2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: update for army-inspired off-roader | CarAdvice

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2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: update for army-inspired off-roader

By Tim Beissmann
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The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been upgraded with minor exterior tweaks, a modernised interior and a new engine for the range-topping AMG performance model.

The updated model will go on sale in Europe later this year, although Mercedes-Benz Australia’s Jerry Stamoulis says local customers will have to wait until around April/May 2013 to get behind the wheel of the hand-built off-roader.

From the outside the G350 (pictured above) and G63 AMG benefit from LED daytime running lights and new side mirrors. The AMG model scores a redesigned double-louvre grille and revised bumper with larger air intakes, while 20-inch alloy wheels and red brake callipers are available for the first time.

Inside, the instrument cluster and centre console have been completely redesigned, giving the cabin a premium feel on par with the luxury German manufacturer’s passenger cars.

The instrument panel now features a colour TFT display between two round binnacles. A large screen is positioned at the top of the centre console, incorporating Mercedes’ Comand system, internet connectivity, satellite navigation with off-road functions, voice control, Bluetooth connectivity and a DVD changer.

The climate and audio controls now have a more upmarket appearance, with classy piano black and satin details.

The rugged edges haven’t been completely sanded back, however, with the G-Class retaining its passenger-side grab handle and switches for the three differential locks. The ESC system has been completely revised for the new model to include trailer stability assist and a hold function.

New optional features include active cruise control, blind spot assist, Parktronic with reversing camera and a range of individualisation options for the interior.

The G63 AMG replaces the G55 AMG at the top of the new G-Class line-up. Its 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 engine produces 405kW of power (at 5500rpm) and 760Nm of torque (from 2000-5000rpm), which represents a 32kW/60Nm increase over the previous model’s supercharged 5.4-litre V8.

Fuel consumption is rated at 13.8 litres per 100km, down significantly from the G55 AMG’s 15.9L/100km figure.

The entry-level G350 diesel is unchanged, carrying over its 155kW/540Nm 3.0-litre engine and 11.2L/100km economy rating.

Mercedes-Benz currently sells approximately 10 G-Classes a month in Australia.

Australian specification and pricing details for the updated model will be confirmed closer to its local launch in the second quarter of next year.


 

  • Guest

    No one in their right mind would buy this….

    • Tents

      For some unexplainable reason, I find the G Class to be one of the most desirable cars on the road. 

      • HansScorpio

        Same here. I dream of one day being an evil overlord, stroking a white cat and laughing in the back seat of the G Wagen.

    • Igomi Watabi

      I adore the G-Wagen. I just wish it was marketed as it should be, as a utilitarian work vehicle

  • horsie

    soooo ugly!!
    makes ssangyong look stylish.

    • Yetiman

      You are ugly, this is elegant and beautiful. IMO

  • Asdf

    I think the G Wagen, CLS and Panamera are those cars that are ugly and should not exist. But yet they have an indelible charm that make them so attractive and cooler than anything else beside them. In black with decent rims, those 3 cars look and feel cooler than any of their immediate rivals.

  • theillestlife

    Definitely the most desirable 4×4 on sale. I don’t know why, but I absolutely love the G-Class. It’s so boss.

  • Force-15

    I’ve heard (from Autoblog) that there’s also going to be a G65 AMG with a twin-turbocharged 6L V12; talk about deliciously insane. As much as I hate (most) luxury “SUV’s” I’d like to see THAT arrive in Australia.

    • Realtor

      The G55 was the most rediculous car I have ever driven in my life however it has more presence and theatre than anything else in existence. It is an insanely masculine car without any direct rival! I’d have one in a heart beat!

  • Jimmy

    Drove my friends G55 for a week when I was in Delhi (worst place to drive one of these tanks). At first I hated it, but the more I drove it, the more I loved it. I can’t quite tell you why, maybe the sound of the v8, maybe the sheer presence of the beast, but if I had the $ I would buy one in a heartbeat :)

  • Barton Slattery

    Not everyone can pull it off, but this car in black or white with different wheels is quite possibly the coolest car on the planet. obsessed.

  • Mapleleaf

    My favorite Merc by far. This car has the legend of the g-wagon. I always check it out when I go for a service.

  • Springvale Boi

    The kardashians got one.

  • Ben

    Great! I just threw up. 

    Good job at the boring box on wheels… Now stop hitting it with the ugly stick already.

    Now off to get second lunch.