Happy Thursday: Next-Gen Mercedes G-Class Leaks with No Camo

Less than 24 hours ago, Mercedes-Benz released photos of the all-new, 2019 G-Class roaming through off-road scenery, but covered in the typical black and white test mule camouflaged. We felt privileged to see the new SUV in such detail. Well, that privilege has been blown away as leaked photos of an uncamouflaged G-Wagen have surfaced for the first time!

It is clear Mercedes wanted to keep the G-Class’ iconic appearance intact. The boxy SUV’s design has been evolved rather than revolutionized, despite this being the first generational change since 1979.

Continue reading for more on the new 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

What We Can See

The G-Class is basically the German equivalent of America’s Jeep Wrangler. Both have kept their relatively same designs through the decades. The Wrangler’s most recent redesign for 2018 is the best example of this. To the casual observer, the 2018 Wrangler JL looks almost identical to its predecessor, the 2007 – 2017 Wrangler JK. The same is true for the Mercedes G-Class.

However, like the new Wrangler JL, the new G-Glass’ improvements are more than skin deep. One look at the Benz’s new interior quickly confirms that. However, it’s the exterior we’re seeing for the first time, so let’s break down the changes.

The 2019 G-Class’ wheelbase is stretched 1.6-inches longer than before and its overall width is up a full 2.5 inches. Not only does this make the G more stable, it also affords more room inside. The G also rides on a new independent front suspension system rather than a solid axle. The rear sticks with a solid axle, though Mercedes let its AMG division tune the five-link coil spring suspension. Translated: the new G-Class will ride much smoother and with more body control than ever before.

Up front, the grille, hood, and fenders carry that iconic G-Class appearance, but with minor updates. The headlights are now LED and the grille inserts and bumper design are slightly different. Another big design difference is the side mirrors. They are more car-like and include cameras for the G’s new 360-camera system.

The windshield and side glass look about the same size as before, save for the extra width in the windshield and rear glass. The sides have integrated running boards for an easy step in, while the familiar body molding continues to run along the door handles like before.

Mercedes is serious about the G-Class having outstanding off-roading performance. It is offered with 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. Naturally, larger wheels with street-biased tires will be available. Expect 20- and 22-inch wheels with thin spokes to be an option.

Around back, the spare tire continues to live on the rear door. It comes with a body-color and chrome-accented cover, too. The taillights appear to be LED, just like the headlights.

Mercedes has already debuted photos of the 2019 G-Class’ interior, and unlike the iconic and mildly updated exterior, the dash received a full update with Mercedes’ latest in controls and information screens. Like the E-Class, lower trimmed G-Class models will have the 12.3-inch center infotainment screen with analog gauges behind the steering wheel. Upper trims will have a second 12.3-inch display with digital gauges.

The E-Class cues continue with the center console filled with a long row of toggle switches, an analog clock, and the swanky mouse-like controller and selector knob. In an ode to the previous G-Class, the new model places the switches for its three differential locks front and center, perched right between the HVAC vents. The switches control the front, center, and rear differentials.

The remainder of the interior is trimmed with high-end materials fit for an oligarch. Two-tone perforated leather with contrast stitching covers the nicely bolstered seats while the headliner is covered in suede. Carbon fiber accents are available, too, though other trim choices should be optional.

It’s clear Mercedes did a great job at keeping the G-Class looking like a G-Class while still adding a slew of modern touches and technology. The updated SUV should be a resounding success for the German automaker, especially thanks to the explosive popularity of SUVs these days.

Expect the 2019 G-Class to start around $130,000. By 2020 or 2021, AMG will likely have a sporterized G-Class hitting the market, perhaps with the 4.0-liter, biturbo V-8, the 5.5-liter, biturbo V-8, and the 6.0-liter, biturbo V-12 like in the current model. Only time will tell.

Mercedes will release more information on the 2019 G-Class later this month when the 2018 Detroit Auto Show kicks off. Stay tuned to TopSpeed.com for all the latest information.