinates and mapping of the Schöckl proving ground that every G-Wagen is tested on before being delivered. Crowning the G-Class model range is the Mercedes-AMG G 63 which is available in four flavours:
AMG G 63
AMG G 63 Carbon Edition
AMG G 63 MANUFAKTUR Edition
AMG G 63 Magno Edition
On top of the AMG Line versions, they all gain AMG body styling with the AMG crest on the bonnet and part of the puddle light projectors, 22" wheels in two designs, the AMG fuel cap and the new generation steering wheel with touch-control buttons for quick-selecting driving modes and more. All UK-bound models get the AMG Driver's Package which raises the speed limiter from 136 mph to 149 mph. The Carbon Edition adds carbon fibre trim to the exterior and interior of the model. The grille gets dark chrome fins while the mirror caps, interior trim, steering wheel, bumper inserts, spare wheel cover and rear guard are all finished in carbon fibre. The MANUFAKTUR Edition includes a selection of MANUFAKTUR paints that would usually cost £4,000 along with the Superior Line interior. This adds the active multicontour massaging seats with diamond stitching and nappa leather absolutely everywhere in the cabin. The instrument panel, door centre panels, armrests, pull handles, kneepads, glovebox lid and the dashboard-mounted grab handle are all clad in leather. The icing on the cake is the door buttons that feature the letter G. Top of the range is the Magno Edition which adds magno paint and the AMG Night Package II to the mix. This darkens the model badging, grille, and even the Mercedes-Benz star. The spare wheel holder and underguard are painted in matte black, along with the side steps. There are a few standalone options including the Night Package which can be specified on AMG Line, AMG 63 and MANUFAKTUR Edition models. The Extended Night Package can be optioned which paints the bumpers, wheel arches, running boards and roof in magno black. Both Night Package options can be specified with either metallic black or magno matte black trim.The Rear Seat Entertainment Package can be added to all models. This sees two 10" high definition screens mounted to the front seats with internet connectivity and multiple input methods to allow rear passengers to enjoy movies and programs when on the move. This is always a highly sought after feature for both new and used models.The new generation G-Class modernises the iconic SUV while maintaining its classic style and exemplary performance both on and off road. It looks as imposing as before, but I am absolutely sure that the W465 model will be as approachable and luxurious to drive as its predecessor - and smoother thanks to the introduction of the mild hybrid drivetrains.The new G-Class is available to order now! Prices begin at £136,690 for a G 450 d AMG Line Premium Plus with the G 500 starting at £146,095. The high-performance Mercedes-AMG G 63 is available from £184,595. Production for the UK market begins soon and we can expect the first examples of the new model to arrive in the autumn. There's more to come very soon with the electric G-Class set to be announced in the coming weeks. Until then, if you'd like more information or to place an order for your perfect new G-Class, fill in an enquiry form and we'll get in touch.
