By: Dave Abrahams
Stuttgart, Germany - Stuttgart's long-running G-Class 'Gelandewagen' has been given an interim upgrade ahead of a radical re-invention that’s reportedly due for release in 2017.
But this is far more than just a nip-and-tuck; the 2016 range includes the G500, with a new AMG four-litre, direct-injection biturbo V8, mapped in this application for 310kW from 5250-5500 revs and 610Nm from 2250-4750rpm - as well as an exclusive AMG edition.
Sadly, the G550 is not slated for release in South Africa.
The existing engine range has also been tweaked; the V6 turbodiesel G350d has been boosted from 155kW and 540Nm to 180kW and 600Nm, the V8 petrol G63 AMG is now rated at 420kW (up from 400) and 760Nm, and the 'big kahuna' V12 G65 AMG is now good for a quoted 463kW and 1000Nm.
Available only in left-hand drive and therefore not slated for SA release, it’s also the only G-Class variant that doesn't have an idle-stop function.
The Gelandewagen's signature permanent all-wheel drive, low-range transfer box and three differential locks - all switchable 'on the fly' - are still there, on a revised suspension set-up with damping optimised for reduced body roll and improved on-road ride comfort.
The standard-issue electronic stability programme has been re-calibrated for enhanced accuracy, while revised ABS and traction control reduce stopping distances under heavy braking.
The G500 is also optionally available with a new adaptive damping system offering Sport and Comfort modes - the idea being that Sport mode provides more agile on-road performance (and lot less body roll in fast cornering) while Comfort mode gives you maximum suspension travel for serious off-roading.
COSMETICS
The 2015 G350d and G500 also sport restyled bumpers front and rear, while AMG-style body-colour wheel-arch flares are now standard on both, as are 18-inch five-spoke alloy rims, while the AMGs run 20-inch hoops.
Inside, there's a new 'two-tube' instrument cluster with a 115mm multifunction display.
A new colour package for the AMG variants offers a choice of five special metallic colours - green, orange, yellow and two very different shades of red. In each case the roof, mirrors, both bumpers, wheel arch extensions and the ring around the spare wheel cover are finished in gloss black, while the interior topstitching matches the paint.
There's also an exclusive Edition 463 model, based on either the G63 or G65 (your choice) with a two-tone instrument panel, two-tone leather upholstery with contrast stitching and carbon-look leather on the side bolsters.
Special trim includes a stainless-steel bash-plate, go-fast side stripes, a black aluminium-look insert in the protective strips and special 21-inch forged-alloy rims.
The 2016 G-Class will be available to order in Europe from the middle of this year, and is expected to reach South Africa early in 2016.