The New Mercedes 'G' Arrives | Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz G-Class | メルセデス・ベンツ Gクラス

Mercedes' New "G" Arrives

Since its debut in 1979, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has maintained its styling with almost no changes and continues to boast enduring popularity even 33 years after its release. Following the announcement of its minor facelift in its home country, it has finally made its first landing in Japan and sales have begun.

Text by AKIZUKI Shinichiro (OPENERS)

Japanese Models Include "G550," "G63 AMG," and "G65 AMG"

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, also on OPENERS,April Home Country Announcementfollowed by,May Beijing Motor Show, and further,Tatsuya Kujima's Overseas Test Drive Impression of the "G63 AMG"we have continuously delivered the latest information on this highly anticipated model. With this update, the Japanese lineup now consists of three models: the "G550," "G63 AMG," and "G65 AMG."

The most significant changes this time are to the interior. The design of the instrument panel and center console has been largely revamped, with a liquid crystal panel around the meters and a 7-inch wide display installed in the center of the dashboard top. The state-of-the-art in-car telematics system "COMAND system," equipped with a controller for easy operation, allows for integration of the HDD navigation system and internet search by connecting to a mobile phone, as well as Bluetooth audio and hands-free calling, marking a leap towards modernization. On the exterior, new design side mirrors and LED daytime running lights are standard on all models, but the rugged, traditional styling remains unchanged. The powertrain also inherits the previous model's 5.5-liter V8 engine, delivering a maximum output of 285 kW (387 hp) at 5,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 530 Nm at 2,800-4,800 rpm.

Regarding safety equipment, Mercedes-Benz's latest technologies are available as options, including "Blind Spot Assist," which alerts the driver to vehicles in the rear blind spot via a small indicator on the side mirror, the cruise control system "Distronic Plus," and "Parktronic Plus" for parking assistance.

For OPENERS readers, the newly introduced AMG models, the "G63 AMG" and "G65 AMG," are particularly noteworthy. In addition to the newly designed radiator grille, the front bumper with large air intakes, 20-inch alloy wheels, and red brake calipers have been adopted, further enhancing the sense of exclusivity. The "G63 AMG" is powered by a 5.5-liter V8 twin-turbo engine with a maximum output of 400 kW (544 hp) at 5,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 760 Nm at 2,000-5,000 rpm. The top-of-the-line "G65 AMG" features a 6.0-liter V12 engine, delivering a maximum output of 450 kW (612 hp) at 4,300-5,600 rpm and a maximum torque of 1,000 Nm at 2,300-4,300 rpm, specs befitting the AMG name.

The prices announced are 13.4 million yen for the "G500," 17.8 million yen for the "G63 AMG," and 32.5 million yen for the "G65 AMG," which is built to order. Sales begin today through the official Mercedes-Benz dealer network nationwide. The "G-Class," loved across generations then and now, its charm is eternal!? The answer, of course, is a privilege only its owners can know.

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