Style -- 15 days ago
Mercedes-Benz, after three decades off, have brought back the off-roading icon donned by many would be explorers over the years. Mercedes-Benz World is to be thanked for this, which is importing the updated model of Steyr-Puch’s classic G-class into the UK. For the first time a diesel engine option has been added to the G Class and coupled with the right hand drive option, we are now spoiled for choice. No doubt the useful combo will result in plenty of sitings of the new 4×4 Gelaendewagen in many a driveway.
When it comes to comparing the tech spec of the new model with the old classic, there is simply no question of both leaps in benefit and performance. You get a full Comand sat-nav system as standard as well as heated leather seats and even ISOFIX child seat anchorages, while rear DVD screens, a heated steering wheel and a TV tuner are all waiting on the options list. However the G-class’s actual driving experience remains confusingly old tech. 18-inch alloy wheels with 60-profile winter tyres combined with the G-class’s rough and ready “trailing link and panhard rod” suspension deliver an alarmingly turbulent ride on standard urban roads. Performance is as expected and what you’d want, given the G-class’s approximation of body control and lack of steering precision, with a 0-62mph time of 9.1sec and a 109mph top speed.
This however, is only the 207bhp version – there’s also a 500bhp, 5.5-litre V8 AMG model available which manages 0-62mph in 5.5sec and goes on to what would likely be a terrifying 130mph top speed. None of which would matter much if you were buying the G-class for its considerable off-road credentials. This car will trawl 600cm of standing water – more than a Land Rover Defender – and has approach and departure angles to humble a Toyota Land Cruiser. There are three separate differential locks for peerless traction in slippery conditions, and a low-range transfer case for the seven-speed gear box.
Compromised only by its prevalent lack of comfort, the G-Class has retained its incredible reputation of unstoppable reliability and robustness, and if you regularly venture off the beaten track, you might just forgive the car for its ‘characterful’ on-road ride and handling.
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