Last week, spy photos of the new 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class 4×4² without any camouflage made their way online. Now, a beautiful pair of renderings of the lifted G-Wagon have made their way as well.

The current-generation G-Class doesn’t look dramatically different than the previous model and similarly, the flagship 4×4² won’t be all that different either. Which in reality is not a bad thing. As the saying goes, if it’s not broke, don’t fix it and the original G-Class 4×4², badged as the G500 in Europe and the G550 in the United States, is one of the most badass vehicles currently out there.

Mercedes G-Class 4×4

These renderings from Kolesa depict the new 4×4² with a black bull bar that could be offered as an option but wasn’t present on the prototype recently snapped. Like the previous-gen model, the vehicle will use advanced portal axles to give it a huge amount of ground clearance, not that most buyers will be brave enough to take it off-roading.

Spin around to the rear and the vehicle has been rendered with a spare wheel attached to the tailgate and a thick bull bar covering it. The small rear ladder of the recent prototype is not present in these renderings but we suspect it will be an option.

Details regarding the powertrain of the new 4×4² remain unclear. There is no doubt that it will feature a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 like most current AMG models but it remains to be seen if it will produce the same 416 hp and 450 lb-ft (610 Nm) of torque as the previous G500 / G550 4×4² models. Given how popular the off-roader proved to be when it went on sale, we wouldn’t be shocked to see the German firm slot in the more punchy 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 of the G63 that offers up 577 hp and 627 lb-ft (849 Nm).

Stylish aesthete, robust off-roader or extrovert SUV – the new Limited Edition models of the G‑Class exemplify how versatile the all-terrain icon still is just before the end of its period of manufacture. A special feature is the embossed emblem of a test scene “Schöckl proved since 1979” on the centre armrest. Comprehensively equipped both inside and outside, the special models are each limited to 463 units in line with the internal model series code. The Limited Edition is available as the G 350 d and G 350 d Professional (combined fuel consumption: 9.9 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 261 g/km) and also as the G 500 (combined fuel consumption: 12.3 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 289 g/km). The exclusive special models are now available for ordering and will reach the showrooms in January 2018.

Mercedes-Benz G 350 d Limited Edition, 2017; designo mokkaschwarz metallic; Polsterung in designo Leder Nappa sattelbraun;Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 9,9 l/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 261 g/km*
Mercedes-Benz G 350 d Limited Edition, 2017; designo mocha black metallic; upholstery in saddle brown designo nappa leather;Combined fuel consumption: 9.9 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 261 g/km*

Mercedes-Benz G 350 d Limited Edition, 2017; designo mokkaschwarz metallic; Polsterung in designo Leder Nappa sattelbraun;Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 9,9 l/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 261 g/km*
Mercedes-Benz G 350 d Limited Edition, 2017; designo mocha black metallic; upholstery in saddle brown designo nappa leather;Combined fuel consumption: 9.9 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 261 g/km*

Mercedes-Benz G 500 Limited Edition, 2017; designo platin magno; Polster designo Leder Nappa Schwarz;Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 12,3 l/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 289 g/km*
Mercedes-Benz G 500 Limited Edition, 2017; designo platinum magno; upholstery in black designo nappa leather;Combined fuel consumption: 12.3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 289 g/km*

Mercedes-Benz G 500 Limited Edition, 2017; designo platin magno; Polster designo Leder Nappa Schwarz;Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 12,3 l/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 289 g/km*
Mercedes-Benz G 500 Limited Edition, 2017; designo platinum magno; upholstery in black designo nappa leather;Combined fuel consumption: 12.3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 289 g/km*

Mercedes-Benz G 350 d Professional Limited Edition, 2017; chinablau;Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 9,9 l/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 261 g/km*
Mercedes-Benz G 350 d Professional Limited Edition, 2017; china blue;Combined fuel consumption: 9.9 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 261 g/km*

Mercedes-Benz G 350 d Professional Limited Edition, 2017; chinablau;Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 9,9 l/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 261 g/km*
Mercedes-Benz G 350 d Professional Limited Edition, 2017; china blue;Combined fuel consumption: 9.9 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 261 g/km*

Mercedes-Benz G-Klasse Limited Edition, 2017; „Schöckl proved since 1979“ Wappen auf der Mittelarmlehne
Mercedes-Benz G-Class Limited Edition, 2017; „Schöckl proved since 1979“ embossed emblem on the centre armrest

At 1445 metres, the Schöckl is far from being the highest peak in the Alps. And yet the local mountain of Graz is both famous and infamous, especially among off-road fans: for many years, not far from where the G‑Class is produced, Mercedes-Benz has used an extremely challenging test track on the mountain. This is commemorated by the embossed Schöckl badge on the centre armrest of the G-Class Limited Edition – a special kind of Alpine accolade. The emblem is bordered by the lettering “Schöckl proved since 1979” and “Limited Edition 1 of 463”. Another feature shared by the three special models is the “Limited Edition” inscription as an emblem on the body on the A-pillar. G 350 d and G 500 also bear the same inscription in illuminated form in the door sill.

There are key differences between the three models in terms of positioning and equipment specification. The G 350 d Limited Edition is the aesthete among the brothers. Its paint finish is in designo mocha black metallic. A particular eye-catcher is the outer protective strip with an exclusive trim insert with a brushed aluminium look. The standard specification includes the Sports package with Exterior Stainless Steel package^[1] and 48.3 cm (19-inch) 5-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels in titanium grey, the Chrome package^[2], heat-insulating dark-tinted glass for rear side windows and rear window, heated windscreen and electric sliding and tilting sunroof.

The interior of the G 350 d Limited Edition indulges its passengers with upholstery in saddle brown designo nappa leather. The seats are in this single colour, while the dashboard and AMG Performance steering wheel feature a two-colour scheme in saddle brown/black. Matching this is contrasting topstitching in light brown. The standard specification also includes black designo piano lacquer trim, Exclusive package^[3], Loading Protection package^[4], leather-covered grab handle on the roof liner and Harman Kardon^® Logic 7^® surround sound system. The intelligent assistance systems, likewise installed ex-factory, include garage door opener, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Blind Spot Assist and Parking package^[5].

The G 350 d Professional Limited Edition is positioned as a robust off-roader. The paint finish of this special model is in china blue. The external distinguishing features include a steel front bumper, protective grilles for the front turn signal lamps, front mud flaps and Professional Offroad package^[6] including roof rack. Exclusive to the interior of this special model is the fabric covering of the centre sections of the seats in the classic diamond design of previous G-models. The standard specification includes heated seats for driver and front passenger, radio with Bluetooth and navigation, heated windscreen, Loading Protection package⁴ and auxiliary heater including remote control.

The role of the extrovert is embodied by the G 500 Limited Edition. Its paint finish in designo platinum magno contrasts with black add-on parts such as the trim insert in the outer protective strip. Painted in magno black are three louvres of the radiator grille and the spare wheel cover. In addition to Chrome package² and Sports package^[7], the standard equipment specification also includes heat-insulating dark-tinted glass for rear side windows and rear window, Harman Kardon^® Logic 7^® surround sound system, TV tuner, heated windscreen, Loading Protection package⁴ and auxiliary heater including remote control. Installed as standard are garage door opener, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Blind Spot Assist and Parking package⁵.

The special interior features include upholstery in black designo nappa leather with white topstitching, AMG Performance steering wheel in black DINAMICA microfibre/nappa leather, black designo piano lacquer trim, Chrome package², Exclusive package³ and leather-covered grab handle on the roof liner.

The Limited Edition models at a glance:

^[1] two high-grade side running boards on left and right; spare wheel cover in stainless steel with 3D Mercedes star
^[2] radiator grille with chrome inserts; all-round chrome strips on the wood panels of the seat adjustment switches; chrome rings around the speakers in the front doors; load sill protector with “Mercedes-Benz” lettering
^[3] Instrument panel in leather; illuminated door sill panels; DINAMICA black designo roof liner
^[4] Load compartment cover, load protection net and trailer coupling with ball head
^[5] Parking Assist PARKTRONIC and reversing camera
^[6] Protective headlamp grilles; heat-insulating dark-tinted glass for rear side windows and rear window; preinstallation for hands-free system; roof rack with rear ladder; load compartment with wooden floor
^[7] Exterior Stainless Steel package with two high-grade side running boards on left and right; spare wheel cover in stainless steel with 3D Mercedes star; 48.3 cm (19-inch) 5‑s poke AMG light-alloy wheels, painted black; spare wheel on rear door; designo floor mats in velour; sports exhaust system
^[8] Non-binding recommended price for Germany including 19% VAT.

All Mercedes-Benz G-Class models now offer up to 16 percent more power and up to 17 percent lower fuel consumption. The range includes the G 500 with a new, powerful 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine. All engines are compliant with the latest Euro 6 emissions standard. A new suspension setup together with more sensitive ESP® control results in increased driving stability, safety and road comfort. The exterior and interior have also been given an upgrade. The exclusive AMG EDITION 463 and the G 500 4×42 are also being launched.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class, G 500

Mercedes-Benz’s classic off-roader is beginning a new chapter in a success story that spans more than 35 years. With its continuously improved technology and high-class equipment specification, this all-terrain icon has consistently satisfied the highest expectations of off-road fans. True to this tradition, a new 4.0-litre directly injected V8 biturbo engine is now celebrating its world premiere in the G‑Class.

8-cylinder biturbo developed by Mercedes-AMG

The new 8-cylinder powerplant in the G 500 can point to an exclusive heritage. It is based on the new generation of V8 engines developed by Mercedes-AMG that have already coaxed exceptional levels of performance out of the Mercedes-AMG GT and Mercedes-AMG C 63. For use in the G-Class, the V8 has been modified to deliver 310 kW (422 hp) with torque of 610 Nm. Other standout attributes include a spontaneous response and high tractive power made possible, for example, by two turbochargers, which instead of being configured on the outside of the cylinder banks, are arranged between them in the V – the so-called “hot inside V”. This layout allows a compact design, optimal response and low exhaust emissions. High efficiency is ensured by Mercedes‑Benz’s use of piezo direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion. Maximum strength with lowest possible weight is guaranteed by the aluminium crankcase of the V8 engine. The cylinder bore surfaces feature Daimler’s NANOSLIDE® technology, which makes them twice as hard as conventional cast-iron liners. This minimises both internal friction and fuel demand.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Technical data of the G 500

Compared with the previous 5.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 unit, the new 8-cylinder biturbo engine puts out 25 kW (35 hp) more power and 80 newton metres more torque. Turbocharging results in maximum power and torque being delivered at lower engine speeds, this being to the benefit of not just tractive power and performance, but also fuel economy. The new G 500 accelerates to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds (previously: 6.1 seconds) and has a combined NEDC consumption of 12.3 litres per 100 kilometres (previously: 14.9 l/100 km).

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

More power, lower fuel consumption

The engines in the other G-Class models have likewise been upgraded:

• the G 350 d benefits from a hike in output from 155 kW (211 hp) to 180 kW (245 hp), with its torque climbing from 540 to 600 Nm. The G 350 d now accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds instead of the previous 9.1 seconds. The combined NEDC consumption drops from 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres to 9.9 l/100 km.
• The AMG G 63 now delivers 420 kW (571 hp) instead of 400 kW (544 hp) with torque of 760 Nm.
• Instead of 450 kW (612 hp), the 12-cylinder powerplant in the AMG G 65 now puts out 463 kW (630 hp) with torque of 1000 Nm.

The G 350 d, G 500 and AMG G 63 are equipped as standard with an ECO start/stop function that reduces fuel consumption and emissions by switching off the engine when the vehicle is at rest, e.g. in a traffic jam or at traffic lights.

As is typical of the G-Class, the new models retain the familiar sturdy basis of body and ladder-type frame, which still offers generous reserves to cope with the increased power. Also retained is the unrivalled off-road performance with permanent all-wheel drive, low-range gearbox and three differential locks that can be engaged/disengaged while on the move.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Optimised ESP®, optionally available adaptive damping system for G 500

The standard suspension setup has been revised with optimised shock absorbers for improved control of body movements and even greater on-road ride comfort. An adapted ESP® setup makes enhanced driving dynamics possible and, as a result, increased driving stability and road safety. Optimisations to ASR and ABS result in improved traction while shortening the stopping distance when braking. The front-axle load capacity has been raised by 100 kg to 1550 kg.

In addition, the G 500 is optionally available with a new adaptive damping system with Sport and Comfort modes. This provides a significantly more agile on-road performance in Sport mode with undiminished off-road capability while at the same time reducing the typical SUV roll in corners. As already familiar from the AMG variants, the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission in the G 350 d and G 500 models now also features a manual transmission mode. This mode, which can be conveniently activated by pressing the “M” button, allows the driver to savour the high available torque and to use the steering-wheel shift paddles to decide just when to change gear.

Enhanced inside and out

Visually, the new G 350 d and G 500 models are especially easy to identify by their restyled bumpers and now standard flared wheel arches in the vehicle colour. The G 350 d now also comes as standard with 45.7 cm (18-inch) five-spoke light-alloy wheels.

On the inside, the G 350 d and G 500 feature an eye-catching instrument cluster in two-tube look with 11.4 cm multifunction display and redesigned pointers and dials. The two AMG models, too, sport a redesigned instrument cluster.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

New choice of colors

A new Color package is available for customers wishing to give their AMG G-Class an even more personal look. There are exclusive exterior paint finishes in solar beam, tomato red, alien green, sunset beam and galactic beam. Detachable parts such as mirrors, front and rear bumpers, wheel arch extensions, the ring around the spare wheel cover as well as the roof are painted in obsidian black. The interior topstitching is colour-matched to the paintwork.

New AMG EDITION 463 special model: visible dynamics

With the new EDITION 463 special model, Mercedes-AMG is giving the G 63 and G 65 an impressive sporty look. The exquisite interior specification includes a two-tone instrument panel, two-tone seats in high-quality designo leather with side bolsters in carbon-look leather and contrasting topstitching, seat and door centre panels in a diamond look, carbon-fibre trim and door pulls in nappa leather.

On the outside, a stainless steel underguard, AMG sport stripes along the sides and a protective-strip insert in black aluminium look underscore both the dynamics and exclusivity of the special model. The G 63 is fitted with exclusive 53.3 cm (21-inch) 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels in matt black with high-sheen spokes and 295/40 R 21 wide-base tyres. The G 65 has an exquisite look with identically sized, ceramically polished 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The Mercedes-Benz G 500 4×42 goes into series production

Having proved hugely popular with many customers, the G 500 4×42 show car is set to enter series production. In the superlative-studded history of the G-Class, the G 500 4×42 is the new highlight in the model range. The technical package consists of the all-wheel-drive powertrain including portal axles and the new 4-litre V8 twin-turbo engine with an output of 310 kW (422 hp).

Also new is the chassis with dual spring/damper struts and adjustable damping. In the interior of the G 500 4×42, occupants enjoy comfort and an ambience on a par with a luxury saloon. In view of the key data for the chassis and powertrain, it seems more than logical that the off-road world starts for the G 500 4×42 where other vehicles give up. The new “G” also puts in an absolutely convincing performance on the asphalt. Owing to the considerably wider track of the portal axles compared with the series-production car (+264 mm), the large 22-inch 325/55 R 22-sized wheels and the adjustable damping with its Sport mode, the enhanced G-Class drives through bends so dynamically that the occupants feel as though they are in a sports car rather than a cross-country vehicle. This also applies to outings on unsurfaced slopes or snow-bound roads, in which case the performance of a high-powered rally car kicks in.

The G 500 4×42 will be in Mercedes-Benz dealer showrooms from December 2015, with all other new G-Class models being available from September 2015.

The new models at a glance:

* for Germany, incl. 19% VAT

The “Extreme-G”: the G 500 4×42 show car proved hugely popular with many customers and is set to enter series production. In the superlative-studded history of the G-Class, the G 500 4×42 is the new highlight in the model range. The technical package consists of the all-wheel drive powertrain including portal axles and the new 4-litre V8 engine with twin turbocharging and an output of 310 kW (422 hp). All the other G‑Class models have further improved interiors and powertrains, and meet the highest emissions standard Euro 6. The G 350 d, G 500, AMG G 63, AMG G 65 and G 500 4×4² can be ordered with immediate effect.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class 2015, Mercedes-AMG G 63, exterior: sunset beam

A new addition to the extreme G-Class model family: the AMG G 63 6×6 is gaining a sibling in the form of the G 500 4×42. The series-production models of the G-Class provide the basis in the form of the body and ladder-type frame, which compensate for the considerably increased performance of the G 500 4×42 with no problem and without any type of reinforcements. The AMG G 63 6×6 has contributed an adapted version of the permanent all-wheel drive powertrain with portal axles.

The new model is powered by the new V8 powerpack with a displacement of four litres, direct injection and twin turbocharging. The efficient and clean 4.0-litre biturbo engine develops an output of 310 kW (422 hp) and maximum torque of 610 newton metres, and meets the Euro 6 emissions standard including the maximum particulate limit prescribed from 2016. The eight-cylinder has a set of exclusive genes: it is based on the new generation of V8 engines developed by Mercedes-AMG that have already coaxed exceptional levels of performance out of the Mercedes-AMG GT and Mercedes-AMG C 63. The G 500 4×42 will be in Mercedes-Benz dealer showrooms from December 2015.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class 2015

Things are really looking up both on and off-road

Also new is the chassis with dual spring/damper struts and adjustable damping. In the interior of the G 500 4×42, occupants enjoy comfort and an ambience on a par with a luxury saloon.In view of the key data for the chassis and powertrain it seems more than logical that the off-road world starts for the G 500 4×42 where other vehicles give up. But it is surprising that the new “G” also puts in an absolutely convincing performance on the asphalt. Owing to the considerably wider track of the portal axles compared with the series-production car (+299 mm), the large 22-inch 325/55 R 22-sized wheels and the adjustable damping with its Sport mode, the enhanced G-Class drives through bends so dynamically that the occupants feel as though they are in a sports car rather than a cross-country vehicle. This also applies to outings on unsurfaced slopes or snow-bound roads, in which case the performance of a high-powered rally car kicks in.

Permanent all-wheel drive, an off-road reduction in the transfer case, portal axles and three differentials lockable while on the move are not to be found in conventional cross-country vehicles. The portal axles developed for versatility in operation complement the off-road portfolio of Mercedes-Benz and are the technical highlight of the G 500 4×42. Unlike on conventional rigid axles, the wheels are not at the height of the axle centre but are instead situated much further below on the axle heads thanks to the portal transmission. As a result the ground clearance of the G 500 4×42 increases to 450 millimetres and the fording depth – or rather the diving depth – to 1000 millimetres.

Mercedes-AMG G 63

Systematic further development and high-quality appointments

Since its launch in 1979, the G-Class has made history and is the foundation for the entire Mercedes-Benz SUV family. More than 250,000 vehicles have been delivered to customers since the first model of the G-Class was introduced. Mercedes-Benz keeps this legendary off-roader series in peak technical form with systematic further development and high quality appointments. The G-Class now offers up to 16 percent more power and a lower fuel consumption. The new V8 petrol engine is also used in the G 500. Whether diesel or petrol powered – all engine variants are fit for the future, for from now on they meet the requirements of the highest Euro 6 emissions standard. A new suspension setup together with more sensitive ESP® control results in increased driving stability, safety and road comfort. The exterior and interior have also been given an upgrade. The exclusive AMG special model, the EDITION 463, is being launched at the same time. The new models can be ordered with immediate effect, and will be in the showrooms from September 2015.

While the Mercedes G-Class was busy tearing up South Africa and Namibia on a test run, it was suggested that the Mercedes G-Class undergo a test that might actually push the G to its limits (as if it has any).  At first it was suggested to take the G to the Moon, but that’s so 1969.  So the next logical step, of course, is rocking the G-Class on Mars, which is exactly what Mercedes did.*   You can check out the G-Class’ Mission to Mars in the photo gallery below.

*Actually, it went to the Moroccan desert with some guys in Mars mission spacesuits – but Mars sounds way cooler.

Mercedes-Benz is welcoming spring with two new, luxuriously equipped special G-Class models. Among other enhancements, an extensive stainless steel package and mounted AMG features ensure a visually striking appearance for the “BA3 Final Edition” based on the short-wheelbase Station Wagon and the “Edition Select” with a long wheelbase. In the interior a Chrome package and many more comfort-enhancing extras dominate the ambience of this classic, which has continued to enjoy the affection of off-roader fans worldwide for no less than 32 years.

A classic off-roader is entering its final phase: as the model designation suggests, Mercedes-Benz is producing the last edition of the short wheelbase Station Wagon in the successful G-Class with the special “BA3 Final Edition” model. Two variants will be available: in the G 350 BlueTEC a 6-cylinder diesel engine with the very latest BlueTEC emissions control, 155 kW (211 hp) and 540 newton metres for great pulling power both on and off the road. In the G 500 a powerful 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine with 285 kW (388 hp) and 530 newton metres effortlessly performs the same function.

Both special models of this classic among Mercedes-Benz off-roaders are equipped with the same high-performance drive and dynamic handling control systems. Alongside the permanent all-wheel drive with off-road ratio and the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, the standard specification includes the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS, the Electronic Stability Program ESP® and three differential locks with 100-percent locking effect selectable at the push of a button.

Externally Mercedes-Benz has significantly upgraded the “BA3 Final Edition”. AMG flared wheel arches in the vehicle colour, in combination with 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels and tyre size 265/60 R 18, underline the striking appearance of the special model. Running boards and a spare wheel cover with a 3D Mercedes-Benz star in stainless steel, as well as an AMG radiator grille in a 3-louvre design with chrome highlights, emphasise its exceptional position in the range. Standard features also include an electric sliding/tilting sunroof, metallic paintwork, rear mudflaps, carbon-fibre look inserts in the protective strips, an ultrasonic reversing aid and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

In the interior the driver and passengers are able to enjoy even more generous appointments. Fine details and high-grade technology raise both visual appeal and comfort to a new level. Further highlights are provided by stylish yet functional ambient lighting, as well as chrome highlights on the frame and selector lever cover, seat adjustment controls and the loudspeakers in the front doors. Another eye-catching detail is the chrome luggage compartment sill panel with “Mercedes-Benz” lettering.

Outstandingly high seating comfort is assured by the multicontour front seats in black leather with seat climatisation. These offer first-class comfort on long journeys, even in mid-summer temperatures. They are accompanied by burr walnut wood trim, and the same, high-grade wood plus leather adorns the steering wheel and selector lever.

Standard equipment also includes a convenience telephony system in the armrest, with a universal interface for various mobile phone cradles, extended telephone functions, a charging function and an external aerial for optimum reception. Useful accessories include rubber mats for the footwells and load compartment, as well as a load compartment cover including additional stowage boxes.

As the G 350BlueTEC the “BA3 Final Edition” is priced at € 90,511.40, and as the G 500 € 100,685.90 (both prices include 19% VAT).

Special “Edition Select” model

Mercedes-Benz has conceived the special “Edition Select” model with two-tone paintwork exclusively for the long-wheelbase G 500 Station Wagon. At no extra cost, there is a choice of designo mystic white, palladium silver metallic, thulite red metallic and obsidian black metallic. The bumpers, AMG side flaps and exterior mirrors are always painted in obsidian black metallic. Further contrasts are provided by running boards and the spare wheel cover with a 3D Mercedes-Benz star in stainless steel. Other eye-catching features include black-painted 18-inch light-alloy wheels in a 5-twin-spoke design with size 265/60 R 18 tyres, carbon-fibre look inserts in the protective strips, an underguard and an AMG sports exhaust system.

In the interior the stylish atmosphere is characterised by high-grade two-tone upholstery in porcelain/black designo leather. Single-tone black designo leather is available as an alternative. Ambient lighting and chrome trim in the area of the selector lever, the seat adjustment controls and the loudspeakers in the front doors underline the luxurious standard. The Chrome package is rounded off by a chrome luggage compartment sill protector with “Mercedes-Benz” lettering and a radiator grille with chrome inserts.

The dashboard, armrest, door handles and parking brake lever are lined in black leather, with contrasting topstitching is some areas. The inner door panels are lined with gathered leather, and black designo velour floor mats with porcelain edging lend a cosy touch to the footwells. Highlights in the interior also include designo wood trim in black piano lacquer. The steering wheel and selector lever are in a leather/piano lacquer combination with contrasting topstitching.

The already extensive standard equipment is supplemented with stainless steel door sill panels illuminated in white and bearing the lettering “Mercedes-Benz”, as well as crash-responsive NECK-PRO luxury head restraints. The Harman Kardon Logic7® surround sound system is among the finest available. It provides an exquisite listening experience in the off-roader, thanks to a 10-channel DSP amplifier with a total output of 450 watts and twelve high-performance loudspeakers.

The high-grade additional features of the special “Edition Select” model, whose status is marked by a corresponding logo on the cover of the stowage compartment in the dashboard console, are priced at € 6735.40 (incl. 19% VAT).

It is now 30 years since production of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class began. The Stuttgart-based car maker first unveiled this robust off-roader to the public in 1979, since when it has delivered a total of some 200,000 units of the G-Class to customers around the world. Its still striking appearance, which has remained substantially unchanged throughout its 30-year career, plus outstanding engineering, has secured this Mercedes-Benz off-roader cult status in the automotive world, and made it one of the most coveted vehicles of its type on the market.

This model family, which is acknowledged to be the best in the off-road sector, bears the succinct “G” prefix in addition to the Mercedes star, has won the Paris-Dakar Rally, is a means of transport considered fitting for the Holy Father, has become an automotive styling icon, continues to emerge victorious in reader votes and represents the gene pool for the Mercedes-Benz SUV family, which has meanwhile grown to five model series. And that is not all: with a production life of 30 years, the “G” is easily the longest-serving passenger car series in the more than 120-year history of Mercedes-Benz. Continuous model updates keep the G-Class up to the latest technological development status and guarantee a superior drive system, but without diluting its essential character. Thanks to a combination of permanent all-wheel drive, the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS, ESP®, a “low-range” gearbox and three selectable differential locks, the G-Class is equal to any off-road challenge while ensuring the handling safety expected of a Mercedes on the road.

Last year too, both the comfort-oriented 463 series and the utility-oriented 461 series of the G-Class held their own outstandingly throughout the world. There are currently no plans to bring this success story spanning three decades to an end.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG: “We have sold 200,000 examples of the “G” to date. The vehicle is now more successful than ever, and the customers are more enthusiastic than ever. Perhaps we will be celebrating yet another major anniversary in ten years time.”

The unending story begins in 1972

The development of an off-road vehicle began in 1972, with a cooperation agreement between Daimler-Benz and Steyr-Daimler-Puch in Graz, Austria. In 1975 the decision was taken to commence series production and construct new production facilities in Graz, where the G-Class is still mainly hand-assembled to this day. When the series was premiered in spring 1979, four engine variants were available with outputs from 53 kW/72 hp to 110 kW/150 hp, either as a Convertible with a short wheelbase or a Station Wagon with a short or long wheelbase. After continuous model facelifts and further development during the first ten years, a major development step was taken in 1989, when the G-family had offspring. As an addition to the revised original model with the in-house series designation 460, which was in future to be destined mainly for utility-oriented users, the range was extended with the 463-series models. With new, permanent all-wheel drive, differential locks at the front and rear axles, which now became standard equipment, and a fully lockable inter-axle differential, these marked a new technical departure. ABS also became available as an optional extra. The completely redesigned interior impressed with new comfort features such as new seats, interior body panels, a centre console, a new dashboard and exotic wood trim.

Since September 2001 the G-Class has also featured the trailblazing handling stability, traction and braking control systems ESP®, 4ETS and Brake Assist.

A full range: the current G-Class

The current model family is available in three body variants (short-wheelbase Station Wagon, long-wheelbase Station Wagon, Convertible), which can be combined with either the economical V6 CDI engine developing 165 kW/224 hp and 540 newton metres, or a powerful 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine with 285 kW/ 388 hp and 530 newton metres. The top-of-the-range G 55 AMG, which is available only as a four-door, long-wheelbase Station Wagon, has a supercharged V8-engine generating an output of 373 kW/507 hp and an impressive maximum torque of 700 newton metres. The result is shattering performance that goes together with an incomparable sound to characterise this particularly sporty version.

Another important model in the range is the G-Guard, which is based on the long-wheelbase G 500 Station Wagon. This fully-armoured special protection G-Class is certificated to protection class B6 or B7 against attacks with handguns, longarms and explosive charges of defined size.

G-Class EDITION30 and G-Class EDITION30.PUR: Spectacular special models to mark the anniversary

The fact that the G-Class was designed for operations in the most difficult terrain right from the start is made particularly clear by the special EDITION30. PUR model based on the G 280 CDIfrom the G 461 series. This long-wheelbase Station Wagon pays homage to the first-generation G-Model, has been optimised specifically for the toughest assignments off the beaten track and is therefore the future dream car for world travellers, expedition leaders, confirmed fans of the “G” and customers who are in search of an automotive rarity with uncompromising reliability and the ability to go anywhere. With the optional “Off-road package 1” or “Off-road package 2”, the G EDITION30.PUR can e.g. be equipped for any eventuality with all-terrain tyres in size 265/75 R 16 on aluminium wheels, flexible wheel arch flaring, protective grilles for the headlamps and lights, a walk-on bonnet for easier access to the optional roofrack, a towing lug at the front and a two-section rear door. In the interior there are four individual seats upholstered in hard-wearing fabric or man-made leather, rubber floor coverings in the passenger compartment, spray-protected controls and drainage apertures in the footwells. A load compartment with a wooden floor, load lashing lugs and rails is standard, as are an auxiliary heater and manually operated air conditioning to cope with any climatic zone encountered.

With the special EDITION30 model based on the G 463 series, Mercedes-Benz is once again demonstrating the possibilities of the G-Class with respect to comfort and prestige. Externally, this long-wheelbase G 500 Station Wagon is distinguished by a designo platinum black paint finish, specially designed light-alloy wheels and EDITION30 lettering on the wings. The interior of this G 500 impresses with designo leather in the colour “chablis” and designo trim in anthracite poplar wood.

The two special models can be ordered from mid-February 2009. The “EDITION30.PUR” from the 461 series costs from 59,381 Euro incl. VAT, while the “EDITION30” based on the long-wheelbase G 500 Station Wagon is priced from 97,461 Euro incl. VAT.