Every G-Class gets evaluated at Schöckl – the 1 445 metre high local mountain near the Austrian city of Graz that Mercedes-Benz uses as a test track. The 5.6 km route includes gradients of up to 60 percent and lateral inclinations of up to 40 percent.
During the development stage, a “G” has to endure 2 000 strenuous kilometres on this very demanding course. According the the German marque, the new G-Class “masters the route with noticeably more control and comfort” than its predecessor.
Mercedes-Benz has said that the vehicle remains a true G-Class thanks to the standard ladder-type frame. The suspension is independent with double-wishbone front axle in combination with a rigid rear axle.
The approach and departure angles of the new 2019 G-Class are 31° and 30° respectively and the maximum fording depth is 70cm. The breakover angle is 26° while the ground clearance between the axles is 241mm. A new 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission will be paired with low-range and three lockable differentials.
The new 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is said to have reduced shift and response times. The wide transmission ratio offers quieter and more comfortable driving, especially at low engine speeds, simultaneously contributing to reduced fuel consumption.
All-round visibility from a bird’s-eye view is possible thanks to the optional 360° camera, the reversing camera and three further cameras. This means that obstacles located below the window line or in front of the vehicle such as a hill crest do not remain hidden. The information is presented in full HD with a choice of different views on the multimedia system’s display. Dynamic guide lines show the road and the width of the G-Class. In addition, the off-road screen specially designed for the G-Class also displays data such as height, gradient, angle, compass, steering angle and activated differential locks.
