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Thursday, February 16, 2012

SPY: A pair of updated 2012 G-Class test prototyes snagged in Northern Scandinavia

If the G-Class will eventually exit the automotive stage, Mercedes-Benz thinks it needs to do in great style, so the Germans are already prepping an important update for the popular 4x4 vehicle. In order to keep the car contemporary up to 2015 when a phase-out is possible, the Gelandewagen is currently undergoing a styling and technical revamp treatment.


While changes on the design department are subtle and include minor visual tweaks to headlights, tail lamps, exterior mirrors, radiator grille and front end/rear end bumpers, the upgrades to the powertrain and equipment are set to maintain the G-Class as a powerful offroader on the market.

It goes without saying all G-Class models come with 4MATIC traction as standard device. New and efficient engines are expected to power the car: the G 350 BlueTEC is here to stay, but we guess that along the G 300 CDI with 184 hp, Mercedes-Benz could also offer a G 350 CDI version rated at 265 hp. Moreover, a G 350 BlueEFFICIENCY equipped with the 3.5-litre direct-injection V6 capable of 306 hp is also possible. The range-topping G 500 variant will receive company's 4.7-litre biturbo V8 unit reaching 435 hp of peak output and 700 Nm of maximum torque.

Moving on to the AMG models, the G 55 AMG (or G 63 AMG ??) will shift into a new generation with the addition of the new 5.5-litre twinturbocharged V8 that produces 544 hp - yet, rumors claim the 6.3-litre aspirated V8 engine with over 500 hp is also likely to power the monster. If this was not enough, then prepare yourselves for the introduction of the limited edition G 65 AMG boasting no less than 630 hp out of the furious 6.0-litre V12 unit.

The interior of the new G-Class is bound to get an improved look with new, more premium appointments. The restyled dashboard includes a new instrument cluster, a CLS-esque steering wheel, a revised center console and up-to-date climate control and COMAND infotainment system, probably available with internet capability as well. The entire lineup of security and assistance gimmicks Mercedes-Benz have premiered recently will also find their way onto the new G-Class. Looking at the latest spy shots, we think the Gelandewagen is ready for a Geneva debut, even though New York or Beijing motor shows sound more reasonable.








Image Credits: Motor Authority

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