Mercedes G-Class Gets Major Upgrades: Electric Powertrains And Advanced Technology

Released this week, the redesigned Mercedes G-Class (also called the G-Wagen) has in store electric powertrains and other significant upgrades. Substituting a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six for the G550's V8 engine results in a power output of 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, thanks to the engine's integrated starter generator.

The new G550 has more power than the old V8, which had 416 hp and 450 lb-ft. However, it has slightly less torque, though there is still plenty, and you can make the most of it with the revised 9-speed automatic transmission, three diff locks, and low range function.

The updated G63, on the other hand, boasts even greater off-road and on-road performance. It shares the G550's 20-horsepower ISG, but this time it's paired with a 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 to push the boxy SUV to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, which is 1.1 seconds quicker than the 550. The ISG asserts that it will enhance low-end responsiveness and perhaps lead to better fuel efficiency, but not quite on par with the G550's transition from eight to six cylinders.

A new Active Ride control suspension is available as an option for the G-Wagen G63 alone. Its hydraulic roll control hardware eliminates the need for conventional anti-roll bars, enhancing wheel articulation on uneven terrain and conventional asphalt handling. In addition to the Offroad Cockpit digital control arrangement, G550 buyers also get the EQE SUV's transparent hood function, which employs underbody cameras to let the driver view hazards right underneath the vehicle as if the hood weren't there.

On the inside, it's the infotainment system's touchscreen capability. Two 11.6-inch touchscreens are part of an upscale rear-seat media system, which also has temperature control for the cupholders and wireless charging for the phone. Mercedes has also expanded the Manufaktur customization program for those who are not entirely satisfied with how the new G-Class looks. The carmaker has not yet announced pricing.

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