MBPassionBlog reports that the 2018 Mercedes G-Class (Mercedes W464) will debut at the NAIAS 2018 (Detroit Auto Show 2018) that opens January 14, which is fitting given that the U.S is one of its biggest markets. Bookings will begin in the same month, while deliveries are reportedly scheduled from May 2018.
The new G Class will continue in the G 500 and AMG G 63 petrol variants and base G 350d diesel version. Fans of the new G500 4x4^2 will be disappointed to know that the next gen G-Class will no longer be offered in such a variant. The range-topping V12-powered AMG G 65 will also not make the cut for series production, rather the outgoing G 65 will be built in limited numbers as the last hurrah. The report speculates that Mercedes will only build 65 examples of the outgoing AMG G 65 (W463) as the 'Final Edition'.
We can infer from spy shots of pre-production test mules that the 2018 Mercedes G-Class will retain the characteristic boxy styling, but with contemporary tweaks and a 10 cm wider track. Inside, the dashboard gets a single binnacle that houses a wide COMAND infotainment display and conventional dials flanking a large multi-info colour display (a full digital driver’s display could be optional) and a handlebar on the passenger side.
The report also suggests that Mercedes will extensively use aluminium and other lightweight materials to trim down the overall kerb weight for better fuel economy. It will also feature a new suspension setup and an electromechanical steering system.
[Source: MBPassion Blog , Images: WalkoART]
