MBPassionBlog reports that the 2018 Mercedes G-Class
(Mercedes W463) will debut at the NAIAS 2018 (Detroit Auto Show 2018) that
opens January 14, which is fitting given that the U.S is one of its biggest
markets. Bookings will begin in the same month, while deliveries are reportedly
scheduled from May 2018.
The new G Class will continue in the G 500 and AMG G
63 petrol variants and base G 350d diesel version. Fans of the new G500 4×42
will be disappointed to know that the next gen G-Class will no longer be
offered in such a variant. The range-topping V12-powered AMG G 65 will also not
make the cut for series production, rather being built in limited numbers as
the last hurrah. The report speculates that Mercedes will only build 65
examples of the next-gen AMG G 65.
The 2018 Mercedes G-Class will retain the characteristic boxy
styling, but with contemporary tweaks and a 10 cm wider track. Inside, the
dashboard gets a single binnacle that houses a wide COMAND infotainment display
and conventional dials flanking a large multi-info colour display (a full
digital driver’s display could be optional) and a handlebar on the passenger
side.
The report also suggests that Mercedes will
extensively use aluminium and other lightweight materials to trim down the
overall kerb weight for better fuel economy. It will also feature a new
suspension setup and an electromechanical steering system.