After an extensive facelift in 2012, the addition of the crazy G 63 AMG 6x6 in 2013 and the arrival of the G 500 4x4^2 last year, together with the launch of a mild revision for the 2016 model year which includes updated engines and technology for the entire lineup of models, Mercedes-Benz has given the greenlight to a massive overhaul to the G-Class. The upgraded 2018 G-Class, which heralds the transition to the W 464 model series, will be introduced next year in the first semester, with the market launch scheduled for autumn 2017.
The G-Class has been on the market since 1979. Over the 37 years, it has been subjected to several refreshment procedures that were aimed at keeping the mighty offroader up to date as well as attracting new clients. The increased popularity of the Geländewagen has led to the decision of Mercedes-Benz to extend the production up to 2025 at the established Magna-Steyr factory in Graz, Austria.
The 2018 G-Class Facelift will display a fresh design inspired by the Sensual Purity design philosophy of Mercedes-Benz. As seen from the spy shots, the louvres in the radiator grille will feature longitudinal perforations as in the case of the GLE and GLS models. The front bumper will also receive a bolder design, with revised aerodynamic inlets. The headlights appear to be slightly bigger, as they are prone to receive the MULTIBEAM LED system that debuted on the E-Class (BR213).
The rear end will receive minor modifications, but they will be visible enough to differentiate the model from the past generations. LED tail lights will be standard. Inside, the G-Class will receive a new dashboard design, which will be completely digitalised thanks to the addition of two large LED screens for the instrument cluster and the infotainment system. The COMAND Online will also come equipped with the well-known touchpad. The steering wheel could also feature the Touch Controls premiered on the E-Class. Expect premium materials and more attractive colour combinations, as well improved ergonomics.
The new G-Class (W 464) will also receive a slightly tweaked platform to increase comfort and improve dynamics. To enhance efficiency, the 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox will become standard on the G-Class. The powertrain will include new engines, among which the future M256 and OM656 families of I6 petrol and diesel engines. This means new versions are planned, such as G 400 with up to 340 hp and G 400 d with 313 hp. The G 500 will continue with the AMG M176 422 hp V8 BITURBO unit. The Mercedes-AMG G 63 should receive the 4.0-litre AMG M177 V8 BITURBO with up to 585 hp, as in the recently revealed Mercedes-AMG GT R supercar. The range-topping G 65 should stick to the 6.0-litre V12 engine rated at 630hp.
Image Credits: Auto Motor und Sport
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