New Mercedes-Benz G-class Launched Reinterpreted For Today

A lot has changed but it’s still the benchmark for originality, ruggedness and luxury

- Imran Malik

The legendary G-Class, which was originally conceived as a military vehicle in the Seventies, has taken a giant leap into a new era — but critically it stays true to its unrivalled legacy.

Launched last week in Dubai, the second-generation features the latest cutting-edge technology, improved performance and although the boxy outline remains, it’s now smoother and features a revised grille and headlights. It’s 53mm longer and 121mmwider. There’s a new front suspension with independent double wishbones (which replace the four-decades-old stick axle) and power comes from a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 (it makes 585bhp in the G63) mated to a new nine-speed automatic that sends the grunt to all four wheels. A drive-mode selector allows the driver to choose from Comfort, Sport, Individual, or Eco modes but best of all is the “G-Mode” which optimises the throttle, gearing, and steering for off-road driving. The break-over angle and approach angle have both been improved too. Just a handful of carryover parts have been used (the rear-mounted spare tyre cover, door handles and headlight washer nozzles) other than that what we have here is the most extensive update in the history of the Geländewagen.