2019 Mercedes G 350 d Is a Refined and Civilized Entry-Level SUV

Now, the 350 is by no means a new thing. The old W463 generation had something called a G 350 BlueTEC which had only 211 from 2012 to 2015. There was also the G 300 CDI with even less power, but that's another story entirely.

While the all-new G-Class was undergoing testing as a hot camo prototype, we often talked about new inline-6 engines, which were just rumors at the time. The G 350 d is the first to use one.

It's called the OM 656, and it's a 2.9-liter turbo, similar to the one you'll find in an S-Class or E-Class. Its power ratings are more impressive than the predecessor model: 286 HP at 3,400rpm and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque from 1,200rpm. It's hooked up to a 9-speed G-Tonic automatic with buttery-smooth shifts.

So far, Mercedes has only offered two 4-liter V8 gasoline powerhouses (the G500 and the AMG G63). They're cool, but can drink an obscene amount of fuel. And do you really want that in a utility vehicle, frequent trips to the gas station?

The phrase "everything you need" correctly describes the G 350 d, which still gobbles up around 9.6 to 9.8 liters combined (29 mpg UK) and emits 252 to 259 grams of CO2. With a lot more power than the old diesel and a better chassis, performance is also adequate: 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 199 km/h (123 mph).

We know from other Mercedes models that the OM 656 is perhaps the smoothest, quietest and most refined six-cylinder diesel, trumping Audi and BMW. Not that the German rivals have anything like the G-Class. This early review from Auto Express also suggests it's a competent off-roader and a 100% modern machine that just happens to look like the original.