Detroit 2018: The All-New Mercedes-Benz G-Class Still Looks The Same On The Outside

With just a couple of weeks to go before it makes its debut at the Detroit Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz has shed some light on some of the exterior and technical details of the 2019 G-Class, a week after it revealed the SUV’s interior.

Unlike the cabin that has gone through a complete makeover, the exterior design of the G-Class has not changed, although we expect some minor tweaks to differentiate it from the existing version.

According to Mercedes-Benz, the primary goal of development was to make the new G-Class even more effective off-road. So, the proven ladder- type frame and the rigid rear axle have been carried over.

The axle, which has been raised to achieve higher ground clearance, is complemented by an updated double-wishbone suspension which is a result of collaboration between Mercedes-Benz G GmbH and Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Available for the first time will be a ‘G-Mode’ which will be activated automatically when one of the three differential locks has been activated.

What this mode does is that it adapts the adjustable damping of the chassis, the steering, and also the accelerator in order to avoid unnecessary gearshifts and ensuring maximum traction during off-roading.

Also new is the 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic gearbox which has been specifically adapted for off-roading. It is said that the developers have reduced the shift and response times of the transmission using dedicated software, resulting in wider transmission ratio which translates to more comfort at low engine speeds and lower fuel consumption.

Last but not least, we have a range of off-roading goodies like the permanent all-wheel drive system, a 360-degree camera, a compass, optional 18-inch all-terrain tires, and also indicators for angles, gradient and ride height.

Still camouflaged, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class will be premiering in less than two weeks in Detroit, so watch this space for more details.