The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is one of those vehicles that instantly commands respect. That's down to its imposing stature, no question about it, but it also has to do with the fact that - and I mean this in the most flattering way possible - it looks like an old man. One that's aged impeccably.
With the design changing so little over the many years of its life, it is impossible not to recognize the G-Wagen. Not only does it share the same lines as his forerunners, but the design is so contrasting to what the 21st-century models have gotten us used to that a G-Class would pop up from any group of modern cars.
Out in nature, though, not so much. Here, Mercedes-Benz's iconic off-roader feels at home, and it shows it. No matter what kind of engine it has, how many cylinders or how much horsepower, the G-Class is always ready for stepping off the asphalt. In fact, that's where it fulfills its intended purpose, like a Border Collie dog that's lived its whole life in the city and now it's finally rounding up some sheep. And judging by what we've seen so far, the next generation that is already in the works won't do anything to change that. Hooray.
This video shows the great giant stretching its legs in an off-road course set up by Mercedes-Benz inside an old quarry in Kitzbühel, Austria. As the narrator says, this place is perfect for showcasing the G-Wagen's abilities. It's got all imaginable types surfaces - gravel, sand, rocks, snow, mud - plus a ground difference of up to 125 meters (410 feet) with steep slopes and tricky sections.
It provides the ideal scenery for the three differential locks that can be engaged or disengaged while on the move, the low-range gearbox, the generous ground clearance and the overall sturdiness of the body and ladder-type frame that the G-Class offers. Of course, all these mean nothing if the driver isn't skilled in driving off-road, which is why it might be a good idea to watch the clip below. It hands out a few basic tips to anyone who is just uncovering the mysteries of tackling rough terrain, all while providing glorious shots of this very beautiful machine.
Out in nature, though, not so much. Here, Mercedes-Benz's iconic off-roader feels at home, and it shows it. No matter what kind of engine it has, how many cylinders or how much horsepower, the G-Class is always ready for stepping off the asphalt. In fact, that's where it fulfills its intended purpose, like a Border Collie dog that's lived its whole life in the city and now it's finally rounding up some sheep. And judging by what we've seen so far, the next generation that is already in the works won't do anything to change that. Hooray.
This video shows the great giant stretching its legs in an off-road course set up by Mercedes-Benz inside an old quarry in Kitzbühel, Austria. As the narrator says, this place is perfect for showcasing the G-Wagen's abilities. It's got all imaginable types surfaces - gravel, sand, rocks, snow, mud - plus a ground difference of up to 125 meters (410 feet) with steep slopes and tricky sections.
It provides the ideal scenery for the three differential locks that can be engaged or disengaged while on the move, the low-range gearbox, the generous ground clearance and the overall sturdiness of the body and ladder-type frame that the G-Class offers. Of course, all these mean nothing if the driver isn't skilled in driving off-road, which is why it might be a good idea to watch the clip below. It hands out a few basic tips to anyone who is just uncovering the mysteries of tackling rough terrain, all while providing glorious shots of this very beautiful machine.