It has been twenty six years since the original Mercedes Benz G-Class wagon ceased selling in Australia. Mercedes Benz have just re-launched the classic 4x4 with 2011 Mercedes Benz G-Class wagon coming back down under for a second try. Technically speaking a lot has changed in those twenty six years since its first assault on the Aussie market but the one thing that hasn’t changed is the unique styling.
Having just signed a contract to supply the Australian Defence Force to supply 1200 Mercedes Benz G-Class wagons over three years, Mercedes Benz thought it was the perfect time to reintroduce the German icon.
It is fair to say Mercedes Benz G-Class is no shrinking violet, it has a look that will polarise opinions - you’ll either love it or hate it. However inside the Mercedes Benz G-Class you could be sitting in the latest M-Class or GL-Class.
Australian buyers will have the choice of two Mercedes Benz G-Class’s, entry is via the G 350 BlueTEC priced from $161,680 (MLP) whilst those looking for an extra bit of street cred can buy a G 55 AMG for $217,230(MLP).
The Mercedes Benz G 350 BlueTEC gets the same 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel as the recently launched S-Class 350 BlueTEC. The 6-cylinder turbo diesel produces 155 kW at 3400rom, and a peak torque of 540Nm between 1600 and 2400 rpm.
Coupled with a 7 speed automatic transmission the engine allow the 2.5 tonne 4x4 to go a standing start to 100kmh in 9.9 seconds all the way up to maximum speed of 175kmh Fuel consumption is quoted at 11.2 litres per 100kms.
Simply putting it the G 55 AMG is awesome. The 5.5 litre supercharged V8 produces 373kW at 6100rpm and a peak torque of 700Nm between 2750 and 400rpm. The 5 speed automatic hurtles the G 55 AMG from 0 to 100kmh in only 5.5 seconds. Whilst maximum speed is electronic limited to 210kmh, fuel consumption is 15.5 litres per 100kms on the combined cycle.
The Mercedes Benz G-Class interior is pure Mercedes Benz. Getting inside the cabin requires a little effort but the effort is rewarded with a spacious feel and commanding driving position.
For such a serious off road vehicle the interior is finished to the usual high level expected from a Mercedes Benz. Front passenger can find their perfect seating position via the electric adjustable and heated seats. Whilst rear passengers all so receive leather seats with enough room for 3 adults, however on a long journey it may become a little squashy.
The steering wheel is adjustable for rake and reach, the wheels also has buttons for controlling the audio command centre and trip computer.
The centre console has a Bluetooth and MP3-enabled six-disc CD system with a five-inch colour monitor and keypad for entering telephone numbers.
Boot space is large enough but can be easily doubled by lowering the 60/40 split rear seats. It would be nice to see at 3rd row of seats in the back but at this stage there is no plan to offer them.
We had the opportunity to sample the Mercedes Benz G-Class both on and off road during the media launch day and the Mercedes Benz G-Class impressed us on both.
The G-class wagon has permanent all-wheel drive, electronically controlled traction system 4ETS, ESP, a 'low-range' gearbox and three selectable differential locks, the G-Class can really handle the going when the going gets off road. Yet put the beast back on the black stuff and you get the handling and safety expected of a Mercedes Benz.
If we had the money to buy a Mercedes Benz G-Class we would. Saying that, we think it might be a little bit expensive for most folk.
The G-Glass is a decent car to drive on road but an absolute beast off road.
According to Mercedes Benz the G-Class has no competition but if you have a Mercedes Benz G-Class on your shopping list then make sure you also check out the Range Rover Vouge Autobiography 5.0litre V8 and the Range Rover Vouge Autobiography Turbo Diesel V8.
