Mercedes
has revealed the all-new 2019 Mercedes-Benz G550 Geländewagen a.k.a
G-wagon at the detroit auto show and it marks the rebirth of an
important automotive icon, and it doesn’t disappoint.
The iconic
Mercedes-Benz G-Class off-roader has been around since 1979 and
has never had a major redesign in all that time,until now.
Retaining
the SUV’s signature boxy shape,the G-Class grows in every dimension for
2019. It’s 2.1 inches longer than before, 4.8 inches wider, and sits on
a 1.6-inch longer wheelbase, but despite this, the 2019 G is around 375
lbs lighter than its predecessor. That’s thanks to increased use of
high- and ultra-high-strength steel, and aluminum for the hood, doors,
and fenders.
It
also features a multifunction steering wheel with touch-sensitive
controls for the infotainment system, metallic accents, and wood or
carbon fiber trim.
An optional Active Multi-contour Seat Package adds
additional power adjustment, massage, ventilation, and rapid heating
functions.
Air chambers within the bolsters inflate and deflate
automatically, helping to keep people secure and supported. Mercedes
says these seats are recommended by the German spinal health
organization Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.
The $130,532 SUV comes
with analogue gauges, but these can be replaced with a 12.3-inch digital
instrument cluster to complement the 12.3-inch infotainment display.
Thanks to a 1.6-inch longer wheelbase and repositioned rear seats, rear
passengers have an extra six inches of legroom.
Four
dynamic select driving modes are available: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and
Individual. The SUV’s G-Mode activates if the driver engages
4-wheel-drive Low or one of the three differential locks. The G-Mode
setting adjusts throttle response, steering sensitivity, and the
transmission for maximum off-roading capability
The new 2019
Mercedes-Benz G550 is equipped with a carryover turbocharged 4.0-liter
V8 engine making 416 horsepower and 450 lb.-ft. of torque between 2,000
rpm and 4,750 rpm. Performance, however, is no doubt improved because it
is paired with a more responsive and quicker shifting 9-speed automatic
transmission.
The All-New Mercedes G-Class will be launched in Germany in June and will go on sale in late 2018.