Mercedes kicks off production of the new G-Class in Graz

Mercedes has kept intact the legacy of the G-Class which, generation after generation, has been passed on and adapted to the new technologies of each era. Production began in Austria in 1979, specifically at the factory in Graz, where more than 300,000 units have been forged. It was also in this year that the star brand decided to unveil to the world its latest generation, which not only boasts important new features, but also keeps its off-road essence fully intact.

This G-Class, like its predecessors, will be built entirely at the Austrian plant in Graz, where many of its components will be made by hand. In this way, Mercedes has ensured that exclusivity and luxury remain two indispensable characteristics of its off-road icon par excellence, which offers a perfect balance between the classic and the modern.

39 years of history separate this latest generation of the G-Class from the first, and at the same time that has been long enough for some of the people responsible for its production to acquire unprecedented training and knowledge for its conception. The Graz plant wants to make sure that every G-Class leaving its doors keeps its tough character and reputation for being indestructible intact, and that is why the construction process will be very disciplined.

For now, two engines will be fitted under the bonnet of the new G-Class, which will bear the designations 500 and 63 AMG respectively. The more “moderate” version features a 4.0-litre supercharged V8 capable of delivering 422 CV of power. At the same time, it adopts more traditional lines that are closer to the styling of the first G-Classes of Mercedes.

If our tastes lean towards the more radical version, we will have to choose the Mercedes G-Class 63 AMG. The 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that powers other AMG-badged models makes its appearance in this toughest and most rugged off-roader, this time delivering 585 CV of power. The 63 AMG version has a more aggressive and sporty design, where the front grille adopts the now-iconic Panamericana design.

However, before long the star brand will add a diesel variant, which will cater to customers who are not looking for such a sporty character. The models on offer have a starting price of 127,450 euros for the G500 and 173,479 euros for the 63 AMG. Thanks to this new generation of the G-Class, the Graz factory will maintain its high production volume in the hope of continuing to surpass the more than 300,000 units already built.