(continued from the previous page)
Discreet Exterior Modifications, Completely New Interior
The external modifications include LED daytime running lamps and new exterior
mirrors for all engine variants. The AMG versions also feature a new,
characteristic AMG radiator grille with double louvres, plus distinctive new
bumpers with large air intakes. Red brake callipers and 20-inch wheels,
available here for the first time, complement the emotive appeal of its
exterior.
The instrument panel and centre console have been completely redesigned to
include new controls and generously proportioned, exclusively designed trim
elements. These give the interior of the car a fresh and classy look. Drivers
will now find a TFT color display in the instrument cluster between the two
round dials. A further large color screen, conveniently positioned in the
centre, is part of the COMAND Online system and incorporates a DVD changer and
the COMAND Controller, which are standard on all G-Class models. This new
infotainment generation offers, amongst other features, a navigation system with
special additional off-road functions, the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control
system and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. In order to ensure that the G-Class
nevertheless does not lose any of its character, certain specific design
elements in the interior have been preserved. The G-Class thus retains the grab
handle on the front-passenger side, the switches for the three differential
locks - clearly aligned within the driver's field of vision and highlighted in
silver-colored trim - and the redesigned shift lever in the lower section of the
centre console.
New optional extras include safety features such as DISTRONIC PLUS, Blind Spot
Assist and the parking aid PARKTRONIC with reversing camera. The ESP system has
been completely revised and now includes Trailer Stability Assist and a HOLD
function.
Further individualization options from the exclusive designo range are available
as enhancements to what is already a very high-quality interior package.
Sophisticated Engines with High Power Reserves
The range of engines in the G-Class includes the G 350 BlueTEC and the G 500,
both as a long-wheelbase station wagon, plus the G 500 as a short-wheelbase
Cabriolet model. The basic version of the long-wheelbase station wagon model is
the G 350 BlueTEC with V6 diesel engine and a displacement of 2987 cc. The
four-valve engine has an output of 211 hp (155 kW) at 3400 rpm and has available
torque of 332 lb-ft (540 Newton meters) across an engine speed range of 1600 to
2400 rpm. The BlueTEC technology developed by Mercedes-Benz minimizes its
emissions, in particular of nitrogen oxides (NOx). The G 350 BlueTEC works to
even better effect with the addition of AdBlue, an aqueous urea solution that is
injected into the flow of exhaust gases. Refilling with AdBlueis conveniently
done from the outside of the vehicle.
One alternative to the diesel engine is the G 500, with its powerful 5.5-liter
V8 petrol engine. This has an output of 388 hp (285 kW) and offers excellent
torque of 400 lb-ft (530 Newton meters). The same engine also ensures that the G
500 Cabriolet has generous reserves of power to deal with any situation.
Both the G 350 and the G 500 feature the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission
as standard. This sixth generation of the stepped automatic transmission that
has been developed and produced by Mercedes-Benz since 1960 has once again been
thoroughly revised, and optimized with regard to both consumption and comfort.
New to the range is the G 63 AMG with V8 biturbo engine (400 kW/544 hp and 760
Nm of torque), which features the ECO start/stop system as standard. The engine
range has been extended by the addition of the G 65 AMG with V12 biturbo engine
(450 kW/612 hp and 1000 Nm of torque), making this the most powerful
series-produced cross-country vehicle in the world.
In the United States, only two models will be made available: the G550 (same
specs as the G 500) and the G63 AMG.
Superior Off-Roader
The technical qualities of the G-Class continue to be highly prized. The
tremendous torque of its engines makes the luxury off-roader an excellent
vehicle for towing, while its three electrically controlled 100-percent
differential locks, ladder frame and rigid axle characteristics make it an
unrivalled proposition in rough, off-road terrain.
The new G-Class is available from June 2012.
Prices in Germany (incl. 19% VAT):
G 350 BlueTEC 85,311.10 euros
G 500 99,948.10 euros
G 500 Cabriolet 100,900.10 euros
G 63 AMG 137,504.50 euros
G 65 AMG 264,180.00 euros
Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTec: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications