Claiming it is “the leader among off-road vehicles” Mercedes-Benz has announced that the G-Class (better known to most off-roaders as the G-Wagen) has been “significantly upgraded”. Originally introduced in 1979, it’s come a long way since we had a short wheelbase diesel version on long-term test on the magazine. Utilitarian looks, somewhat austere perhaps, it certainly had little in terms of luxury – but still we loved the thing, and yes it was very good off-road, but ‘a leader’? Maybe not. Times have changed, however, and the latest version is certainly luxurious, and includes the new G 63 AMG with an eight-cylinder biturbo engine which is a 5.5-litre unit producing an awesome 544bhp at 5500rpm and a staggering 760Nm (560lb ft) of torque! Add to this the three electronically operated diff locks, ladder frame chassis, rigid axles and it can certainly perform in the rough. Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars explained: “Our G-Class has been a force to be reckoned with for the last 33 years. In its latest evolutionary stage, it offers state-of-the-art, powerful engines, a further improved range of luxurious appointments and the very latest safety features, as well, of course, as its now legendary off-road capabilities. At the same time the design remains true to its down-to-earth, unmistakable style.” This new generation G-Class will be available in the autumn, not all models come to the UK and they are under special order. Prices have yet to be announced, but if you go to the website, G-Class prices start from £81,745, with the present AMG model starting at £117,610…
