Photographers that have captured spy pictures of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class say that while it hasn’t changed that much in appearance, it is visibly wider than the current model. Giveaway clues include a wider windscreen, bonnet and grille, and different doors.
The new model, aka the G-Wagen, gets its most significant makeover since the original appeared in 1979, mostly because of stricter emissions regulations.
While it is a reported 100mm wider and perhaps slightly longer, it is expected to lose about 200kg in weight, courtesy of more aluminum and high-strength steels in the body and chassis.
Its V8 and V12 petrol engines are likely to remain, but the current V6 diesel in the G350 d will be replaced by the Euro 6-compliant 3.0-litre six-cylinder in the E-Class.
The camouflaged G-Wagen pictured in snowfields on this page is said to be testing the E-Class engine, which delivers more power and torque than the unit in the existing G350 d. Another petrol engine option in some markets might be the new straight-six that Mercedes-Benz has confirmed is under testing.
The wider stance of the 2018 G-Wagen is apparently there for a two-fold purpose: provide more cabin space and accommodate a revised suspension system for improved stability on- and off-road.
The live front and rear axles with coil springs are expected to be carried over, although there has been talk of an independent front on the basis of Mercedes-AMG variants representing 50 per cent of all G-Wagen sales worldwide.
Unlikely, say those in the know. Expect solid coil-sprung front and rear axles with permanent four-wheel-drive, a low-range transfer case for the seven-speed gearbox, and three differential locks. Expect also the ride height to remain at 23.5cm.
Most changes will come inside with the latest Mercedes-Benz technology, including new driver-assist features, improved electro-hydraulic steering, and an advanced infotainment system.
The recirculating ball steering in the current G-Wagen was designed to avoid kickback off-road, but it is too heavy and slow for day-to-day use on-road, expecially with the instant throttle response of the G55 AMG variant.