Leaked Photos of 2019 G-Class Interior
Leaked photos have emerged online showing the upcoming 2019 G-Class interior. The new model will debut at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show in January, but pictures released by Mercedes to the press have given an insight into how the automaker will update the iconic vehicle.
The G-Wagen started life as a military 4×4 vehicle, with a simple ladder frame chassis and boxy body. It would later become popular in the civilian market, and then adopted as a premium luxury SUV by the rich and famous. Over 300,000 models have been sold since it’s inception. The G-Class is well-loved and so it has remained relatively unchanged since it’s launch in 1979. After all, trying to update or improve on an icon is a formidable task, even for Mercedes-Benz.
However, with safety and technology improvements over the past decade, Mercedes has put it off the redesign as long as possible. And looking at the images, it seems that Mercedes has definitely risen to the occasion. The designers have managed to maintain the same classic shape of the dashboard, using a simplistic, retro style. At the same time, they’ve also incorporated modern car tech like the digital dash that was first introduced on the W222 S-Class.
The system comprises of two 12 inch screens, one that shows vehicle related data and works as an instrument cluster and the other serves as the infotainment system. The 2 screens are covered by a seamless piece of glass, taking a rather Apple like approach to industrial design. Drivers can choose from 3 different display modes: “Classic”, “Sport” and “Progressive” – all featuring different information and views. The new dash has fewer buttons than the outgoing model.
Pictures show the infotainment system to have Apple AirPlay and Android Auto capabilities. The G-Wagen will also come with inductive, wire free phone charging. Both front seats have a clip for attaching tablet devices to. The base spec sound system has seven speakers, with the option to upgrade to 16 Burmester speakers and a near 600 watt amp.
As another hat tip to the original G Class dash, the large passenger side grab handle remains. A number of the switchgear components and fixtures appear to be borrowed from other Daimler models, such as the E-Class sea monster mouth like air vents and the rotary control dial. The 2019 model will have a 9 speed automatic transmission, with permanent all wheel drive.
Positioned down low on the centre console, sits a battery of chrome off-road and terrain control buttons. Here the driver can operate the electronic differential locks. The chunky steering wheel is bedecked with entertainment system and active cruise control buttons as well as contrasting brushed aluminium trim pieces.
Mercedes have improved driver comfort with the new model too, with a much needed extra 1.5 inches of legroom for front passengers and 2.67 inches of increased elbow room.
Commercial and Military Mercedes G Wagen users need not worry either, all this technology may well be optional. A Mercedes-Benz insider said that a stripped out, basic interior could also be on the cards.
“It’s not like the Professional car today. There are thoughts to do so, to go more basic. It’s there in terms of the architecture,” a Mercedes-Benz insider said. “There is also the possibility to do a pickup version. Not for the first generation, though.”
From the leaked images, we like the direction that Mercedes have taken when redesigning this venerable and much respected off-roader. They’ve managed to incorporate the technology in a sympathetic way, updating the styling whilst still keeping a sense of the original vehicle.
The new G Class will be revealed in January 2018 at the Detroit Auto Show, we cannot wait to see the whole package!
