The first official image of the revised Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been released in the lead up to the boxy 4WD’s anticipated unveiling later this year.

The updated G-Class made a cameo appearance in the background of an official image that was intended to display fresh upgrades to the GLK-Class urban SUV, which is produced in left-hand-drive primarily for the US.

From the image, we can see the subtly revised G-Class will benefit from new LED daytime running lights under the headlights and sleeker side mirrors.

International reports suggest the upgraded model’s cabin will feature a new instrument cluster, new steering wheel, a revised centre stack and a new gear knob with updated Comand on-board computer system.

Mercedes-Benz Australia’s David McCarthy says the timing of the G-Class’s arrival is still to be locked in, but is hopeful the updated model will hit local showrooms before the end of 2012.

McCarthy said the local range would continue to feature an entry-level V6 diesel model and a high-performance petrol-powered AMG V8. The 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine will carry over (potentially with a boost to its current 155kW/540Nm output), but the 373kW/700Nm 5.4-litre supercharged V8 will be replaced either by Merc’s 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 powerplant or the larger 6.2-litre V8.

Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class will not be introduced to Australia until the launch of the second-generation model, which is expected around 2015.

The current model was not developed to be compatible with a 4WD right-hand-drive configuration, putting it off Mercedes-Benz Australia’s agenda.