The G-Wagen has been carrying the flagship crossover torch for Mercedes-Benz for 45 years already. This iconic off-roader has remained virtually unchanged for almost half a century. However, by 2024, Mercedes will finally electrify its legendary SUV to some extent, anticipating the upcoming launch of the EQG EV later this year.
The base version of the G550 ditches the V8 engine in favor of a new turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with mild hybrid support, thanks to exhaust gas turbocharging and an electric auxiliary compressor. This gives the base G-Class version 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, with an integrated starter-generator providing an additional 20 hp and 148 lb-ft. This is 27 horsepower more than the previous model but slightly less torque.
The updated nine-speed automatic transmission with torque converter provides wider gear ratios overall, while the 40-60 torque split on the all-wheel-drive system remains standard. Even with a smaller engine, the G550 still boasts excellent off-road capabilities. Three mechanical differential locks combined with a transfer case offering low-range gearing are available for off-road driving. The same 9.5 inches of ground clearance remains in place, as do the approach and departure angles at 30 and 31 degrees, respectively.
Mercedes has added the Off-Road Cockpit feature to the MBUX infotainment system to assist in off-road driving. The Off-Road Cockpit displays data such as vehicle position, altitude, steering angle, and temperature on a 12.3-inch touchscreen and corresponding digital instrument cluster, allowing users to customize the display to their preferences. The «Transparent Hood» feature, borrowed from the EQE and GLC models, also remains, allowing the driver to see «through» the front of the vehicle using a 360-degree camera view.
The G-Class offers a plethora of other technologies, including a comprehensive suite of driver assistance equipment as part of the standard driver assistance package. These include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, and more. The Parking package also includes a 360-degree camera. Buyers can add options such as adaptive turn assistance, active emergency braking, and route-based speed adaptation assist.
While the base G550 model downsizes its engine, the performance-oriented G63 remains unchanged. The twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine remains, with 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, along with the same 48-volt hybrid support mechanism as the base model. This is sufficient to propel the G63 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds.
AMG Active Ride Control is a new option on the G63, adding hydraulic roll stabilization and adjustable adaptive damping for improved performance both on and off-road. You can get it as part of the AMG Offroad Package Pro.
Both the base G550 and G63 receive minor visual updates by 2025. The G63, in particular, comes with a new Manufaktur Hyper Blue Magno paint option, standard adaptive LED headlights, and an updated bumper design. You can also choose from six different wheel options ranging from 20 to 22 inches in diameter.
