2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Release Date, Specs News: Overhauled SUV to Debut in Detroit Early Next Year
The new Mercedes-Benz G-Class will reportedly make its official debut early next year. The event is highly anticipated as this will be the first redesign for the off-road SUV since its launch in 1979.
According to Drive, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class will break cover at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit in January 2018. The publication noted that Mercedes-Benz is already putting final touches after completely overhauling the vehicle.
The next-generation G-Class will reportedly use aluminum rather than steel for the body structure, which translates to a significant weight loss and an increase in torsional rigidity. Despite being lighter, it will have a wider stance and a more spacious cabin.
The 2019 G-Class is said to come with new components, specifically in the front suspension, steering and damping. The overhauled off-road SUV is also expected to feature new digital instruments and infotainment displays similar to the E-Class family. There will be support for a wide array of driver assistance systems as well.
Under the hood, the new G-Class is said to benefit from a new range of engines including a 4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that will deliver about 400 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque for the G500 model and up to 600 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque for the G63 model. Overall, the powertrains are expected to boost fuel economy and performance.
Despite all these new additions, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class will reportedly retain its iconic boxy and rugged exterior design. It will also deliver enhanced off-road functionalities with increases in water fording depth, wheel travel and departure angles. There will also be three differential locks, low range gearing, a four-wheel drive system and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
NAIAS 2018 is scheduled to take place from Jan. 14 to 29, 2018. Official details for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class could be announced in the weeks leading up to the annual auto show in Detroit.