Detroit 2018: New Mercedes-Benz G-Class Debut On January 15

Mercedes-Benz has officially confirmed the debut of the new generation of the iconic G-Class on January 15, 2018. The announcement took place via a YouTube video that teased the launched date with a reference to the original G-Class and the tag line "DNA Lives On". The debut will take place at the Detroit auto show on the second press day and will be possibly the most anticipated debut there. While many would have expected the G-Class to evolve into a more rounded and more mass product, if the spy shots and sketches are anything to go by, Mercedes-Benz has stayed true to form and kept the iconic boxy design on the car albeit with a bit more modern touches.

(Mercedes Benz G Class Youtube Teaser) (Source: YouTube)

The new G-Class will be available globally with standard petrol and diesel engine options along with the Los Angeles favourite G63 and G65 versions. Just like the previous gen, this new G-Class is also likely to spawn insane limited edition models like the G63 6x6, the G500 4x4 and the ultra luxurious G650 Landaulet. The new G-Class will get a more modern underpinning with a new independent front suspension and a new rear suspension that has had completely revised geometry.

(New Mercedes Benz G Class Spy picture)

The new G-Class will also finally get a better steering setup with the old reciprocating ball steering system being replaced by a more modern and infinitely more usable electro-mechanical rack and pinion setup. This will be one of the biggest improvement on the new G-Class along with the fact that the new gen car will be considerably lighter than its predecessor making it a much better vehicle to drive on a daily basis as compared to a shouty lifestyle vehicle that the current gen G-Class (especially the AMG) has become.

(New Mercedes Benz G Class will debut on Jan 15, 2018)

Another big improvement on the G-Class will undoubtedly be the new interior setup. The old school single screen layout will most likely be ditched for the twin large screens like the ones found on the S-Class / E-Class (internationally). The G-Class will also be a lot more spacious as compared to its predecessor which was particularly cramped in the rear. The new G-Class will also have a longer wheelbase which will give it just a whole lot more room for more comfortable seating and of course, a larger boot.

Will it come to India? While the standard versions with the 6-cylinder diesel might not make the cut for India, you can be rest assured that the likes of the fire breathing G63 will have a fair few takers in the country purely due to its sheer road presence and bullying capabilities! And yes, this is most certainly a car I look forward to driving!

Spy Pic Source: Motor1