Unimog, the all-terrain vehicle from Mercedes celebrating 80 years of tackling any terrain

The imposing Mercedes Unimog turns 80 and is ready to remain a key reference in the market for this type of vehicle. To do so, the German brand has teamed up with the tuner Hellgeth Engineering to create a showcase vehicle that adds a touch of luxury to this rugged all-terrain machine.

The showcase model is built on a Unimog U 2023, which features axles prepared to withstand harsh punishment, a flexible chassis and triple-locking differentials. This version has been developed to offer a spectacular look that stands out both on muddy terrain and in a hotel car park.

The most significant change this model has undergone is its engine. The OM 936 six-cylinder, 7.7-litre diesel block replaces the typical engine of this model, a 5.1-litre inline four-cylinder. The latter delivers 231 CV, while the new unit raises output to 300 CV. Mercedes states that this engine increases traction and improves power delivery, without giving up the model’s off-road capabilities.

Elegant yet powerful exterior

The bodywork strikes a balance that combines robustness with an elegant style, inspired by SUVs. Add-ons and upgrades have been incorporated, such as a redesigned grille, bumper and side steps. Together with customised panels on the body, this gives it a more striking appearance. The 20-inch beadlock wheels and the LED headlight package have given this specially designed version the modern image it needed.

As for the wing mirrors, they have been replaced with MirrorCam technology. This uses digital monitors, which prove very practical in rural and urban environments.

Interior of the Unimog

The four-seat cabin is upholstered in high-quality leather featuring contrast stitching. There are also leather floor mats, and the LED ambient lighting creates a mix of luxury and utility that turns the vehicle into a blend of a five-star hotel room and a high-mountain rescue truck. That said, we have no images of the interior, so we assume it will still look more like a truck than a limousine.

A versatile vehicle

The Mercedes Unimog was born in post-war Germany and has been used by various emergency services and other institutions that require a vehicle of this kind. Mercedes began manufacturing it in 1951 and, although it is not very well known, it is highly valued by those who use it for work.

This version is not just a display vehicle: it will become a test vehicle for one year, during which its owner will assess whether it can be turned into a production model and help take the model a step forward.