After 33 years the Mercedes-Benz G-Class once again has fresh momentum behind it, as the sales figures for this most enduring of luxury off-roaders go to show. Between 2009 and 2001 sales rose by more than 50 percent. A comprehensive facelift is now set to make this classic among cross-country vehicles an even more attractive proposition.With a new and luxurious interior, some discreet modifications to the exterior, new safety features, a new infotainment system and, in some cases, new engines, Mercedes-Benz has upgraded the award-winning G-Class even further in a continuation of its remarkable evolution.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class was originally conceived as a vehicle for use primarily in tough, off-road terrain; and this was the way it was launched, back in 1979. Over the course of its long years of production, the specification has been regularly modified to reflect the requirements of its customers - but the essential character of the G-Class remains unchanged.
Over the years, state-of-the-art electronics have been applied to improving its already outstanding off-road capability still further. At the same time Mercedes-Benz has continued to work on bringing the interior appointments and road-going qualities up to the same high standard as for the premium saloons emanating from Stuttgart. Its outstanding performance in tough terrain, its ability as a towing vehicle and its luxurious look and feel have all added up to ensure that the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is still going strong after what is now a third of a century. Even today, this classic model is still considered one of the best cross-country vehicles around and has only recently once again been voted "Off-roader of the year" - after 33 years on the market.
Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: "Our G-Class has been a pressure to be reckoned with for the ultimate 33 years. In its cutting-edge evolutionary stage, it gives state-of-the-art, effective engines, a in addition stepped forward variety of high priced appointments and the very cutting-edge protection capabilities, as well, of route, as its now mythical off-avenue capabilities. At the equal time the layout stays actual to its down-to-earth, unmistakable fashion."
Even more secure and greater high priced - the G-Class is essentially hand-constructed in Graz, Austria.
The maximum critical new indoors capabilities of the 2012 facelift include:
- a totally re-designed, terrific dashboard with central, free-status 17.eight cm coloration show unit,
- a totally re-designed centre console with centre dome and generously-sized trim elements,
- a brand new device cluster with round-dial contraptions and TFT coloration show, in addition to new multifunction steerage wheel with shift paddles,
- COMAND Online with net access, operated via the COMAND Controller,
- re-designed, extraordinarily practical and ergonomic controls,
- and a brand new air con manipulate unit.
In order to make certain that the Mercedes-Benz G-Class loses none of its character, positive very regular capabilities of the indoors had been retained:
- snatch take care of at the dashboard for the the front passenger,
- switches for the differential locks highlighted in chrome,
- shift lever at the centre console in place of at the steerage wheel.
- A few careful changes had been made to the outside:
- new outside mirrors,
- new LED daylight walking lamps
- and, for the AMG fashions, a brand new radiator grille with dual slats, new bumpers with big air intakes in addition to purple brake callipers and, for the primary time, 20-inch rims.
The first rate functionality, reliability, first-class and excessive-magnificence fashion stay unchanged.
Five engine variants
The "G" own circle of relatives presently accommodates frame variants - the 4-door lengthy-wheelbase Station Wagon and the G 500 as a Cabriolet with brief wheelbase.
The entry-stage version for the lengthy-wheelbase Station Wagon is the G 350 BlueTEC with 6-cylinder diesel engine and a displacement of 2987 cc. This 4-cylinder unit has an output of a hundred and fifty five kW (211 hp) at 3400 rpm and produces torque of 540 Newton metres over a velocity variety of 1600 to 2400 rpm. The BlueTEC era evolved with the aid of using Mercedes-Benz is used to minimise the engine's emissions, specially of nitrogen oxide (NOx). The G 350 BlueTEC makes use of AdBlue®, an aqueous urea solution, that is injected into the exhaust-fueloline stream. This system releases ammonia, which converts as much as eighty percentage of the nitrogen oxides into innocent nitrogen and water with the aid of using a system of discount withinside the downstream SCR catalytic converter. Since the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is regularly utilized in far off regions of the world, as certainly it turned into designed to do, the engineers have made matters even less difficult with the aid of using integrating the AdBlue® filler cap into the automobile's filler neck compartment, available from the outside. One complete tank of AdBlue® is right for round 12,000 kilometres.
The opportunity to the diesel engine is the G 500, with its effective 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine. This has an output of 285 kW (387 hp) and gives first-rate torque of 530 Newton metres. The equal engine additionally guarantees that the G 500 Cabriolet has beneficiant reserves of energy to cope with any situation.
New to the variety are the G63 AMG and G65 AMG fashions, with which the overall performance emblem of Mercedes-Benz meets the preference for but greater energy. To this end, AMG has geared up the 4-door lengthy-wheelbase Station Wagon of the G63 AMG with a biturbo V8 engine, with an output of four hundred kW (544 hp) and magnificent most torque of 760 Newton metres. This effective AMG V8 engine is geared up as preferred with the ECO start/prevent characteristic, that is a really powerful manner of supporting the driving force to lessen gasoline intake
The new top-of-the-variety version any longer is the G65 AMG, assembly the requirement for a 12-cylinder engine withinside the G-Class. Its overall performance figures are correspondingly magnificent: 450 kW (612 hp) and one thousand Newton metres are there for the taking. The G65 AMG is consequently the maximum effective series-manufacturing off-roader withinside the world.
Automatic transmission for decrease intake and greater a laugh on the wheel
The G 350 and G 500 include the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automated transmission as preferred. Now in its 6th era, the multi-ratio automated transmission turned into evolved with the aid of using Mercedes-Benz and has been produced when you consider that 1960. The new edition has been very well revised to optimise intake and luxury in comparison with its predecessor. The new era of the torque converter presents an stepped forward dynamic reaction and decreased noise and vibration degrees way to a brand new hydraulic circuit, in addition to more advantageous dampers and an optimised torque converter housing. The severe wheel-slip discount of the torque converter housing, mixed with
- large mechanical damper de-coupling, facilitates to lessen intake significantly;
- in addition, the gearshift software in ECO mode has been modified in favour of decrease engine rpm at cruising speeds;
- friction-optimised bearings and seals plus a brand new automated transmission oil (FE-ATF) with decreased viscosity along with an optimised additive package.
Compared with the preceding transmission, this complements the benefit of moving and decreases gasoline intake, pretty aside from including riding enjoyment. The stepped forward durability of the brand new oil additionally way that oil extrade durations have prolonged from 50,000 (old) to 125,000 kilometres (new).
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS seven-velocity automated used withinside the AMG fashions presents greater than good enough energy transmission. Its maximum critical traits: 3 transmission modes, an automated double-declutching characteristic and described ignition and injection retardations to make certain shorter shift instances whilst converting up at complete load.
Technical superiority off-avenue
The technical traits of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class are notably prized. The exceptional torque of its engines makes the posh off-roader an first-rate automobile for towing, at the same time as 3 electrically managed 100-percentage differential locks that may be activated at the same time as the automobile is shifting in low equipment mode, a discount equipment and inflexible axle are traits that make it an unrivalled proposition in rough, off-avenue terrain.
Fundamental to the automobile's functionality in even the hardest terrain is its dip-primed and energy-lined ladder body, comprised of sheet metallic as much as 4 millimetres thick, with strong longitudinal sections and cross-members. This layout is extensively greater strong and consequently higher perfect for off-avenue use than an vital frame construction. The sturdy ladder body now no longer best has the steadiness to cope with torsional forces however additionally bureaucracy the bottom factor of the structure, so defensive the important assembly, gasoline tank and exhaust machine from floor contact, as an instance whilst the automobile is negotiating obstacles.
Suspension guarantees most off-avenue functionality
The suspension of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is likewise in particular designed for riding in hard terrain. The key elements right here are its excessive floor clearance and lengthy surprise route for the springs. Together they offer the idea for the first-rate off-avenue functionality of the G-Class. The figures:
- slope mountain climbing cappotential of as much as eighty pending at the floor,
- 21 cm floor clearance,
- most fording intensity of 60 cm via water and mud,
- tilt perspective as much as 54%,
- perspective of approach/departure as much as 36° on the the front and 27° on the rear (differs with AMG).
Mechanical and digital structures paintings hand in hand
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is the best off-avenue automobile to mix the digital traction machine 4ETS with a switch case and 3 100% differential locks, so permitting the subsequent structures to transport the automobile ahead adequately and reliably:
the everlasting all-wheel pressure is designed for max traction and distributes the energy to the the front and rear axles withinside the ratio 50:50
the digital traction device 4ETS courses the using energy to the wheels with the nice traction, so making it plenty less difficult to barter snow and ice-included roads in addition to worrying off-avenue routes
the 3 100% differential locks practice the using energy exactly in which the nice traction is to be had. They may be switched on in my opinion at the same time as the automobile is moving. Only one wheel wishes to discover grip on the way to pass the automobile forward
the low-variety ratio facilitates to make sure most traction on tough surfaces, for instance in dust or on sand. It may be engaged at speeds of as much as forty km/h in transmission mode N, the usage of the Low Range switch.
The modern protection capabilities
The new era of the G-Class additionally gives a variety of exemplary protection capabilities. For instance, the luxurious off-roader capabilities a very reconfigured ESP® with an automated manage device that consists of start-off help and a HOLD feature, each for less difficult hill begins offevolved. And in an emergency braking situation, whilst the motive force all at once releases the accelerator and hits the brake pedal, the brake device will increase the stress withinside the brake traces, so making use of the brake pads to the disks. This guarantees most impact as quickly because the brake is applied. This "pre-filling" feature helps the Brake Assist device this is already equipped as widespread.
Also new withinside the G-Class are radar-primarily based totally systems: Blind Spot Assist and the adaptive cruise manage device DISTRONIC PLUS.
DISTRONIC PLUS adjusts the space to the automobile in the front automatically. If necessary, it may practice the brakes to carry the off-roader to a stop, after which boost up again. This takes a number of the pressure off the motive force, mainly in bumper-to-bumper using conditions. If the space begins offevolved to slim too fast, the device offers visible and acoustic warnings, thereby prompting the motive force to take action, at which factor Brake Assist (BAS) additionally intervenes to help.
Blind Spot Assist problems a caution if it identifies the presence of a automobile in which it may best be visible with difficulty, in different phrases withinside the driver's "blind spot". The caution takes the shape of an acoustic alert and of a sign withinside the applicable outside mirror.
For clients ordering the optionally available trailer coupling, the ESP® device consists of a trailer stabilisation characteristic that acts to nip any danger of sinusoidal oscillation, or 'fishtailing', at the a part of the trailer withinside the bud, so making using with a trailer a long way safer. This extra ESP® feature detects the trailer as quickly as the electrical connector plug is inserted withinside the socket at the towing automobile. The ESP® trailer stabilisation device uses the ESP® sensors to allow it to counteract any fishtailing of the trailer at speeds better than sixty five km/h through alternating brake software to the left and proper the front wheels. This is commonly enough to put off the hassle and save you any similarly risk. In very extreme instances of fishtailing oscillation, the engine torque is likewise decreased and the towing automobile is braked on all 4 wheels, on the way to carry the automobile returned to inside a secure pace variety as fast as possible.
A beneficial useful resource to parking is furnished through the PARKTRONIC device, which now video display units the vicinity each to the the front and to the rear of the automobile. In the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, this will be mixed with a reversing camera, so enhancing each visibility and protection whilst reversing.
The G-Class for professionals
In addition to the luxurious variations of its Mercedes-Benz G-Class off-roader, Mercedes-Benz additionally gives the G-Class Professional version. This extremely stripped-out, extra practically-orientated model makes a speciality of the robustness and reliability of the G-Class. It has been specially created for severe operations in rugged terrain and, as such, is eminently appropriate to be used through rescue services, for instance. There are of direction additionally personal folks who choose the traditional version for severe off-avenue and day trip use.
Design: New indoors for this genuine person
The outside of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has modified little on the grounds that 1979. It keeps the undying layout that has made it a trendsetter withinside the off-avenue automobile segment. This luxurious off-roader from Mercedes-Benz has lengthy been taken into consideration a layout icon. So, in spite of this modern facelift, there regarded little want to make important changes.
Instead, a bit diffused upgrading of the outside layout has introduced the G-Class into line with the modern-day nation of the art. The upgrading consists of new outside mirrors with incorporated directional signs and the front vicinity lights, painted withinside the automobile shade. The caution sign for the optionally to be had new Blind Spot Assist device is likewise incorporated here. A reminiscence feature permits up to a few drivers to save their private settings for the electrically folding mirrors.
Also new are the LED daylight hours going for walks lamps positioned under the spherical headlamps withinside the headlamp unit and the optionally available 18-inch bi-shade mild-alloy wheels.
Generally speaking, the outside layout of the G-Class serves to underline its robustness, feel of cause and terrific off-avenue capability. The facet view is characterized through its clean traces and vast, flat surfaces. The facet skirts, beltline and roof part are aligned in parallel. Similarly extreme and purposeful in its horizontal alignment is the rub strip at door-deal with height. Two huge home windows withinside the rear are a similarly feature of the lengthy-wheelbase Station Wagon.
Characteristic capabilities of the the front of the automobile are, above all, its special 3-louvre radiator grille providing a crucial 3-pointed star, the steeply raked A-pillars and the upright windscreen. The spherical headlamps characteristic modern-day bi-xenon technology, at the same time as the oval fog lamps incorporated into the the front bumper contain the cornering mild feature.
With its vast tune and special wheel arch lining, the G-Class shows a totally stable stance whilst visible from the rear. The rear fog lamp and reversing lamp are incorporated into the rear bumper. Access to the weight compartment is through a huge rear door, hinged at the left, which contains a spare wheel prominently installed at the outside.
The G 500 runs as widespread on 18-inch five-spoke mild-alloy wheels (265/60 R18 on 7.five J x 18 ET63). The widespread specification of the G 350 BlueTEC consists of sixteen-inch five-spoke mild-alloy wheels (265/70 R16 on 7.five J x sixteen ET63).
New alternatives for the outside of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class consist of the colors magnetite black, tenorite gray and indium gray. All in all, the paint variety accommodates 21 colours, of which 18 steel and 8 designo shades.
Interior - with introduced luxurious and comfort
A low window line and the raised seat role have continually ensured first rate all-spherical visibility withinside the G-Class - a bonus now no longer best in awkward terrain. The essential off-avenue person of the automobile bureaucracy a a success symbiosis with the excessive-grade luxurious appointments. Just a glance - and a touch - are sufficient to comprehend that best the greatest substances had been used here. Every unmarried element is a exceptional instance of meticulous handcraftsmanship.
Mercedes-Benz has now greater this excessive aesthetic widespread nevertheless similarly with the creation of a redesigned dashboard with a brand new device cluster and a very new centre console with centre dome. Many of the feature factors withinside the indoors have, however, been retained. These consist of the clutch deal with for the the front passenger, the switches for the 3 differential locks, that are simply placed withinside the driver's area of view and highlighted in chrome trim, and a redesigned selector lever withinside the centre console. When it is dark, ambient lights facilitates to create a fashionable atmosphere.
The cockpit is well laid out and functional in structure. The dashboard incorporates an instrument cluster with two sporty round dials plus, in the middle, a multifunction TFT display with a screen diagonal of 11.4 cm, which shows information from the on-board computer relating to the assistance systems.
The driver sits behind a new, electrically adjustable 4-spoke multifunction steering wheel with a rim trimmed in nappa leather and twelve function buttons. The steering wheel can be adjusted electrically and pivots automatically upwards in order to make getting in and out of the vehicle easier.
The centre dome, with vent openings in the middle and a free-standing central display, is slightly convex in shape and tapers away towards the base. Thematically grouped clusters of controls, with flawlessly designed and yet extremely functional switches, are intuitive to use. The COMAND Online system is controlled via the COMAND Controller on the front of the armrest.
The switches for the three differential locks have a high-quality chrome finish. The various controls are similarly new and high-quality in design.
The stylish detailing of the vehicle includes the generous use of high-quality trim. The G 350 BlueTEC is fitted as standard with anthracite poplar wood trim, while the G 350 features burr walnut wood trim (also available as an option for the G 350 BlueTEC). Optional alternatives include designo black piano lacquer, champagne white and light brown poplar silk matte trim (standard on the G63 AMG and G65 AMG), as well as AMG carbon-fibre trim including a designo wood/leather steering wheel with a designo black piano lacquer finish.
Seats with long-distance comfort
The seats in the G-Class are equipped, even in the standard specification, with numerous convenience functions. These include, for example, a memory function for the driver's seat, seat heating front and rear, and NECK-PRO high-comfort head restraints on the front seats. The seats also include electric lumbar support for both driver and front passenger, making them particularly comfortable on long journeys. Such ride comfort may be further enhanced with the addition of the optional Seat Comfort package, comprising multicontour and climatised seats.
In the standard-spec G 350 BlueTEC model, passengers take their places on high-quality, black, cloth-upholstered seats. Leather seats in grey, black and chestnut are available for the G 500 (also available as an option for the G 350 BlueTEC). The G63 AMG in the standard version offers a choice of eight colours of designo leather, including for the ruffled leather door centre panels (also as an option for the G 500 and the G 350 BlueTEC). The G65 AMG comes as standard with a designo Exclusive package that includes sports seats in two-tone design leather (choice of six colours) with diamond-patterned quilting for the seats and door panelling - this package is also available as an optional extra for the G63 AMG.
State-of-the-art infotainment with internet access
A visual as well as functional highlight that is fitted as standard in all versions of the G-Class is the new COMAND Online "Cockpit Management and Data System" with internet access and 6-disc DVD changer. This is a car radio and a CD/DVD player in one. Bluetooth telephony and simplified car telephone operation are included in the scope of this system. The free-standing, high‑resolution TFT colour display with a screen diagonal of 17.8 cm (800 x 480 pixels) is positioned above the centre dome. Positioning the monitor here minimises the extent to which the driver is distracted.
COMAND Online is operated via what is known as a "Controller", located just in front of the armrest on the centre console. This is the optimum ergonomic position for it, allowing easy and safe operation. The Controller is a very high-quality rotary pushbutton with a galvanised finish, and can be moved intuitively in eight directions. Functions can also be activated or confirmed by turning and pressing it. A user-friendly new control logic for the main menus as well as for the sub-menus, which open up step by step, enables drivers to leaf through the menus safely and in a targeted manner.
COMAND Online encompasses the subsequent features:
- FM radio dual tuner with segment range and a further RDS/TMC tuner for visitors statistics,
- entry-degree four x 25 W audio sign amplifier,
- six-disc DVD changer,
- net get right of entry to,
- incorporated navigation machine with map show inclusive of bird's eye view and 3-d map,
- incorporated tough disc for navigation information and further capabilities (e.g. track server),
- LINGUATRONIC voice-operated manage machine,
- off-street capabilities together with course recording or a compass feature also are constructed in, so permitting the driving force to locate his/her manner in difficult terrain. In this example the compass path is proven each at the show of the brand new tool cluster and at the COMAND screen.
COMAND Online additionally helps the subsequent components:
- Harman Kardon Logic7® surround sound machine,
- Media Interface,
- DAB receiver (Digital Audio Broadcast),
- TV receiver.
COMAND Online affords net get right of entry to, making it feasible to browse freely at the net and advantage short get right of entry to to the Mercedes-Benz Online carrier each time the auto is stationary. These crucial offerings consist of climate statistics and a POI seek thru Google. A course that has been formerly configured on a PC the usage of Google Maps also can be despatched to the auto on this manner.
The navigation feature in COMAND Online additionally has new capabilities to offer, together with a 3-d show with third-dimensional town views. Also new: routes protected may be recorded and repeated later, unique private locations may be saved or imported thru an SD card, plus 4 opportunity routes may be displayed at the navigation map, inclusive of a specifically low cost variant.
COMAND Online additionally contains virtual running commands for the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Owners can therefore browse at their comfort via this reference work, more desirable right here with unique graphics, at the COMAND show unit.
New on-line offerings for COMAND Online
Three Mercedes-Benz apps are to be had to clients to be used with COMAND Online:
- for calling up climate forecasts and maps,
- for a Local Search from Google, showing Google Street View images,
- plus Google Panoramio photos, with the choice of attempting to find locations withinside the widespread Google archives.
All COMAND Online customers additionally have get right of entry to to a Facebook app.
Further apps also are to be had: a loose information app, a Yelp app (withinside the US model best), and apps for proportion expenses and a automobile park finder:
- With the information app, the consumer is usually updated with what is occurring withinside the world. Sorted consistent with classes together with economic or sports activities information, it usually unearths the state-of-the-art information bulletins.
- The Yelp app (withinside the US model best) permits customers to look for eating places from their automobile, the usage of the social database stuffed with the aid of using the Yelp Community. The Yelp app gives a preference consistent with numerous eating place classes, inside which it's far feasible to look for tips near the modern-day position, on the vacation spot factor programmed into the navigation machine, or at every other unique location.
- The app which searches for automobile parks calls up the modern-day occupancy of multi-storey automobile parks in actual time, in addition to different statistics together with commencing instances and charges. The app elements information in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Once a appropriate parking possibility has been found, the driving force can begin the navigation to that vacation spot or name the cellphone range provided.
Individualisation: Something to in shape each taste
The G-Class has a excessive degree of specification even to start with, whilst an in depth variety of elective extras covers many extra requests for individualisation. On pinnacle of all this comes the complete designo variety, designed to assist fulfil even the maximum esoteric of requirements. Some recommendations from the designo 'Manufaktur', or hand-completing section, are even blanketed withinside the catalogue.
For the ones wishing to improve their G-Class further, various 5 excessive-cease system applications were prepare particularly for the G-Class.
The Chrome bundle consists of fashionable layout factors withinside the shape of extra chrome trim for each the indoors and exterior (widespread for the G63 AMG and G65 AMG models).
The bundle consists of:
- radiator grille with chrome inserts,
- chrome trim across the timber panel for the seat adjustment switches,
- chrome surrounds across the loudspeakers withinside the the front doors,
- shielding sill for load compartment with "Mercedes-Benz" or "AMG" lettering.
- The Exclusive bundle complements the excessive-elegance attraction of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class even further.
The bundle consists of:
- dashboard in leather-based,
- illuminated door sill panels,
- roof lining in alcantara anthracite,
- Seat Comfort bundle.
The Exterior Stainless Steel bundle makes for a glittering appearance.
The bundle consists of (widespread for the G63 AMG and G65 AMG models):
- jogging forums on each the left and right-hand sides,
- chrome steel spare wheel cowl with 3-d Mercedes-Benz star.
- The Sports bundle highlights the dynamic characteristics of the G-Class.
The bundle consists of:
- Exterior Stainless Steel bundle,
- AMG flared wheel arches withinside the automobile colour,
- 18-inch five-dual-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium grey (with 265/60 R 18 on 7.five J x 18 ET43),
- inserts in a striped anthracite finish,
- designo velour ground mats,
- sports activities exhaust machine (best to be had for the G 500),
- The designo Exclusive bundle (widespread for the G65 AMG, elective for the G63 AMG) complements exclusivity to the best degree.
The bundle consists of:
- the front AMG sports activities seats
- seat and door centre panels and rear door insert in designo leather-based with diamond-sample quilting effect,
- higher and decrease components of dashboard completed in black designo nappa leather-based,
- AMG badges at the the front-seat head restraints (V12 best),
- two-tone designo leather-based with diamond-sample quilting effect, at the side of six leather-based colorings and Seat Comfort bundle.
- Always at the cutting edge: The evolution of the G-Class
- 1979 - The G-Class is presented to the press for the first time in the south of France. Production gets underway with the 230 G, 240 GD, 280 GE and 300 GD models.
- 1980 - An enclosed van-type model with short or long wheelbase is added to the model range.
- 1981 - The first facelift. Automatic transmission, air conditioning, longitudinal bench seats for the load area, additional fuel tanks, a "tropical roof", protective headlamp grilles, a cable winch, a hardtop for the Cabriolet and a mechanical power take-off are all available as options for the 280 GE and 300 GD. A choice of five different paint colours has risen to 22.
- 1982 - The 230 G is fitted with a fuel injection system and becomes the 230 GE. Recaro seats, auxiliary heating, wide-base tyres on light-alloy wheels and wheel-arch flaring can be ordered as options.
- 1983 - The 230 GE is optionally available with a four-speed automatic transmission. The second facelift sees four new metallic colour shades and a five-speed transmission added to the list of equipment - as well as eight-inch tandem brake boosters and a new folding soft top for the Cabriolet.
- 1985 - A facelift adds differential locks, central locking, a rev counter and split rear bumper to the list of standard equipment.
- 1986 - A closed-loop catalytic converter becomes available for the 230 GE.
- 1987 - The fourth facelift brings power windows, an automatic aerial, a combined luggage cover and retaining net for the load area, and a larger fuel tank. Unveiling of the 250 GD with 62 kW/84 hp.
- 1988 - New six-cylinder diesel engine for the 300 GD. The driver's and front passenger's seats are fitted with armrests.
- 1989 - Launch of the new 463 model series with permanent four-wheel drive, and manually selectable ABS at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt.
- 1990 - The 463 model series is launched with the 230 GE, 300 GE, 250 GD and 300 GD. Customers can choose from three body variants.
- 1992 - The new 350 GD TURBODIESEL is unveiled. Cruise control, a stainless-steel spare wheel cover, side-mounted running boards, a luggage compartment cover and burr walnut trim are available as options.
- 1993 - Unveiling of the special model 500 GE. This offers a range of luxury appointments and is built in a limited edition of 500 units.
- 1994 - A second facelift for the 463 model series brings internally ventilated front disc brakes and a driver airbag.
- 1995 - All G-Class models are fitted with remote-controlled central locking and an immobiliser.
- 1996 - The Mercedes-Benz G-Class Cabriolet with electrohydraulic soft top is presented, along with the G 300 TURBODIESEL. Facelift and upgrade of standard equipment with a headlamp cleaning system, cruise control and a front passenger airbag.
- 1997 - The electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission becomes available for the G 300 TURBODIESEL and the G 320.The 290 GD TURBODIESEL with 88 kW/120 hp replaces the 290 GD with naturally aspirated diesel engine.
- 1998 - Mercedes-Benz launches the new G 500 with V8 engine (218 kW/296 hp).
- 1999 - The multifunction steering wheel is added to the list of standard equipment for the G-Class. Launch of the G55 AMG. Its V8 engine delivers 260 kW/354 hp. The Mercedes-Benz G 500 Guard appears in three different special-protection versions.
- 2000 - The new 2001 models are unveiled at the Paris Motor Show - with a new interior offering enhanced levels of comfort. A new V8 diesel engine (184 kW/250 hp) for the G 400 CDI. The V8 models are fitted with new light-alloy wheels, a chrome-plated radiator grille and bumpers in the vehicle colour.
- 2001 - The IAA in Frankfurt sees the unveiling of the G-Class with new dynamic control systems. These include the ESP® Stability Program, BAS Brake Assist and the new ETS Electronic Traction System.
- 2002 - The new G 270 CDI makes its debut powered by a 115-kW/156-hp five-cylinder diesel engine.
- 2003 - Indicator repeaters are integrated into the exterior mirrors of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
- 2004 - World premiere of the new G55 AMG with a supercharged V8 engine developing 350 kW/476 hp.
- 2006 - Introduction of the new G 320 CDI with diesel engine (165 kW/224 hp), fitted as standard with a diesel particulate filter.
- 2007 - Another facelift. LED-look tail lights. New instrument cluster with four analogue instruments mounted in chrome rings. New four-spoke multifunction steering wheel, modified centre console. COMAND APS as standard for the models G 500 and G55 AMG.
- 2008 - Revised radiator grille with three slats. New V8 engine with displacement and 5.5 litres and output of 388 hp (285 kW). Bluetooth hands-free system for mobile telephone.
- 2009 - New seats plus interior design modifications
- 2011 - V6 diesel engine in the G 350 BlueTEC with state-of-the-art BlueTEC technology and AdBlue® injection, delivering impressively low emissions and output of 155 kW (211 hp).
