A rock-steady debut for the new Mercedes-Benz G-Class in Detroit

At the Detroit Motor Show last night, the new G-Class was unveiled in a grand way. Along with pyrotechnics and an example atop a ‘mountain’, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Mercedes-Benz boss Dieter Zetsche toasted the occasion on stage with a good old-fashioned shot of Schnapps — when in Detroit, right?

Smoke and mirrors

The showmanship may have been a strategic tactic to distract the public from the fact that the new G-Wagen looks awfully similar to its predecessor. But, to be honest, we’d be upset if Mercedes tampered with its famous and iconic shape, and fortunately, the exposed spare wheel, prominent indicator lights, protective exterior strips, and imposing wheel arches and bumpers are all still intact. The differences lie in the new technology incorporated to make it safer, more efficient, and more comfortable. The 170kg lighter, 53mm longer, and 121mm wider SUV now features new LED lights; an improved, 100% waterproof, rearview camera; an updated dashboard; massaging, heating, and cooling seats; a twin-turbo, 4.0-litre V8; nine-speed automatic gearbox; electric steering; and adaptive dampers. The new SUV is expected to be released in the UK in August 2018, but the price has yet to be confirmed, with speculation ranging from 95,000 to 140,000 GBP.

Photos: Mercedes-Benz