Photo: SB-Medien
Jon Snow told us, but we didn't listen. The first snows began falling over Europe this week and with that we can talk about winter testing. Because why else would you buy a G-Wagon instead of a BMW X5?
Dealing with the rough stuff is kind of the specialty of the G-Wagon, and we're not just talking about the 6x6. As ridiculous as designing a $100,000 truck that can go to the Arctic is, that's what Daimler's customers want.
As Leo put it when he won that Oscar, climate change is real, so there's not going to be much actual Winter Testing going on. We remember how bad it was last year, when even Northern Scandinavia was thawed out by early Spring.
So why does Mercedes needs to develop a brand new G-Wagon? Well, even though they've made an AMG version, it still doesn't corner much better than something from 40 years ago, certainly not like something worth all that money.
Mercedes engineers are probably the best in the world at tuning big V8 engines. But because the twin-turbo 4.0L can do an even better job than the old 6.2-liter, every other flaw the SUV has is exacerbated.
Unlike the Range Rover, the G-Class will continue to use a frame. But a wider chassis and new suspension will add stability and comfort. It should also be lighter than before. But by starting with a clean piece of paper rather than an army truck, Mercedes can install a high-tech electrical system, smart suspension, safety systems, and a state-of-the-art cabin.
We expect the next-gen G-monster to be unveiled in late 2017 and to appear in showrooms in early 2018. You might have to pay more for the basic G550, but it will also be much better.
Later on, the V12-powere G65 might make a comeback, but it's not important regarding volume. What is important is a new diesel engine for the Europeans. It's called OM 642, and it's an inline-6, not a V6. This unit will deliver at least 313 horsepower, so it's a good match for all you twin-turbo fans who enjoy the Audi SQ5 TDI or the BMW X5 40d.
As Leo put it when he won that Oscar, climate change is real, so there's not going to be much actual Winter Testing going on. We remember how bad it was last year, when even Northern Scandinavia was thawed out by early Spring.
So why does Mercedes needs to develop a brand new G-Wagon? Well, even though they've made an AMG version, it still doesn't corner much better than something from 40 years ago, certainly not like something worth all that money.
Mercedes engineers are probably the best in the world at tuning big V8 engines. But because the twin-turbo 4.0L can do an even better job than the old 6.2-liter, every other flaw the SUV has is exacerbated.
Unlike the Range Rover, the G-Class will continue to use a frame. But a wider chassis and new suspension will add stability and comfort. It should also be lighter than before. But by starting with a clean piece of paper rather than an army truck, Mercedes can install a high-tech electrical system, smart suspension, safety systems, and a state-of-the-art cabin.
We expect the next-gen G-monster to be unveiled in late 2017 and to appear in showrooms in early 2018. You might have to pay more for the basic G550, but it will also be much better.
Later on, the V12-powere G65 might make a comeback, but it's not important regarding volume. What is important is a new diesel engine for the Europeans. It's called OM 642, and it's an inline-6, not a V6. This unit will deliver at least 313 horsepower, so it's a good match for all you twin-turbo fans who enjoy the Audi SQ5 TDI or the BMW X5 40d.
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