Right-Hand Drive Diesel Returns After 23 Years

Its debut was 34 years ago. Originally conceived as a military vehicle for use by NATO forces and European countries, it was designed with specifications to withstand various missions in harsh environments such as rocky terrain, deserts, and snowy roads. The civilian version adapted from this military vehicle is the "Geländewagen," which has evolved into the current model, renamed the "G-Class".


Jeep and Range Rover share similar origins. The performance required for mission execution is naturally far beyond that of SUVs familiar to us. As a military vehicle, it was designed for "matters of life and death." What is demanded is not exaggerated, but absolute reliability and toughness.


The officially adopted military version andMercedes-Benzvehicles sold by the company are still produced by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria. Magna Steyr's predecessor was the firearms manufacturer Steyr. Primarily manufacturing rifles and growing its business during World War I, it later began producing automobiles. It became affiliated with Daimler and is now part of the Canadian Magna Group. Graz is its main production base, with a history spanning over 100 years.

What is noteworthy is that it is an independent company that mass-produces vehicles, albeit on a modest scale. Typically, independent corporations usually produce vehicles for a single manufacturer. For example, the former Kanto Auto Works (now Toyota Motor East Japan, Inc., an affiliate of Toyota) produced Toyota brand cars, and Yachiyo Industry produced only Honda cars. Vehicle production involves a great deal of know-how and proprietary information.


However, looking at the models currently produced by Magna Steyr, they extend beyond the "G-Class" to include Aston Martin's "Rapide", MINI's "Crossover", and Peugeot's "RCZ", demonstrating a remarkably wide range of manufacturers. Although it was canceled, Porsche also planned to produce the "Porsche" Boxster and "Boxster" Cayman at Magna Steyr. In the past, they also handled BMW's X3, Chrysler's European models, the Saab 9-3 Convertible, Volkswagen's Golf Country, and even the first-generation Fiat 500.Cayman" at Magna Steyr.BMW"X3", Chrysler's European models, the Saab 9-3 Convertible, Volkswagen's "Golf Country", and even the Fiat "500" (first generation).


Thus, while not mass-produced in huge quantities, Magna Steyr is a unique and valuable global entity that maintains its independence as a contract manufacturer for a significant number of vehicles. As a side note, the production facility for the Aston Martin Rapide, while part of Magna Steyr, is equipped with facilities adhering to Aston Martin's CI. Its exterior resembles Aston Martin's headquarters in Gaydon.

Few Cars Offer Such Rich Material for Enthusiasts

This is where the "G-Class" comes in. With its 34-year history, the G-Class has been entirely produced at Magna Steyr, totaling over 230,000 units. In September, the production facility for the G-Class was expanded, and the contract was extended for another seven years. Production of the G-Class is scheduled to continue here until 2019.


Because it was a robust military vehicle, it can meet today's stringent safety standards. Unlike the first-generation "Beetle" or "Mini," which have disappeared, it continues to be produced in its original form. Trivia abounds, such as the fact that its flat body and glass surfaces are ideal for ballistic treatment.—The G-Class is a vehicle rich in such trivia. Few cars today offer such a wealth of material for car enthusiasts.

Details of the Japanese specifications areReport on Domestic Launchdetailed in the report linked above, so we will omit them here. The "G 350 BlueTEC," the focus of this article, is a right-hand drive diesel model reintroduced to the Japanese market for the first time in 23 years. It is the first right-hand drive model and the first diesel-powered model of the G-Class to enter its second generation in Japan.


The powertrain is the same 3.0-liter V6 BlueTEC engine, already acclaimed in the "E-Class" and "M-Class."

The mechanism involves injecting an aqueous urea solution called "AdBlue" into the exhaust gas, which chemically reacts (reduction) to significantly reduce harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx).—Regardless of the technical details, its key selling points are its high environmental compatibility, meeting Japan's stringent diesel emission regulations, and its powerful performance.

A Finish That Rivals Modern Luxury Cars

The exterior, from any angle, is unmistakably the "G-Class" that has remained largely unchanged for 34 years. Hearing that it's also used for military purposes only enhances its rugged and tough image. However, the interior is pure 21st-centuryMercedes-Benz. The "G 350 BlueTEC" has also evolved into the modern version, familiar from other grades introduced since the summer of 2012.


The instrument panel and center console have been completely redesigned in the current model, featuring a 7-inch wide display and Mercedes' renowned COMAND system. Remarkably, it integrates seamlessly even in the right-hand drive configuration.


Even the "G-Class" can now easily connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth, enabling hands-free calls and effortless enjoyment of music downloaded to your phone or portable music player. For those familiar with smartphones, the connection process is intuitive, requiring no manual. Furthermore, with ambient lighting in the footwells and door trims, the image of a purely utilitarian off-roader is completely dispelled. It's remarkably modern.

Indeed, recent "G-Class" models have transformed into passenger car-like vehicles, with the "AMG versions" also existing. It's said that many celebrities worldwide are drawn to its tough styling and specifications, making it their beloved car. However, the G-Class's interior has evolved further. With its structure largely intact but almost entirely renewed, it now offers a finish that can be described as a luxury car.


Although it was once marketed in Japan as a "celebrity off-roader," many people reportedly found the harsh ride and spartan interior unbearable and moved on. But that's no longer the case. By simply requesting the optional package (a set including a sliding roof and leather seats with front and rear seat heaters) for the entry-level "G 350 BlueTEC" diesel, you get this design and equipment. There should be no complaints.

A Pleasantly Heavy Feel

However, entering this cabin requires a bit of getting used to and a knack. The doors open with a slightly old-fashioned round button switch, unlike modern cars, and it won't open properly unless you grip the lever firmly. After clearing the first hurdle and opening the door, there's also a trick to getting in. It truly feels like climbing into the driver's seat.

With a metallic "clunk" as the door closes, the unique seating position is what Land Rover calls the "command position." Your back straightens, and your posture naturally improves. The windshield is close, and the A-pillars are steeply raked, providing excellent visibility.


Many modern cars struggle with visibility because the distance from the driver's position to the windshield is long. You'll understand this if you consider why swimming goggles offer such clear vision. The turn signal lenses on the front corners of the fenders are also helpful for judging the vehicle's extremities.

The power seats and electrically adjustable steering wheel allow you to find your driving position quickly. Like other Mercedes models, the transmission is the 7G-TRONIC PLUS, but the shift lever is floor-mounted, not on the column. This is a deliberate design choice specific to the G-Class.


The shift lever is light due to its "shift-by-wire" system, but the steering, accelerator, and brakes all feel on the heavier side by today's standards. However, this tactile sensation, which makes you feel like you're truly operating the vehicle, is quite appealing. Aside from the lightness of the shift lever, which hints at the passage of time, the other controls are easily accepted by the body.

Its True Capabilities Should Shine on Unpaved Roads

Inside the "G 350 BlueTEC," you are rarely aware of the V6 diesel turbo. The engine sound is well-suppressed, completely eliminating any negative feelings associated with driving a truck.


Acceleration is brisk, as expected from an engine producing a maximum torque of 540 Nm (55.1 kgm). The acceleration feels surprisingly modern, far exceeding what you might imagine given its timeless styling and weight. It's fast enough to lead the pack on the highway's passing lane. In short, this driving performance is unlike its classic styling.


The ride comfort is also not bad. While the all-terrain tires designed for off-road use do pick up on road joints and small bumps, they don't significantly detract from the experience. The steering, even at speed, feels somewhat heavy, but its smooth operation is pleasing. This moderate weight and precise, non-reactive steering setup should prove effective off-road. The steering feel, using the recirculating ball system – the only one remaining at Mercedes-Benz – evokes memories of the old E-Class (W126).

Even when intentionally driving over a step with one wheel, as if simulating an off-road obstacle, the body remains completely rigid. It feels like the old Mercedes, once described as being "like being inside a vault." Strictly speaking, its numerical rigidity might not match modern monocoque bodies using high-tensile steel. However, its chassis, with its robust ladder frame, is, as we've said, military-grade. While most owners will likely never take their "G 350 BlueTEC" off-road, its true capabilities are undoubtedly ready to be unleashed on unpaved roads.


Perhaps due to the policy of "let's avoid taking the car to places where owners wouldn't normally drive it," off-road testing was not conducted.—However, during a photo shoot on a sandy beach, it demonstrated a confident performance. Given its 2.5-ton weight, caution was exercised, but the abundant grip felt remarkably reassuring throughout.

Its Enduring Appeal as "The" Car

Considering the extended production contract with Magna Steyr until 2019, it's safe to assume the "G-Class" will continue to be produced in its current form. While Japanese cars undergo full model changes every four years and European cars every six years, the G-Class's existence is truly precious. Its dual nature as a military-spec cross-country vehicle and a luxury model makes it unique. It is truly worthy of being called the King of Off-roaders withinMercedes-Benz.

The "G 350 BlueTEC" is the entry-level model in the G-Class lineup, and its price point under 10 million yen is highly strategic. This has the same impact as the entry-level "S-Class" being a hybrid. It's likely no coincidence that both entry-level models prioritize sustainability.


Of course, it doesn't quite reach the level of the other King, the "S-Class", but it is equipped with two advanced safety systems: Distronic Plus with an automatic stop function and Blind Spot Assist, which detects vehicles in the rear corners and alerts the driver. This ensures a sufficient level of modern safety.

I finally understood what the true "four-wheel drive enthusiasts" (not just SUV drivers) meant when they said, "The ultimate is a Geländewagen or a Range Rover." After driving the "G 350 BlueTEC," I truly get it. Indeed, the allure of this car, making you feel it's the one you'd want to drive in the end, is endless. Furthermore, a car with such individuality, performance, and history will likely never appear again.

Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC

Body Dimensions: Length 4,530 x Width 1,810 x Height 1,970 mm

Wheelbase: 2,850 mm

Tread (Front/Rear): 1,500 mm / 1,500 mm

Weight: 2,510 kg (2,530 kg with Luxury Package)

Ground Clearance: 235 mm

Engine: 2,986 cc V6 Turbo Diesel

Max Output: 155 kW (211 ps) / 3,400 rpm

Max Torque: 540 Nm (55.1 kgm) / 1,600-2,400 rpm

Transmission: 7-speed Automatic

Drivetrain: 4WD

Tires (Front/Rear): 265/60R18 / 265/60R18

Fuel Consumption (NEDC): 11.2 ℓ/100km (approx. 8.9 km/ℓ, reference for European model)

0-100 km/h Acceleration: 9.1 seconds (reference for European model)

Trunk Capacity: 480-2,250 liters

Price: 9.89 million yen



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