The 2016 G-Class

The iconic Mercedes-Benz off-road vehicle continues to be a resounding success with better-than-ever sales on a global basis. Since it was originally conceived in 1979 as a vehicle to be used primarily in tough off-road terrain, the G-Class has undergone an astounding evolution. The AMG G65, the most recent offering in the G-Class lineup, will arrive in dealerships in early 2016.

The G-Class today is considered the top model among luxury-class cross-country vehicles, and has provided the gene pool for other very successful SUVs built under the Mercedes-Benz brand. The G-Class has been voted off-roader of the year countless times over the past years, most recently this year. A comprehensive range of features ensures that this classic cross-country vehicle remains in a class of its own in the off-road sector.

These highlights include two powerful V8 Biturbo engines for the G550 and AMG G63 (hand-built for the AMG G63) and a hand-built V12 Biturbo engine for the AMG G65, a significantly extended range of appointments, a luxurious interior and a few discreet external modifications that nevertheless manage to preserve the timeless, classic design – virtually unchanged since 1979 - that has made the G-Class a true automotive style icon. Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: "Our G-Class has been a force to be reckoned with for the last 34 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."

Coming to the US market for the first time in early 2016 is the Mercedes-AMG G65. Powered by an AMG 6-liter V12 Biturbo engine, the AMG G65 delivers 621 hp and 738 lb-ft. of torque, with an estimated 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.2 seconds. The G-Class is the only off-road vehicle in its class to combine the electronic traction system 4ETS with a transfer case and three 100% differential locks. The AMG G65 also offers exclusive interior upholstery and exterior paint options, a redesigned grille and new 21-inch wheels.

In addition to its new exterior design and 19-inch wheels, the G550 is now the only G-Class model to offer adjustable suspension—a feature never previously offered on the G-Class.

Over the course of 35 years, Mercedes-Benz has refined what was initially a very practically-oriented off-road specialist by giving it a premium interior and road-going qualities on par with those of the premium sedans from Mercedes- Benz.

The interior of the G-Class is characterized by high-quality appointments finished with exquisite materials, and the instrument cluster has been completely redesigned. The driver is greeted by a color instrument cluster display between two round dials. Other standard features include the latest COMAND infotainment system featuring mbrace2, including a navigation system and internet access. Standard safety features include the addition of Blind Spot Assist, the parking aid PARKTRONIC and the adaptive cruise control system DISTRONIC PLUS. The AMG G63 with an AMG 5.5-liter V8 Biturbo engine and the ECO stop/start system as standard continue to dominate the model mix in the USA.

Discreet exterior modifications, a complete look inside

The AMG G63 and AMG G65 versions also feature a characteristic AMG radiator grille with double louvers, plus distinctive bumpers with large air intakes. Red brake calipers and 20-inch and 21-inch wheels complement the emotional appeal of its exterior.

The instrument panel and center console have modern controls and are generously proportioned, with exclusively designed trim elements. These give the interior of the SUV a fresh, premium look. Drivers benefit from a color display in the instrument cluster between the two round gauges. A large color screen, conveniently positioned in the center, is part of the COMAND system and incorporates the standard COMAND Controller.

This infotainment system offers, amongst other features, a navigation system, voice-operated controls and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. In order to ensure that the G-Class nevertheless does not lose any of its character, certain specific design elements in the interior have been preserved. The G-Class retains the grab handle on the front-passenger side, the switches for the three differential locks – clearly aligned within the driver's field of vision and highlighted in silver trim – and the redesigned shift lever in the lower section of the center console.

Standard safety features include DISTRONIC PLUS, Blind Spot Assist and the parking aid PARKTRONIC with reversing camera. The ESP® system includes Trailer Stability Assist and a HOLD function. Further individualization options from the exclusive designo range are available as enhancements to what is already a very high-quality interior.

Sophisticated engines with high power reserves

The available engines for the G-Class include the powerful 4.0-liter Biturbo V8 gasoline engine in the G550, which has an output of 416 hp and offers excellent torque of 450 lb-ft. The engine is mated to the familiar 7-speed automatic transmission. This sixth generation of the stepped automatic transmission that has been developed and produced by Mercedes-Benz since 1960 has been optimized with regard to both consumption and comfort.

The AMG G63 features a hand-crafted AMG 5.5-liter V8 Biturbo engine with 563 hp and 561 lb-ft of torque and an ECO stop/stop system as standard.

The AMG G65 features a hand-crafted AMG 6-liter V12 Biturbo engine boasting 621 hp and 738 lb-ft. of torque.

Superior off-roader

The technical qualities of the G-Class continue to be highly prized. The tremendous torque of its engines makes the luxury off-roader an excellent vehicle for towing, while its three electrically controlled 100-percent differential locks, ladder frame and rigid axle characteristics make it an unrivalled proposition in rough, off-road terrain.

About Mercedes-Benz USA

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse line-up in the luxury segment with 14 model lines ranging from the sporty CLA-Class four-door coupe to the flagship S-Class.

MBUSA is also responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service of Mercedes-Benz Vans and smart products in the U.S. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com, www.mbsprinterusa.com and www.smartusa.com.