autoevolution
 

2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Shows Up in German Traffic, Looks Massive

While 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class customers still have to wait before taking delivery of their road tanks, the first all-new Gelandewagen since the 1979 original can already be seen on the street.
2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Shows Up in German Traffic 7 photos
Photo: walkoart/YouTube
2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Shows Up in German Traffic2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Shows Up in German Traffic2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Shows Up in German Traffic2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Shows Up in German Traffic2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Shows Up in German Traffic2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Shows Up in German Traffic
We are, of course, talking about manufacturer cars, with the vehicles seen in the piece of footage at the bottom of the page showing the massive stance of the new G-Class in German traffic.

Cool, but about the offroading bits?

As figure fans among you know by now, the generation change has seen the maximum wading depth of the G-Class jumping from 23.7 to 27.6 inches. While this was possible thanks to a secondary air intake mounted at headlamp level (this can be considered a hidden snorkel), one can't help but wonder about the mechanical changes that can support this boost.

Many purists have complained about the front suspension of the 2019 G-Class switching from a rigid front axle to an independent setup. However, given the six-figure price tag of the Gelandewagen, this change is all about priorities.

Sure, the IFS (Independent Front Suspension) setup isn't as capable when the terrain gets rough. But this offers a massive benefit in terms of handling, with secondary assets involving areas such as fuel efficiency. However, you should know that the 2019 model actually offers more wheel travel up front, so those purists we mentioned above should at least wait for the first reviews until drawing a conclusion.

As for the rear suspension, this has maintained its solid axle setup, but has gone from a three-link to a five-link layout. Once again, the wheel travel has been boosted.

Oh, and let's not forget the ground clearance has been increased - we're looking at 9.5 inches at the back and 10.6 inches up front.

Then we have the ladder chassis, three lockable diffs and two-speed transfer case (think: low gear), so we can't wait to see the new G Wagon punishing its capable tires on rugged land.

If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Andrei Tutu
Andrei Tutu profile photo

In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories