All-new Mercedes G-Class coming in 2017

Mercedes will give the G-Class a complete makeover and launch it as an all-new model in 2017. The new G-Class will be wider, lighter and will still retain the character and iconic look of the current model.

The big change is the G-Class getting wider in a bid to increase the vehicle’s stability and to accommodate the new front suspension. The additional width will also create more room inside apart from the dynamic and mechanical advantages. 

“We have to be careful with our heritage,” says Mercedes SUV boss, Andreas Zygan. “We offer something really special. Last year - the 34th - was the best ever for G-class sales. It’s amazing, and one of our idols.”

Among the structural changes the new G-Class will use aluminium and might shed about 200kgs according to sources. The current G350 weighs in at 2,570kgs and the weight loss regime will make it a better performer. The vehicle’s front suspension will use a three or four-link setup, and a more modern electro-mechanical steering system will be fitted.

Inside the cabin, the G-Class will get additional space, quality and comfort and adds a bit of aura fittings from the C-Class. 

The engine range will include the new in-line six cylinder, 3.0-litre engine and the new diesel engine (OM 656) that will also make its way in the 2016 E-Class. A petrol engine with a power output of 360bhp and a diesel engine churning out 300bhp are also being considered. A nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox will be standard across the range. The AMG models will be launched shortly following the launch of the standard versions. 

Mercedes didn’t sell the standard variants of the G-Class in India. Instead we got only the AMG models. Considering it is a niche product and the limited market for such products, we may not get the standard variants here. The G-Class might be launched in India once the AMG models are launched in the global markets.

Source: ACI