Mercedes-Benz G-Class set for major overhaul in 2017
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class will get a major overhaul in 2017 intended to update the 35-year-old off-roader in almost every way.
Autocar reports Mercedes plans to widen the G-Class by about 100mm to create extra room for passengers and make more space for the refreshed SUV’s new three- or four-link front suspension setup.
A new electro-mechanical steering system is also set to feature along with revisions to the car’s basic structure that will reportedly lead to weight loss of more than 200kg – a welcome reduction from the current model’s 2530-2570kg kerb weight.
The updated G-Class is expected to take some styling inspiration from the Ener-G-Force concept that debuted at the 2012 Los Angeles auto show. Mercedes-Benz won’t venture too far from the G-Class’ iconic boxy styling, however, with the brand notching up record sales for the military-inspired model that has been in production since 1979.
Upgrades to the interior will also focus on improving quality and comfort, while a host of additional technology and driver-assist safety features will also trickle down from existing Mercedes passenger cars and SUVs.
Autocar reports the 2017 G-Class will inherit two new 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines that are currently being readied for the next-generation E-Class, and will feature the brand’s new nine-speed automatic transmission.
High-performance AMG variants will join the updated range sometime after the launch of the regular G-Class range.
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