Mild update for an off-road icon: Mercedes-Benz G-Class facelift

Mercedes-Benz has announced a mild update for its off-road icon, the G-Class facelift, with new suspension setup and more powerful 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine chief among the changes.

Closely linked to the ballistic unit found in the hot Mercedes-AMG GT and Mercedes-AMG C 63, the new 4.0-litre 8-cylinder powerplant in the G 500 has been modified, developing 422 HP and 610 Nm. Two turbochargers, arranged between the cylinder banks in the V help the G 500 deliver a spontaneous response and high tractive power.

The crankcase is made of aluminium while the cylinder bore surfaces are twice as hard as conventional cast-iron linings thanks to Daimler’s revolutionary NANOSLIDE® technology, which minimises both internal friction and fuel demand. High efficiency is ensured by Mercedes‑Benz’s use of piezo direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion.

All engines are now compliant with the latest Euro 6 emissions standard, offering up to 16 percent more power and lower fuel consumption.

the G 350 d gets a significant power boost – 245 HP (from 211 HP) and 600 Nm (from 540 Nm)
the AMG G 63 now features 571 HP and 760 Nm (extra 27 HP)
the 12-cylinder AMG G 65 now delivers 630 HP and 1000 Nm, instead of 612 HP.

In therms of styling, the new Mercedes-Benz G-Class facelift is especially easy to identify thanks to its restyled bumpers. The AMG flared wheel arches in the colour of the vehicle are now standard, while the G 350 d also gets 45.7 cm (18-inch) five-spoke light-alloy wheels.

The interior has also received a mild make-over. The G 350 d and G 500 facelift models feature a brand-new eye-catching instrument cluster in two-tube look with 11.4 cm multifunction display and redesigned pointers and dials. The two AMG models also sport a redesigned instrument cluster.

The G-Class is an off-road legend and Mercedes-Benz wants to make sure the updated model will keep its crown. As a result, the new G-Class facelift retains the familiar sturdy basis of body and ladder-type frame. This solution offers generous reserves to cope with the increased power, especially coupled with the impressive array of off-road oriented standard features: permanent all-wheel drive, low-range gearbox and three differential locks that can be engaged/disengaged while on the move.