Mercedes G-Class revamp brings hybrid energy and touchscreen

Mercedes G-Class revamp brings hybrid energy and touchscreen

Mercedes G-Class revamp brings hybrid energy and touchscreen

The Mercedes G-Class vary has been absolutely electrified as a part of a considerable replace that additionally features a vary of measures to enhance each usability and effectivity.

The present technology of the vastly succesful off-roader was launched in 2018, and can shortly acquire a full-electric variant for the primary time. As a part of the facelift, Mercedes-AMG has additionally made substantial revisions to the G63.

The entry-level mannequin will proceed to make use of a 3.0-litre straight-six diesel, though it’s now mated to a 48V delicate hybrid built-in starter generator (ISG). That lifts energy by 20bhp to 362bhp, whereas considerably boosting torque to 553lb ft – which is why it has been rebadged from G400d to G450d.

The G500 will proceed to be supplied in some markets, with its 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line petrol unit now lifted to 442bhp and 413bhp.

While the G-Class seems just about similar to earlier than – “we fought hard to make the new G look like the old G,” mentioned mission supervisor Tony Mäntele – there are quite a few small design adjustments to spice up each effectivity and practicality.

There is a brand new entrance bumper and radiator grille, whereas the A-pillars have been subtly rounded off and a brand new lip added to the forefront of the windscreen. The latter two adjustments are designed to enhance aerodynamic effectivity and cut back inside noise, and had been impressed by developments for the electrical model. Through these and different minor developments, Mäntele claims the drag coefficient of the G-Class has been diminished from 0.53 to 0.48.

The front-facing digital camera has now been mounted decrease within the entrance bumper in order that it gives higher visibility of obstacles utilizing a brand new ‘transparent bonnet’ view – a change that required Mercedes to suit a small auto-deploying washer jet to make sure the digital camera stayed clear.

Inside, the G-Class features the newest model of the MBUX infotainment system – which implies it will get a touchscreen for the primary time – together with temperature-controlled cup holders and a wi-fi cell charger. In one other nod to practicality, the G-Class now options keyless entry for the primary time; whereas a seemingly minor tweak, it required substantial work to put in with out redesigning the door deal with itself.

The off-road ‘control centre’ in the midst of the dashboard has additionally been revamped to offer simpler entry to key capabilities. What hasn’t modified is the off-road functionality of the mannequin: it has floor clearance of 229mm, a fording depth of 70cm, a 31 diploma angle of strategy and the flexibility to stay secure on inclines of as much as 35 levels.

UK pricing particulars for the revamped G-Class line-up have but to be revealed.