Evergreen Mercedes G-Class gets another makeover

BERLIN: The seemingly endless story of the Mercedes G-Class continues, with news that the Stuttgart maker will not be phasing out the chunky G-wagon any time soon after all. Instead it is being given a significant revamp.

The combustion-engined G-Class is the third oldest badge in the current Mercedes range, after the SL and S-Class, and has been in production in various guises since 1979.

Following media reports that Mercedes-Benz was discontinuing production of the petrol-powered G-Class, the Stuttgart maker last month rejected the claims.

"This information is not true in any respect. On the contrary - we will make our icon even more attractive for our customers in 2024 with a model update," said Mercedes.

An all-electric "Baby-G" or EQG is waiting in the wings but the exiting G gets a restyle in order to improve the aerodynamics of the rugged, upright model. The engine portfolio has also been revised.

Wider wheel-arches along with a slightly re-jigged front grille also set the new version apart. Inside there is a new dashboard design and updated steering wheel.

The revamp will not be presented officially until early next year but the Stuttgart maker has given the media a sneak preview.

The G-Class will square up against off-road rivals such as the Land Rover Defender, Range Rover, Audi RS Q8, Aston Martin DBX, and the ultra-luxurious Bentley Bentayga.

The mighty AMG eight-cylinder with new mild-hybrid technology remains in the line-up although the V8 motor fitted to the G 500 is being jettisoned in favour of an in-line six-cylinder also designed with 48-volt drive.

The diesel version will also be equipped with a starter generator and should become somewhat more economical to run as a result.

The range-topping G63 gets so-called "Active Ride Control" which allows the suspension to be adjusted individually for each wheel via a hydraulic system.

On the road, this feature virtually cancels out body roll in fast curves and the system further improves traction off-road.