วันจันทร์ที่ 3 สิงหาคม พ.ศ. 2552

>>Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK (US)
Manufacturer Mercedes-Benz
Parent company Daimler AG
Production 2009-
Assembly Bremen, Germany
Mexico City, Mexico
São Paulo, Brazil
Class Compact luxury crossover SUV Compact
Body style(s) 4-door SUV
Layout Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Engine(s) 2.2L CDI I4
3.0L V6
2.8L V6
3.3L V6
3.2L CDI V6
Transmission(s) 7-speed automatic
Wheelbase 108.5 in (2756 mm)
Length 178.2 in (4526 mm)
Width 79.4 in (2017 mm)
Height 66.9 in (1699 mm)
Related Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The Mercedes-Benz GLK (code name X204) is a compact crossover competing with the Infiniti EX, Acura RDX, BMW X3, Volkswagen Tiguan and Land Rover LR2/Freelander, as well as the upcoming Audi Q5, Volvo XC60, Saab 9-4X, and Cadillac BRX. The model sits below the M-Class in the lineup. It is set for release in the United States at early 2010 and as informed by magazines, it should be wearing a price tag around $37,000, which is very close to one of its rivals, the BMW X3.

The GLK-Class was launched in 2008 and is built in Bremen (Germany), the first Mercedes SUV to be built there. Its design is heavily influenced by the GL-Class.

On 2008-01-12, actress Kim Cattrall (photos)appeared at a special unveiling ceremony at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, confirming that her Sex and the City character (Samantha Jones) would drive the SUV in the movie version of the popular TV show.

The GLK was presented for the first time in 2008 in Detroit under the form of the Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK Freeside concept.

MBUSA partnered with four tuners to develop custom designs for the newly released GLK for the 2008 SEMA show in Las Vegas. Boulevard Customs, Brabus, RENNtech, Leegendary Motorcar Company were the four tuners that had this unique opportunity to design their vision.

The GLK-Class shares the C-Class (W204) platform, and production plans continued after the demise of the similar Smart Formore.

Safety

Comprehensive restraint system for the best possible occupant protection

In combination with the front and rear deformation zones, the high-strength passenger cell of the GLK-Class provides a highly efficient foundation for the occupant protection systems. The intricate restraint system is capable of offering the greatest possible protection potential. As many as nine airbags are fitted, which are deployed selectively depending on the type of collision and its severity to reduce the forces exerted on the occupants eMercedesBenz said - The all-encompassing approach taken to achieving a high standard of safety evinces itself particularly clearly in the Integral Safety concept, that Mercedes-Benz has once again implemented in the new GLK.

Engines

  • 2.2 L diesel I4 190 PS (187 hp/140 kW)
  • 2996 cc V6 228 hp (171 kW)
  • 3498 cc V6 268 hp (201 kW)
  • 3.0 L diesel V6 224 PS (221 hp/165 kW)

Range

At launch in Germany, the car was offered in all-wheel drive only, though there has been media speculation of a possible rear-wheel drive only version.

The range at launch comprised:

  • GLK 220 CDI - 2.2-Litre-I4 - 190 PS (187 hp/140 kW)
  • GLK 280 - 3.0-Litre-V6 - 231 PS (228 hp/170 kW)
  • GLK 350 - 3.5-Litre-V6 - 272 PS (268 hp/200 kW)
  • GLK 320 CDI - 3.0-Litre-Diesel - 224 PS (221 hp/165 kW)

Gallery

>>Mercedes-Benz MB100

Mercedes-Benz MB100

Mercedes-Benz MB100

The Mercedes-Benz MB100 is a small panel truck (van) made by Mercedes-Benz in three different versions: a cargo van, a passenger van (“bus”) with more windows, and a camper-van.

The vehicle was powered by a 2.4 litre diesel making about 55 kW (73 hp), an engine also used in the Mercedes Benz 207D. Production began in 1981, at the Vitoria factory in northern Spain. In 1992 the MB100 was given a slanted radiator and an extended front end, intended among other things to enhance safety in a collision.

In Germany the MB100 was offered from 1988 to 1995 as an extension of Daimler-Benz's commercial motor vehicle range. The MB100 was eventually replaced by the Mercedes-Benz Vito.

>>Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Mercedes-Benz M-Class
2002 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG
Manufacturer Mercedes-Benz
Parent company Daimler AG
Production 1997–present
Class Mid-size SUV
Body style(s) 4-door SUV
Layout Front engine, four-wheel drive

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class is a mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) with light off-road capability, first offered in 1997 as a 1998 model, and built by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz. It marked a shift at Mercedes-Benz in becoming a global player; while it had plants outside Germany before, they merely built German models. Gradually, the M-Class became a sales success in the United States and Mexico. In size, it is slotted below the GL-Class. For a short time, between the years 1999 to 2002, the M class was built by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria, for the European market, until it moved to part of the U.S. market. The Mercedes-Benz ML competes with the BMW X5, Infiniti FX, Audi Q7, Cadillac SRX, Porsche Cayenne, Lexus RX, and Lincoln MKX.

W163 (1998-2005)

W163
1998-2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
Model year(s) 1998–2005
Assembly Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States
Graz, Austria (1999-2002)
Class Mid-size Luxury SUV
Platform Mercedes-Benz W163
Engine(s) 2.3 L I4 (150 hp only manual)
2.7 L I5 (Diesel)
3.2 L V6
3.7 L V6
4.3 L V8
5.0 L V8
5.5 L V8
Transmission(s) 5-speed manual
5-speed automatic
Wheelbase 111.0 in (2819 mm)
Length 1998-2002: 180.6 in (4587 mm)
AMG: 182.5 in (4636 mm)
2003-05: 182.6 in (4638 mm)
Width 1998-2002: 72.2 in (1834 mm)
AMG: 74.6 in (1895 mm)
2003-05: 72.4 in (1839 mm)
Height 1998-2002: 69.9 in (1775 mm)
AMG: 69.3 in (1760 mm)
2003-05: 71.7 in (1821 mm)
Curb weight 4,614 lb (2,093 kg)
Fuel capacity 22 US gal (83 L; 18 imp gal)

The M-Class was the first luxury SUV to feature stability control, a system designed to detect loss of control and instantaneously intervene with selective braking to bring the vehicle back on its intended course. This system is now hailed by safety experts, and studies have shown stability control and systems like it are capable of reducing single vehicle crashes by up to 30 percent. Furthermore, the M-Class boasted front- and side-impact airbags with advanced occupant detection for the front passenger seat, which, combined with Mercedes' legendary safety structure, earned the M-Class the highest marks in insurance industry crash tests.

A road test on the BBC programme Top Gear revealed that the presenter, Jeremy Clarkson, could put his fingers into the gap below the rear lights and above the rear bumper. This improved over the years, especially after a mild facelift for 2002. However, owners are often unhappy with the car's quality — for example, the car was placed last out of 142 cars in the Top Gear Motoring Survey 2004. DaimlerChrysler spent US$600 million on improvements at the Alabama factory before launching the second-generation ML in 2005.

The modified W163 that appears in Steven Spielberg's movie The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997).

Before the vehicle was launched, Mercedes-Benz allowed the producers to use two pre-production M-Class SUVs in the film The Lost World: Jurassic Park, and used the vehicle's appearance in the film as a way to advertise it when it was launched. As a result, a Mercedes-Benz ad appears before the film on original VHS copies of the film.

Major model variants have included the ML320, ML350, ML430, ML500, ML550 and ML55, along with the 4-cylinder ML230 and the turbodiesel ML270 CDI and ML400 CDI in Europe. The ML55, or ML55 AMG, featured a V8 engine made by AMG, modified body-work, and other performance features. The ML350 replaced the ML320 as the base model in the United States in 2004, although the ML320 CDI is sold in states where emissions regulations allow.

The M-Class was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 1998. The ML320 was voted the 1998 North American Truck of the Year at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, in January 1998.

Pope Benedict XVI in his 2002 ML430 Popemobile

The current Popemobile is based on a W163 ML430 and has been in service since July 2002.VW had offered to build a new vehicle based on the Touareg, but Pope Benedict XVI opted to continue using his predecessor's Mercedes-Benz-manufactured vehicle.

W164 (2006-present)

W164
2008 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
Model year(s) 2006–present
Assembly Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States
Class Mid-size crossover SUV
Platform Mercedes-Benz W164
Engine(s) 3.5 L V6
5.0 L V8
4.6 L V8
5.5 L V8
6.2 L V8
3.0 L V6 diesel
4.0 L V8 diesel
Transmission(s) 7-speed automatic
Wheelbase 114.7 in (2913 mm)
Length 4788 mm (188.5 in)
AMG: 189.8 in (4821 mm)
Width 1910 mm (75.2 in)
AMG: 76.8 in (1951 mm)
Height 1815 mm (71.5 in)
AMG: 73.3 in (1862 mm)
Curb weight 2150 kg (4740 lb)
Fuel capacity 25.1 US gal (95 L; 21 imp gal)
Related Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

The redesigned M-class (chassis name W164) was introduced to the public in April 2005 as a 2006 model after showing at the North American International Auto Show in January. It is almost entirely new, with a more sporting, aerodynamic look—the coefficient of drag is down to 0.34. Mercedes-Benz has also made the new M-class larger, measuring 150 mm longer than the first model. The M-Class was named "Best New Sport Utility Vehicle" in the 2006 Canadian Car of the Year awards. The back was commonly referred as a shoebox so DaimlerChrysler spent most of their $600 million dollars on redesigning that part.

Mercedes-Benz extensively publicized the US$600 million that was spent to update their factory and add additional manufacturing space for the new R-Class. According to early automotive press reports, the 2006 M-Class vehicles demonstrate vast improvements in build quality.

The W164 platform used for the new M-Class is shared with the new GL-Class and is a unibody type rather than the former (W163) body-on-frame used by the M-Class vehicles produced from 1998-2005. The X164 GL-CLass, a longer 7-seater version of the W164 platform, is also available.

New features in the 2006 M-Class include the 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission, optional Active Curve-Illuminating Bi-Xenon headlights which "steer" in the path of the vehicle, and an adjustable-height air suspension. The manual transmission has been dropped.

4-valve engines are replacing the previous 3-valve SOHC V6 and current 3-valve V8:

  • ML350 - 3.5 L 4-valve V6, 272Hp(258 ft·lbf)
  • ML500 - 5.0 L 4-valve V8, 302HP
  • ML550 - 5.5 L 4-valve V8, 382HP(550 N·m)(North America)
  • ML63 AMG - 6.2 L 4-valve V8, 510HP (347 kW)
  • ML280 CDI - 3.0 L V6 Turbo Diesel, 190.4HP (325 ft·lbf)
  • ML320 CDI - 3.0 L V6 Turbo Diesel, 224HP (376 ft·lbf)
  • ML420 CDI - 4.0 L V8 Diesel, 306HP (700 N·m)

Models using Bluetec Diesel engine with urea injection will be introduced for the 2009 model year.

ML63 AMG

The AMG version of the W164, the ML63 AMG, was introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show as a limited edition 2007 model. It features a 6.2 L M156 V8 engine producing 510 hp (380 kW) and 465 lb·ft (630 N·m) that is handcrafted in Germany, which makes the vehicle extremely rare. The engine is mated to an AMG Speedshift 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission. The ML63 can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.8 seconds.

Facelift

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class got a minor face-lift as it debuts at the 2008 New York International Auto Show.

This face-lift includes new front headlights, redesigned front and rear bumpers, new exterior mirrors, a deeper front grille, restyled interior, and a new ML 420 CDI engine choice.

>>Mercedes-Benz L-series truck

Mercedes-Benz L-series truck

Mercedes-Benz L-series 4x2 pulling containers in Saudi Arabia

The Mercedes-Benz L-series is a conventional layout, cab-after-engine truck manufactured from 1958 to 1995. (L series) (L serie)

The L-series was first produced in Germany in 1958 and was in production for export until 1995. The L-series was a big export success for Mercedes-Benz and became very popular in the Middle-East, South America and Africa. In Arabia, the L-series in 6x6 sleeper cab configuration (Model 'LS') handled heavy road traction almost exclusively.

Just as the Dodge Power Wagon became synonymous with oil exploration throughout Arabia in the 1950s, the L-series, together with the Kenworth 953 became the two trucks which were synonymous with the oil exploration boom in Arabia throughout the 1960s. Many roads throughout Arabia were not surfaced until the early Eighties and there were no weight or length limitations on road haulage. This meant that the trucks carried heavier loads than for which they were designed, in some instances three times the maximum weight, and in carrying these loads, the L-series gained a reputation for toughness and reliability. Nearly all L-series shipped to Arabia were orange in color, but all L-series shipped to North Africa were green in color.

After 1995 production in Germany ceased but was continued at Mercedes-Benz factories in South America. The L-series remains in service throughout all of the regions to which it was exported.

>>Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
Mercedes-Benz GL450
Manufacturer Mercedes-Benz
Parent company DaimlerChrysler (2007)
Daimler AG (2008-present)
Production 2006–present
Assembly Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
Juarez Mexico
Class Full-size SUV
Body style(s) 5-door SUV
Layout Front engine, four-wheel drive
Engine(s) 3.0 L V6 (diesel)
4.0 L V8 (diesel)
4.7 L V8
5.5 L V8
Transmission(s) 7-speed 7G-Tronic automatic
Wheelbase 3075 mm (121.1 in)
Length 5085 mm (200.2 in)
Width 1920 mm (75.6 in)
Height 1840 mm (72.4 in)
Related Mercedes-Benz M-Class

The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (code name X164) is a Daimler AG full-size SUV built by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz since 2006. The GL-Class debuted at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. The car was designed for the American market, which is shown by its large size, making it the only similarly-sized rival up against Audi's Q7, along with the redesigned BMW X5, as well as a facelifted Volvo XC90 by that time. It is the seven-passenger counterpart of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class. Although the car was designed for the US market, it is also sold in Europe, albeit in far fewer numbers. The Mercedes GL competes with the Cadillac Escalade, however people are beginning to believe that the Escalade is more upscale (because of its standard leather upholstery, remote engine start, and 68 more horsepower). However, others believe that the GL-class has higher ride quality and deserves the $60,000 price tag that it has (as of December 2008).

It lacks the boxy styling and body-on-frame construction of the G-Class in favor of a modified version of the M-Class' unibody architecture. Many motorists consider it the "Elongated and Wider" version of the recently redesigned M-Class. It is a three-row, seven-passenger crossover SUV with much more luxurious equipment than previous civilian G-Class vehicles. All future GL-Class vehicles will be assembled at either Daimler AG's Alabama factory or Mercedes-Benz's Juarez, Mexico factory. The GL class was originally intended to replace the 25-year old G-Class model, however due to public and fan outcries, Mercedes Benz had decided to keep the G-Class in production for the foreseeable future and decided to update it for 2006.

Mercedes-Benz introduced its BlueTec diesel system to the GL-Class at the 2006 North American International Auto Show as the GL 320 Bluetec. This system uses urea to clean Diesel emissions, making the GL 320 50-state legal in the United States. It went on sale in July 2006, but models with urea injection will only be introduced in 2008.

Engines

  • GL 320 CDI BlueTec: 3.0 L V6 (diesel), 160 kW (215 hp)
  • GL 420 CDI: 4.0 L V8 (diesel), 225 kW (302 hp)
  • GL 450: 4.7 L V8, 250 kW (335 hp)
  • GL 550 (GL 500 in Europe): 5.5 L V8, 285 kW (382 hp)

Awards

>>Mercedes-Benz Concept FASCINATION

Mercedes-Benz Concept FASCINATION

The Mercedes-Benz ConceptFASCINATION is a concept car created in Germany by Mercedes-Benz. It was revealed to the public on the 11th of September 2008, and will appear at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. The shooting-brake-style concept has been designed as a preview for the next-generation (W212) Mercedes E-Class, and will likely never make production.

Precursive Design Elements

In German car-design circles, the term 'Fascination' is used to describe a 'new direction', with various elements such as the nose and profile likely to appear on the next-generation E-Class, to be revealed at the 2009 Geneva motor show, and its derivatives, including the CLS 4-door coupé.

Mercedes-Benz director Dr Thomas Weber, responsible for research and development said,

"The show car not only demonstrates a fascinating, new design idiom, but - with our new, high-performance and economical diesel drive system using BlueTEC technology - shows that Mercedes-Benz vehicles will also set standards in the future in terms of sustainability as well as emotional appeal, driving pleasure and comfort."

Specifications

The ConceptFASCINATION is powered by a 2.2-litre four-cylinder BlueTec turbo-diesel engine, with emissions-cutting AdBlue technology. The engine develops 152kW of power and 500Nm of torque, and is combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox. This powertrain is likely to make production in various Mercedes-Benz models by 2010.

Detailed information regarding the ConceptFASCINATION will be revealed at the Paris motor show in October 2008.

>>Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Mercedes-Benz 300GB (US)
Manufacturer Mercedes-Benz
Parent company Daimler-Benz (1979-1998)
DaimlerChrysler (1998-2007)
Daimler AG (2008-present)
Production 1979-present
Assembly Graz, Austria
Class Mid-size sport utility vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class or G-Wagen, short for Geländewagen (or cross-country vehicle), is a four-wheel drive vehicle / sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by German automaker Mercedes-Benz. It was borne by proposals for a military vehicle in the early 1970s by the Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi of Iran, a major Daimler-Benz shareholder. Developed in co-operation with the Austrian car manufacturer Steyr-Daimler-Puch, production of the G-Class began in 1979 with the 460 Series models.The G-Class has been sold under the Puch name in certain markets, and the Peugeot P4 is a variant made under license, with a Peugeot engine and other equipment.

Mercedes-Benz secured military contracts for the vehicle in the late 1970s and offered a civilian version to the public in 1979. Designed to be a durable, reliable, and rugged off-roader, the G-wagen utilizes three fully locking differentials (one of the few vehicles sold in the U.S. to have such, along with the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Toyota 80-series Land Cruiser, Pinzgauer High Mobility All-Terrain Vehicle, and Mercedes-Benz Unimog). Among the engines offered in the G-Class for the 2004 model year is a 5.5-litre V8.

Marking its 25th anniversary, the 2005 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG was relaunched as the G55 Kompressor or G55K and received a boost in power, thanks to a 5.5-liter, supercharged V8 developing 469 hp (350 kW) and 516 lb·ft (700 N·m). of torque.

Puch G

History

The G-Wagen was first offered for sale in 1979 and redesigned in 1990/1991. A new version was expected for 2007, but the new GL-Class will not replace the G-Wagen and it will continue to be hand-built in Graz, Austria at an annual production rate of 4,000 to 6,000 units.

W460/W461

W460
1980 Mercedes-Benz 230 G Popemobile
Production 1979-1991
Body style(s) 2-door SWB convertible
2-door SWB SUV/Van
2-door LWB Van
4-door LWB SUV
Layout Front engine, rear-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive
Platform Mercedes-Benz W460
Engine(s) 2.0L I4
2.3L I4
2.8L I6 Petrol
2.4L I4
2.5L I5
3.0L I5 Diesel
Transmission(s) 4-speed manual
5-speed manual
4-speed automatic
Wheelbase 94.5 in (2400 mm) or 112.2 in (2850 mm)

The original W460 G-Wagen went on sale for civilian buyers in the model year 1979. It was offered with two wheelbases, a short wheel base (SWB) of 2400 mm and a long one (LWB) of 2850 mm. One could choose between three body styles: A 2-door SWB convertible, a 2-door SWB wagon and a LWB 4-door wagon. The two wagons were also available as windowless 2-door Van (or 'Kastenwagen' in German).
During the G-wagens impressive life span many a different body style was made for army and public-service clients, like the Popemobile, the pickup or the chassis/cab with a wheel base of 2850, 3120 or 3400 mm, the chassis/cab being the base vehicle for army-ambulances or communication vehicles. Please note that, because of the sheer variety of military versions, this article is mainly about the somewhat more standardized civilian G-Wagen.

The W460 was popular with military and off-road enthusiasts, with more than 50,000 built in the first decade. The vehicle was not offered in the United States officially, but by means of "casual importation" grey-market in the mid-1980s, importers were successful in selling some G-Wagens (mostly W463s) that had been modified to meet US DOT specifications for around $135,000.

The production of the W460 ended August 1991. It was replaced by the all but identical W461. Initially, engine choices were limited to the four cylinder 230GE petrol- and five cylinder 290GD diesel engine. The W460 'cabrio' version was skipped. From 1997 the W461 sported a slightly updated interior with better seats, changed door panels and an updated dash. From this time, the W461 was only available as 290GD Turbo Diesel with 4-speed automatic transmission. The petrol engine was dropped. Disc brakes all around became standard and the bell-housing of the front axle was changed to accommodate larger reduction-gears. The exterior and other mechanics changed little, not even the model badge which kept indicating 290GD.

The main technical difference between the W460/461 and W463 model, apart from the choice of engines, gearboxes and heavy-duty suspension, is the layout of the drive train. Whilst the W463 offers full-time 4WD, the W460/461 is basically rear wheel drive with manually selectable 4WD. This means that these models do not have a centre differential, thus no centre diff-lock. Only front and rear locking differentials are needed to obtain a fully locked drive train. The front lockers were not fitted as standard, but as a factory-fitted option. The difflocks are manually operated using hydraulic levers next to the transfer case selector handle.
Other differences between W460/461 and W463 models are mainly cosmetic. From the front, the W460/461 can be easily recognized by its grille and headlight covers which differ slightly from the W463 and are always black (on a factory standard car), even if the rest of the bodywork is not. If fitted, wheel arch extenders are made of unfinished plastic, thus also black. Furthermore are the rear view mirrors mounted on the front doors instead of being mounted at the base of the A-pillar. The model badge is integrated in the base of the mirror. Finally, from behind, the biggest differences are the fuel cap, which is not covered on the W460/461, and the arrangement of the taillights and bumpers.
The last and most notable difference can be found inside the car. Where the W463 is very luxurious (wood/leather/electrics etc.), the simpler model is quite basic, with a dash and trim that closely resembles the original vehicles from the late 70's. Apart from the choice of rugged materials, some luxuries like automatic transmission (standard on the 290GD TD), power steering (standard on W461), ABS, drivers airbag, central locking, engine pre-heater, air conditioning (rare), heated seats and electric windows were available for the W460/461. Since 2001 the W461 is no longer available for civilian customers. With its demise the very last Mercedes-Benz sporting the old naming-scheme vanished. The 290GD TD was never rebadged as G290 TD.

W461
Mercedes-Benz W461 G-Class
Production 1991-2001
Body style(s) 2-door SWB SUV
2-door LWB Van
4-door LWB SUV
Layout Front engine, rear-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive
Platform Mercedes-Benz W461
Engine(s) 2.3L I4 Petrol, 2.9L I5 Diesel
2.9L I5 Turbodiesel
Transmission(s) 5-speed manual
4-speed automatic
Wheelbase 94.5 in (2400 mm) or 112.2 in (2850 mm)

W463

W463
Mercedes-Benz G500 (US)
Production 1990-present
Body style(s) 2-door SWB convertible
2-door SWB SUV
4-door LWB SUV
Layout Front engine / Four-wheel drive
Platform Mercedes-Benz W463
Engine(s) 5.0L 296 hp (221 kW) V8
5.4L 469 hp (350 kW) supercharged V8
2.9L V6 Diesel
Transmission(s) 5-speed automatic
Wheelbase 94.5 in (2400 mm) or 112.2 in (2850 mm)
Length Pre-2003: 183.5 in (4661 mm)
2004-Present: 185.6 in (4714 mm) (LWB)
Width Pre-2003: 69.3 in (1760 mm)
2004-Present: 71.3 in (1811 mm)
AMG: 73.4 in (1864 mm)
Height 2004-Present: 77.8 in (1976 mm)
Pre-2003: 72.3 in (1836 mm)

The chassis was revised for 1990 as the W463 with anti-lock brakes, full-time 4WD and a full trio of electronically-locking differentials. The interior was totally upgraded, finished with wooden accents and optional leather upholstery.


The range was refreshed again in 1997, including the introduction of a power-topped convertible and two new engines, the 2.9 L Turbo Diesel and the V6-powered (M112 motor) G320 - previous years' G320s were outfitted with the M104 I6. The V8 G-wagen returned with a new engine in 1998 as the G500, with official sales beginning in the United States in 2002 at $75,000. The 349 hp (260 kW) G55 AMG cemented the vehicle in the American market with many snapped up by celebrities. The most powerful V8, the 476 hp (355 kW) (later 500 hp (370 kW)) G55 AMG Kompressor, introduced in 2004 as model year 2005, is able to hit 60 mph (100 km/h) in just 5.4 seconds. In 2005 M-B was considering that it would be the LAST YEAR they would import the Geländewagen into the USA market. They even launched a "Grand Edition" (something they like to do to sell off the last of a particular model). One reason it was supposedly continued in the US market was because of a order placed for some 160+ diesel units for the US Marine Corp (H1 HumVees don't fit well in the V-22 Opsrey). t2005 was the FIRST YEAR the G55 AMG model boasted 469 HORSEPOWER, a 120 HP increase over the '03 and '04 AMG models.

'The 2009 G55 AMG - 30th Anniversary - The Best SUV Ever'

Following its most recent makeover, the G55 AMG from Mercedes-AMG is now even more attractive. Boasting an upgraded performance of 373 kW/507 hp, this offroad classic has also been given a fresh look, incorporating a reworked radiator grille and new 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. Inside, the exclusive interior features the latest generation of telematics equipment and optional climatised seats in combination with designo leather upholstery for enhanced passenger comfort.

The inclusion of some of the latest technology has made this classic from the AMG stable fit for the future. Thanks to the integration of a new engine control unit, the performance of the supercharged AMG 5.4-litre V8 engine has been nudged up from 368 kW/500 hp to 373 kW/507 hp, with maximum torque remaining at 700 Nm. Likewise unchanged is the vehicle's effortless performance, with the Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds and peaking at a top speed of 210 km/h (electronically limited).

The upgraded Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG also features improvements in the areas of safety and comfort. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP®), for example, now boasts a new and more powerful control unit, incorporating a transverse acceleration control to allow more precise recognition of dynamic driving situations and thus provide even better vehicle stability. In addition, the new Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG now comes with a hill-start assist. A sensor recognises whenever the off-roader comes to a halt on an ascending gradient. The system instantly memorises the braking pressure applied and maintains this for a short instant, giving drivers sufficient time to move from the brake to the accelerator pedal without the vehicle rolling backward. The big advantage of this technology is that in most cases it eliminates the need to use the parking brake.

Discreet but effective design modifications

The new Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG boasts discreet but effective design modifications,including a new radiator grille with three distinctive horizontal bars that are painted the same colour as the rest of the body and - exclusive to the AMG top-of-the-range model - also feature chrome inserts. Moving around the vehicle, the highlight of the side view are the new polished 19-inch five-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted titanium grey. They are 9.5 inches wide and equipped with 275/55 R 19 tires that impressively bulk out the wheel arches.

Still a standard feature of the AMG body-styling package are the bumpers painted in body colour and the characteristic AMG wide fenders. Other features include a brushed-aluminium trim set boasting a distinctive AMG logo and the twin oval chrome tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system, emerging from beneath the stainless-steel running boards on either side of the vehicle - an unmistakable sign of the power of the supercharged AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine.

New COMAND APS and designo leather upholstery fitted as standard

The Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG also underscores its exclusive character with designo leather upholstery, which is standard and now features a new silver-coloured designo emblem on the front backrests. The seats are colour-coordinated with the designo decorative wood trim as well as the wood/leather steering wheel and the redesigned wood/leather selector lever bearing a G 55 logo. Also new is the interior roof lining made of anthracite Alcantara. Helping to enhance passenger comfort, particularly in the summer months, are the new climatised seats, which are available for the first time with this model.

Drivers of the new Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG will also benefit from the latest generation of telematics equipment developed by Mercedes. The standard equipment COMAND APS system boasts a high-definition 6.5-inch colour display, rapid HDD navigation with aerial view, LINGUATRONIC for controlling audio, navigation and phone systems, a 4 GB memory for music files, and a slot for SD memory cards. Also available as an option is a DVDchanger and a universal interface for plugging in USB sticks, iPods, or other external audio devices.

The Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG is only available as a long-wheelbase station wagon with five doors. The vehicle will be available from September 2008 at a price of 121,618 euros (incl. 19 percent sales tax in Germany).

The AMG G-class is expected to soon receive the AMG 6.2-liter V8, since the older 5.4-liter unit is no longer used in any other new vehicle in the lineup. The 500 will also switch to the 382hp 32v 5.5-liter V8, and will likely be called the G550 in North America, but the G500 elsewhere, so as to follow the current nomenclature trends.

W463 500GE

The W463 client had a larger choice of engines, the preliminary apex being the V8-powered 500GE in 1993. This catered more of a luxury than off-road crowd with only center and rear differential locks and an even more luxurious cabin. The 500GE was produced in limited numbers for just two years. All W463 G-Wagens began using Mercedes-Benz's new letter-first naming scheme in 1994.

W463 G36

Various automobile tuners such as AMG, BRABUS, LORINSER, Carlsson (car company) and RENNtech have modified the engine and exterior with a 3.6 liter engine.

W463 Cabrio

Mercedes-Benz G500 cabriolet

The G-Class Cabrio is the only handmade 4x4 in the world that has a power-top and the highly sophisticated off-road vehicle utilizing three fully locking differentials. There are only twenty of these handmade vehicles produced a year in Graz, Austria. Mercedes-Benz USA does not import the G-Class Cabrio to the United States but private importers do, which cost up to USD$135,000.

W463 / X164 (2006 and beyond until 2012 per MB announcement)

It was rumored that, with military contracts for the G-Class completed, production of the old G-wagen in Graz, Austria would cease as of 2006. However, reports state that production of the current G-wagen will continue for the foreseeable future, alongside its once-intended replacement, the GL-Class (X164). An outcry among enthusiasts who admired the G-Class for its tremendous off-road potential showed that a market still existed for such a vehicle. Mercedes-Benz elected to continue G-Class production for the hardcore off-road market, while the larger 3-row GL-Class would be marketed as a competitor for the likes of the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator.

As of July 2006, Mercedes-Benz announced a late-availability 2006 model year G-Class on its website. The company also showed a facelifted 2007 model at the Paris Auto Show in September 2006 and increased the power of the G 55 AMG version from 476 to 500 hp (370 kW). Currently the 2009 G 500 and G 55 AMG is offered for sale at the 30-year Anniversary of the G Class. Both models with cosmetic upgrades most noticeable with the new grill, rims, etc. Mercedes-Benz has announced that the G-Class will continue to be manufactured through 2012 due to continued good worldwide demand including for military purposes.

2008 Mercedes Benz G Class 4WD 4dr 5.5L AMG Specs

All new 2008 Mercedes Benz G Class specifications include engine specs, transmission, drivetrain, bodystyle, color choices, standard features and options, and more. These vehicle specs will arm you with the knowledge you will need to shop for or compare cars.

EPA FUEL ECONOMY RATINGS City 11/hwy 13 (5.5L engine/5-speed auto trans)

EXTERIOR Aluminum running boardsBi-xenon light-sensing headlamps w/heated high pressure washersChrome-finish front bumper underbarChrome-finish front turn signal cages & taillamp cagesCorner-illuminating halogen foglampsIntermittent rear wiper w/washerPrivacy glass-inc: rear doors & quarters & liftgateProgrammable daytime running lamps w/auto-on overridePwr heated mirrors-inc: auto-dimming driver mirror, integrated turn signals, memory, entrance lampsPwr tilt/slide glass sunroofRain-sensing intermittent front wipers w/heated washer systemSingle red rear foglamp

INTERIOR 10-way pwr front seats w/4-way adjustable head restraints, 3-position memory4-way pwr tilt/telescopic steering column w/memory, driver-programmable easy-entry & exit feature60/40-split-folding rear seats w/(3) adjustable head restraintsAdvanced tire pressure monitoring system AMG leather & wood-trimmed shift knobAnti-theft alarm systemAuto-dimming rearview mirrorAutomatic dual-zone climate control-inc: electrostatic dust filter, adjustable rear cabin vents at rear of center console COMAND cockpit management & data system-inc: AM/FM/Weatherband radio, scan & dual sensitivity seek tuning, cargo area mounted 6-disc CD changer, Sirius satellite radio, navigation, hands-free communication controls, harman/kardon digital surround sound syCruise controlDesigno Nappa leather upholsteryDesigno Natural Maple wood trimDriver side multi-contour seat-inc: pneumatic side bolsters, dual lumbar supports, thigh supportDVD navigation systemElectronic analog speedometer, tachometer, & fuel gaugeFront center console w/attachable cup holderHeated front & outboard rear seatsIlluminated AMG stainless-steel door sill trimIntegrated 3-button HomeLink compatible garage door controlLeather & wood-trimmed heated steering wheel w/multi-function display controlsLeather-trimmed parking brake lever/bootLocator lighting w/path illuminationMercedes-Benz Maintenance System display-inc: distance remaining to next maintenance, type of service due, reminders, brake-pad monitoringMulti-function displays in speedometer face-inc: trip computer, engine oil level check, digital speedometer, message indicator, driver-programmable settings, navigation system route guidance, exterior temp gauge, audio status, engine coolant temp, phone mNight security illuminationPwr windows w/1-touch express downRear parking assistRear view cameraRear window defroster w/auto-shutoff based on time & driving speed & exterior tempSilver accented AMG instrument clusterSmartKey infrared remote-inc: windows open/close, panic alarm, fuel filler door, selective unlock allSmartKey system-inc: remote central locking system, anti-theft engine immobilizer, driver-programmable user-recognition features, drive away automatic locking.

MECHANICAL (3) locking differentials18" x 9.5" AMG 5-spoke aluminum wheels w/titanium finish2-speed transfer case4-wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) w/brake assist4-wheel Electronic Traction System (4-ETS)5-speed driver-adaptive automatic transmission w/Touch Shift, optimum gear programming5.5L SOHC 24-valve AMG supercharged V8 engineAMG sidepipe exhaust w/(2) stainless-steel tips per sideElectronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)Electronic Stability Program (ESP)Front/rear tow hooksP265/60R18 high performance spare tire w/18" x 7.5" 5-spoke aluminum spare wheel, rear-mounted carrierP285/55R18 high performance tiresPermanent 4-wheel drivePwr 4-wheel slotted & internally vented disc brakesRecirculating ball steering w/power assist, hydraulic damperRigid front/rear axles w/longitudinal & transverse links, coil springs

NOTE

    • ALL STANDARDS ARE 2008 UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED**SAFETY

3-point front seat belts w/Emergency Tensioning Device (ETD), belt force limiter3-point outboard rear seat belts w/Emergency Tensioning Device (ETD), middle 3-point seat belt4-wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) w/brake assist4-wheel Electronic Traction System (4-ETS+)Driver & front passenger airbags-inc: dual-stage driver airbag, front passenger occupancy sensor, BabySmartElectronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)Electronic Stability Program (ESP)Front/rear window curtain side airbagsProgrammable daytime running lamps w/auto-on overrideUniversal LATCH system (Lower Anchors & Tethers for Children) at rear outboard seating positions.

Military operators

Argentina
The Argentine Army uses the MB-230G (short and long chassis) since the 1980's, in different roles; some 900 remain in service.
Australia
In 2007, Mercedes-Benz won a contract to provide 1,100 G-Class vehicles to the Australian Defence Force.
Austria
The Austrian Army has been a long time user of various Puch G models.
a Puch G of the Austrian Army
Bulgaria
The Bulgarian Army has signed a deal with Mercedes-Benz for the supply of various G models (mostly armed) as part of its on-going modernization plan.
Canada
a G Wagon of the Canadian Army with a soldier
A total of 1,159 vehicles have been ordered by the Canadian Army beginning in late 2003. An armoured kit can be fitted (or removed) in 8 hours by three soldiers. Their light armour has been criticised for leading to loss of life in Afghanistan, however it is considerably better than the Iltis predecessor.
Delivery of these vehicles to Reserve units has also begun; they will be employed in armoured reconnaissance units. It is in the final stages of fully replacing the Iltis in most units as the armoured reconnaissance vehicle in use LFCA. Other units will replace the Iltis with a militarized Chevrolet Silverado known as the MILCOTS (or colloquially as the "Milverado".) :For the most exposed missions in Afghanistan 75 RG-31 Nyala built by BAE Land Systems OMC, South Africa, will be used.
Croatia
Croatia bought 300-320 vehicles for needs of Croatian army and for peacekeeping operations missions in Afghanistan additional 30 RG-31 vehicles were delivered. Croatia uses mix of 4x4 vehicles in peacekeepings operations and Mercedes G class is very popular choice within the Croatian Army. G class are supplemented by Land Rover Wolf and Iveco LRV vehicles.
Denmark
The Danish military bought the 240 GD (/24, /28 and /34 variants) to supersede the M151A1, the Volkswagen 181 ("Jagdwagen") and the Land Rover 88. First deliveries of the 240 GD were in 1985 and later the 290 GD (/24 and /28 variants) where also introduced. More than 1.300 have been put in service. A few 300 GE's have also been used - mainly by the Danish army EOD-services[14]. Currently the Danes are taking delivery of over 2.000 270CDIs in several variants, starting in 2003.
Estonia
The Estonian Defence Forces have a small number of various G-Class vehicles, which were recently purchased to replace the outdated UAZ and Volkswagen Iltis jeeps.
Finland
The Finnish Army uses the Geländewagen mostly as armored vehicles and ambulances, but other versions are also in service.
France
The French Army have the Peugeot P4 which is a derivative from the G-Class equipped with Peugeot engine and equipment.
A Wolf of the German Army
Germany
The German Armed Forces uses the G-Class under the name "Wolf". Over 12,000 vehicles have been delivered in over 50 versions, ranging from ambulance vehicles to armored vehicles used by the German special forces.
Greece
The Greek Army as well as Air Force, Navy and Police use several versions of the Geländewagen, manufactured by ELBO the Hellenic Vehicles Industry as W462.
Hungary
The Hungarian Ground Forces are using a small number of G-270 CDI BA 10, which is mounted with UMF light-machine gun platform.More will be purchased between 2010-2013.
Ireland
The Irish Army Have 60 G-Wagon troop transport vehicles.
Luxembourg
The Military of Luxembourg uses the 300D variant of the Geländewagen.
Norwegian military MB240GD
Malaysia
locally build by DRB HICOM as G-Wagon and used along with Land Rover Defender as light transport of Malaysian Army.
Mexico
The Mexican naval defense secretary (SEMAR) announced in 2008, A contract to purchase large numbers of Mercedes-Benz military vehicles including an up-armored variant of the G-Class "Serval" scout vehicle for the Mexican Marine corps.
Netherlands
The Dutch Army uses various versions of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, mostly W461 290GD and 290GD TD models with manual gearbox. Also the Dutch police and Koninklijke Marechaussee are using the G. Most of these are armored W463 models.
Norway
The Norwegian Army bought 240 GD to replace Volvo and Land Rover jeeps in the mid-1980s, and 300 GD to use as ambulances. The 300GD is also used to transport the launch control station and optical sensors for the NASAMS Air-defense system. During the 90's 290 GD's where bought, and in the first half of the 00's a small number of armoured 270 CDI's were put into service. Today the Defence Forces operates a total of 3000 vehicles.
The escort company of the Norwegian Royal Guard employs a black G500 AMG with police lights on the roof.
Poland
121 in service with Polish Army.
Serbia
The Military of Serbia is using Austrian-made Puch 300GD, most of them, 204 in 300GD 6 and 300GD 3 versions bought by Yugoslav Peoples Army in 1984 as replace for FIAT-1107JD and other older vehicles. There are is also a number (some 100-150) of younger vehicles bought by Yugoslav Army in 1998. The most of Puchs are used by Military Police as patrol vehicles and as utility vehicle for transport of military personal, but also by Special Forces. Military of Serbia is use Puchs in 300GD33, 300GD6 and 300GD10 variants, for transport of VIP persons in 300GD3-LUX and 300GD6-LUX and Special Forces Brigade is use modified version designed for access to combat zone.
The Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs and Serbian Police also use a number of Puch 300GD and Mercedes-Benz G-Class vehicles as cross country patrol vehicle. Some are also used by Firefighter units and Gendarmerie (Žandarmerija) units which patrol the "Ground Safety Zone" on administrative line with Kosovo and Metohija.
Singapore
The Singapore Army bought the 270 and 290 versions as secondary military transport. It is used in soft-top truck configuration and is known as a 1.5-tonner or simply "MB" to its users. And also some were used also for patrolling in a jeep form. The Army also deploys the extremely short-wheelbase, soft-top version for its Colonels, Battalion COs, Brigade and Division Commanders as personal field transports.
Slovenia
Military of Slovenia uses mainly for transport.
Switzerland
The Swiss Army uses the 230 with soft top as the primary general purpose carrier, and a hardtop version as mobile radio access point. It is in service since 1985 and gradually replaced Willys Jeeps, Haflinger light transports and Pinzgauer medium transports in the liaison and transport role. All versions in Swiss Army use are unarmed.
United States
USMC IFAV
The USMC Interim Fast Attack Vehicle (IFAV) is a modified version of the Mercedes-Benz Geländewagen 290. It replaces the modified M-151A2 1/4 ton truck (MUTT jeep) used by the Marines as an FAV in the 1990s. The U.S. Marine Corps acquired 157 of the IFAVs distributed as follows:
  • (I) Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) Camp Pendleton, CA (33);
  • (II) MEF Camp Lejeune, NC (25);
  • (III) MEF on Okinawa, Japan (27);
  • (IV) 17 Force Recon, Afghanistan (22);
  • (V) 3 Force Recon Bn, Iraq (23);
  • (VI) 1st Provisional DMZ Police Company, Korea (15); and
  • (VII) various miscellaneous (12)
Vatican City
The government of the Vatican City owned two converted Mercedes-Benz G-Class, which are known as the "Popemobile". One is on display at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany.

Models

G 55 AMG
  • 200GE - M102E20 2.0 L I4 (only sold in Italy)
  • 230G - M115 2.3 L I4, 102 hp (75 kW), ??? ft·lbf (172 N·m/3000 rpm)
  • 230GE - M102E23 2.3 L I4, 125 hp (92 kW), ??? ft·lbf (192 N·m/4000 rpm)
  • 280GE - M110 2.8 L I6, 156 hp (115 kW), ??? ft·lbf (226 N·m/4250 rpm)
  • 240GD - OM616 2.4 L Diesel I4, 72 hp (53 kW), ??? ft·lbf (137 N·m/2400 rpm)
  • 250GD - OM602 2.5 L Diesel I5, 94 hp (69 kW), ??? ft·lbf (??? N·m)
  • G 270 CDI - OM612 2.7 L Diesel I5 (turbocharged), 156 hp (115 kW), 294 ft·lbf (400 N·m)
  • 290GD - OM602D29 2.9 L Diesel I5, 95 hp (71 kW)
  • 290GD TD - OM602DLA29 2.9 L Diesel I5 (turbocharged), 120 hp (89 kW)
  • 300 GD - OM617 3.0 L Diesel I5 - later rebadged G 300
  • 300 GE - M103 3.0 L I6 - later rebadged G 300
  • G 350 DT
  • G 300 DT - OM606 3.0 L Diesel I6(turbocharged), 177 hp (130 kW), 244ft·lbf (330 N·m)
  • G 320 - M104 3.2 L I6, 217 hp (161 kW), 229 ft·lbf (310 N·m)
  • G 320 - M112 3.2 L V6, 215 hp (158 kW), 220 ft·lbf (300 N·m)
  • G 320 CDI - OM642 3.2 L Diesel V6, 224 hp (165 kW), 397 ft·lbf (540 Nm)
  • G 400 CDI - OM628 4.0 L Diesel V8 (turbocharged), 250 hp (184 kW), 411 ft·lbf (560 N·m)
  • 500 GE - M117 5.0 L V8
  • G 500 - M113E50 5.0 L V8, 296 hp (218 kW), 336 ft·lbf (456 Nm)
  • G 55 AMG - M113E55 5.5 L V8 supercharged, 500 hp (350 kW), 514 ft·lbf (700 N·m)
  • G 63 AMG - V12 N/A, 444 hp (326 kW), (620 N·m/4400 rpm) (only 12 ever built)

Mercedes-AMG Chairman Volker Mornhinweg claims that one third of all G-Class vehicles sold to civilians are the G55 AMG model. The largest markets for G 55's are California, USA (in black and silver color mostly), and the United Arab Emirates with Dubai (in white color mostly)