New G-Class Driven Before Detroit Debut
Mercedes are replacing the G-Wagen after 38 years of continuous production and more than 300,000 vehicles sold. The company will reveal the all new W464 model at the Detroit Auto Show, on January 15th, 2018. On an Austrian mountain, used by Mercedes to test it’s 4×4 vehicles, a handful of fortunate motoring journalists had a chance to ride in the second generation G-Class. Here’s a recap of their findings.
The new G Class off-road improvements
The new G Class appears to be even better off-road than the outgoing model. Under the body, engineers have replaced the front solid axle, from the outgoing model, with double wishbone independent suspension. At the rear, an updated solid axle remains, but this time, with a 5 link geometry set-up. The frame is 34% stiffer and the body boasts a 50% rigidity improvement. Though the media group only drove the truck off-road, it will no doubt handle better on the tarmac too!
Mercedes have dramatically increased the G-Wagens off-roading capabilities, with an increased wading depth of 27.6″. The track is now 4.4 inches wider, which should help stabilise the truck. The engineering team have improved the breakover, approach and departure angles by 1 degree. Side slopes of 35 degrees can now be safely traversed. Even the suspension has more travel for increased shock absorption and driver comfort. The ride is now composed, even over rough terrain at high speeds, journalists remarked. Body roll is kept at a minimum even with a higher ground clearance of 9.5 inches.
Further off-road improvements include a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed transmission for ultimate rough terrain control and an all new transfer case set to a 40/60 front/rear split. The development team improved the ground clearance by placing the front differential higher and moving the fuel tank forward of the rear axle. The powertrain sits higher too, offering better underbody protection.
Other Changes
The previous G Wagen required a lot of steering input from the driver, due to the swivel housing steering arrangement, this is now reportedly no longer the case. A handy new feature, the front facing camera, overlays outlines of the cars width and clearly shows upcoming terrain on the dashboard display. The camera has a 360 degree option and is useful when off-roading or just parking at the mall. The dashboard screen clearly shows rough terrain or surrounding cars, along with direction of travel making off-road navigation easier.
Tying all of these off-road enhancements together is a new driving assist, called G-Mode. The system kicks in automatically, when the driver selects low range or locks a diff. G-Mode optimises and monitors the steering, adjustable dampers, throttle response and shift points, adjusting them for the current conditions.
The off-roading capabilities of the new G-Class have been proven on the “Schöckl”, the companies merciless mountain testing ground. The new model drove 1250 miles over boulders, up 60% gradients and jaw-dropping side slopes. It is truly a proper 4×4.
On-road Improvements
Whilst the new G-Class is a trail destroyer, engineers have improved it’s on-road manners. The kerb weight is lower, helping to improve fuel efficiency and the independent front suspension handles corners more dynamically. The revised G-Class boasts improved crash protection and a more modern electric rack and pinion steering system. All together, the G Wagen is no longer a compromised on-roader, but a jack of all trades truck. Apparently, Mercedes have also included self-parking and semi-autonomous driving assists. Larger disc brakes, fitted all around, will help the 4×4 stop quicker.
All new G-Class Interior
Designers brought the interiors up to date, with a modern, clean dashboard, and large displays. Mercedes kept the popular passenger grab handle on the dash, but included E Class air vents and a redesigned centre console. Front passengers now have increased leg and elbow room, whilst rear occupants enjoy a 6 inch leg room increase. Rear seats are reclining and heated. The steering wheel features a range of controls and passengers will benefit from the optional 16 speaker Burmester surround sound system.
The G Class Formula stays the same
The new model shares only 5 parts with it’s predecessor. The G Class still sits on a rugged, traditional ladder frame. The second generation model retains a low range transfer box for improved traction and engine braking on hills. The transmission still has three differential lockers for improved grip on loose surfaces.
The body remains sympathetic to the styling of the original G-Wagen. The body is still boxy and square, but with softer edges and subtle curves. Fans will be glad to see that the new model is still recognisable as a G-Class. Weight is reduced thanks to the new aluminium body, contributing to an overall weight reduction of 350 lbs.
Will the old model stay in production?
There are rumours circulating that the current W463 model may remain in production. Military organisations and emergency services worldwide use the G-Class. Perhaps Mercedes will opt to keep producing the current vehicle to fulfil the needs of their utility customers. Magna-Steyr currently hand build the G-Wagen for Mercedes at their Graz, Austria facility.
What the press said
Motor Trend described the Second-Gen truck as “shockingly capable” and that it was “apparent that there isn’t much the new G-wagen can’t handle.” Caranddriver noted that the interior is noticeably “roomier”.
What we still don’t know
There’s no official word on motors that will come with the new G-Wagen. On the press drive day, journalists thought that the pre-production models were fitted with the G550’s twin-turbo 4.0 litre petrol V8, delivering 415 bhp. To save fuel, Mercedes have developed a cylinder deactivation device, allowing it to run on 4 cylinders when driving round town. An AMG model is undoubtedly planned, offering closer to 600bhp as well as an inline 6 diesel engine. A mild hybrid model would not be out of the question.
Final Thoughts
What we’ve seen so far has left us wanting to find out more. Mercedes have taken a much revered, time proven truck and given it a modern revamp. They’ve managed to do that whilst keeping true to the original military inspired 4×4. We cannot wait till the launch in just a few weeks time!
