Detroit Auto Show 2018: 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

For the first time since 1979, an all-new Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been unveiled at the 2018 North American International Auto Show. Something of an icon, the new 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class will launch in Australia halfway throughout 2018 in AMG G63 form, with a non-AMG diesel model to launch later in the year. The reveal of the new G-Class is the most significant since the AMG Project One at Frankfurt 2017.

While the new G-Class may look familiar, it has grown in size, the interior is all-new and is worlds apart from the model it replaces. Available technology has taken a big leap forward as well, and Mercedes-Benz is claiming that the new G-Glass is more car-like than ever before to drive. Yet, the new G-Class is also the most off-road capable it’s ever been as well.

“The new 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is setting the bar higher still in all relevant areas – in terms of performance both on and off the road as well as with regard to comfort and telematics. Our ‘longest-serving’ model series is therefore ideally equipped to continue its success story. In short, the new ‘G’ is still a ‘G’, only better”, stresses Ola Källenius, Member of the Board of Daimler AG responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

Unmistakable as nothing but a G-Class, the new generation 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is longer, wider and features tighter panel gaps than ever before. The retro styling has been tweaked to give way to more modern features including LED headlights and tailights, as well as a new range of alloy wheels. Measuring 52mm longer now, and 121mm wider, the new G-Class is said to be much roomier than before, yet more confidence-inspiring to drive as well.

Still an off-road champion, the G-Class has shed 170kg of weight thanks to the use of more aluminium throughout the body and chassis. It rides on a ladder-type frame, and has three differential locks. Newly-independent front suspension allows the G-Class’ chassis to flex further, whilst Mercedes claims that the new rear axle allows the car to stay on track more robustly. Because of these changes, the G-Class has approach and departure angles of 31 and 30-degrees respectively, as well as a maximum fording depth of 70cm. Helping this further is a new transfer case, as well as a new G-Mode, which continuously monitors the car off-road and adjusts parameters such as the throttle and steering to help the car’s ability.

The interior of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a much more luxurious and upmarket affair than ever before, and certainly appears to be more upscale than some products in the Mercedes-Benz stable. The dashboard design is all-new and takes a lot from the E-Class sedan and wagon – particularly the inclusion of the dual 12.3-inch screens sitting atop the dashboard. The seats are all new as well, and are available in a whole multitude of colour options – they also feature optional massaging functionality, heating and ventilation, and are heated in the rear.

A 16-speaker Burmester sound system is also available, and the general design of the cabin features much richer details than before. The heritage of the G-Class is echoed in certain spots – the central circular airvents resemble the car’s headlights and the traditional passenger grab handle sits proudly atop the dashboard. The G-Class also utilises Mercedes’ latest infotainment system, with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is due to launch in Australia halfway through 2018 with a single AMG G63 variant – though, this variant is yet to be revealed. Later in 2018 will be joined by an as-yet not revealed G-Class diesel variant with one of the brand’s new inline-six cylinder diesel engines. The twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 G500 revealed at the show is unlikely for Australia.

Stay tuned to Chasing Cars for more news from the 2018 North American International Auto Show.