Minor styling tweaks, mild hybrid engines and new suspension setup sum up most of the updates on the G-Class SUV.
The Mercedes G-Class line-up has received a mid-life update, the second for this generation of the SUV. The refreshed G-Class now gets mild hybrid engine options across the line-up along with other minor changes.
- Standard G-Class facelift gets minor power bump for all engines
- AMG G63 gets same power but new suspension setup
- EQG EV SUV coming later this year
Mercedes G-Class facelift: powertrain highlights
The G-Class in its current gen was unveiled back in 2018 and has now received tweaks to its entire line-up. The G-Class EV, likely to be called the EQG upon debut, is also expected to see light of day later this year.
The entry-level model will continue to use a 3.0-litre straight-six diesel, although it is now mated to a 48V mild hybrid integrated starter generator (ISG). That lifts power 357hp, while substantially boosting torque to 750Nm – which is why it has been rebadged from G400d to G450d. The G500 will continue to be offered in some markets, with its 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line petrol unit now lifted to 436hp.
Mercedes G-Class facelift: exterior highlights
There are subtle design changes to the G-Class. There is a new front bumper and radiator grille, while the A-pillars have been subtly rounded off and a new lip added to the leading edge of the windscreen. The latter two changes are designed to improve aerodynamic efficiency and reduce interior noise, and were inspired by developments for the electric version. Through those and other minor developments, Mäntele claims the drag coefficient of the G-Class has been reduced from 0.53 to 0.48.
The front-facing camera has now been mounted lower in the front bumper so that it offers better visibility of obstacles using a new ‘transparent bonnet’ view – a switch that required Mercedes to fit a small auto-deploying washer jet to ensure the camera stayed clean.
Mercedes G-Class facelift: interior highlights
Inside, the G-Class gains the same version of the MBUX infotainment system that sees duty on the GLS facelift – which means it gets a touchscreen for the first time – along with temperature-controlled cup holders and a wireless mobile charger. In another nod to practicality, the G-Class now features keyless entry for the first time; while a seemingly minor tweak, it required substantial work to install without redesigning the door handle itself.
The off-road ‘control centre’ in the middle of the dashboard has also been revamped to give easier access to key functions.
Mercedes G-Class facelift: off-road tech
What hasn’t changed is the off-road capability of the model: it has ground clearance of 229mm, a fording depth of 70cm, a 31 degree angle of approach and the ability to remain stable on inclines of up to 35 degrees.
Mercedes-AMG G63 facelift gets updates too
The hot Mercedes-AMG G63 has been revamped with extra power and an advanced new active suspension system that is designed to improve both its on- and off-road performance. Just like the standard G-Class, the facelift also adds 48-volt mild-hybrid tech the AMG G63’s hand-built 4.0-liter V8, but it produces 585hp which is same as before. Also the AMG G 63 now gets optional AMG Active Ride Control, Mercedes’ hydraulic, anti-rollbar-free suspension tech, that made its debut on the AMG SL 63.
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