For 2007 the output of the G 55 AMG was raised to an even 500 hp. Bi Xenon headlamps, corner-illuminating front foglamps and new scratch-resistant nano-particle paint finishes were offered for the first time. In 2008 more-refined instrumentation and controls were included in the G-Class cabin, along with the COMAND system with hard-drive-based navigation, a rear view camera, voice control, Bluetooth and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Vatican received a new white “Popemobile,” based on a G 500. 2009 marked the 30th anniversary of the vehicle, with over 200,000 units having been manufactured in Graz since 1979.
For 2007 the output of the G 55 AMG was raised to an even 500 hp. Bi Xenon headlamps, corner-illuminating front foglamps and new scratch-resistant nano-particle paint finishes were offered for the first time. In 2008 more-refined instrumentation and controls were included in the G-Class cabin, along with the COMAND system with hard-drive-based navigation, a rear view camera, voice control, Bluetooth and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Vatican received a new white “Popemobile,” based on a G 500. 2009 marked the 30th anniversary of the vehicle, with over 200,000 units having been manufactured in Graz since 1979.
==W460 (1979–1992)==
== G-Wagen 460 and 461==
{{Infobox automobile
{{Infobox automobile
| name = 460 / 461
| name = W460
| image = 1984 Mercedes-Benz 230 GE Automatic 2.3 Front.jpg
| image = 1984 Mercedes-Benz 230 GE Automatic 2.3 Front.jpg
| production = 1979–1990
| production = 1979–1990 (460)<br />1990–present (461)<ref>{{cite web|last1=Westbrook|first1=Justin T.|title=The Outgoing Mercedes G-Class Is Still In Production Because Icons Never Die|url=https://jalopnik.com/the-outgoing-mercedes-g-class-is-still-in-production-be-1826122717|website=Jalopnik|accessdate=21 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180522042328/https://jalopnik.com/the-outgoing-mercedes-g-class-is-still-in-production-be-1826122717|archive-date=22 May 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
The original 460-series Geländewagen went on sale in 1979, after having debuted in February of that year. It was offered with two wheelbases, a short wheelbase (SWB) of 2,400 mm and a long one (LWB) of 2,850 mm. One could choose between three body styles: A two-door short wheelbase [[convertible (car)|convertible]], a two-door SWB [[station wagon|wagon]] and a long wheelbase four-door wagon. The two wagon versions were also available as windowless two-door Vans (or ''Kastenwagen'' in German). While always assembled in Graz, the car was sold as the '''Puch G''' only in the Austrian, Swiss, and Eastern European markets.<ref name="AR87"/>
W460 was introduced at a press event held at the off-road proving ground in [[Toulon]], France. W460 went on sale in September 1979 with three engine choices and five body variants. Over the decade, the engine and transmission choices were expanded or updated along with more and more optional extra cost creature comforts (air conditioning, automatic transmission, power windows, etc.).
During the G-Wagen's 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 wheelbase of 2,850, 3,120 or 3,400 mm, the chassis/cab being the base vehicle for army-ambulances or communication vehicles. Because of the sheer variety of military versions, this article focuses on the more standardized civilian G-Wagen.
G-Wagen gained the global fame in 1980 when Mercedes-Benz built a Popemobile based on 230 G cabriolet during the [[List_of_pastoral_visits_of_Pope_John_Paul_II#1980s|first visit]] of [[Pope John Paul II]] in Germany.
Mercedes-Benz never exported G-Wagen officially to the United States because it was considered more of utilitian vehicle and didn't fit the American perception of what Mercedes-Benz was. During the 1980s, the [[grey import]] specialists brought W460 to the United States and modified them to meet the US regulations. In 1988, the new federal law, Motor Vehicle Safety Compliance Act, closed the loopholes and tightened up the regulations for grey imports, making it more difficult and more expensive for the registered importers to federalise W460 in a very small number. The other issue was severely underpowered engines in 230 GE, 280 GE, and 300 GD might not appeal to the Americans as it was the case with Mercedes-Benz [[Mercedes-Benz_W126|380 SEL]] in the early 1980s.
200 GE was built specifically for Italian markets and other markets where the heavy tax penalty was incurred for engines larger than 2 litres. 300 GD was the most popular model while 280 GE the most powerful. Despite the availability of turbocharged diesel engine in other Mercedes-Benz vehicles, it was never fitted to G-Wagen W460.
The rarest W460 variants were 230 GE 2.6 Brabus (1989–?), 280 GE AMG (specific years not given), and 560 GE (1993). Brabus increased the engine displacement of 2.3-litre four-cylinder inline engine to 2.6 litres, increasing the power to {{convert|114|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on|0}}. AMG modified the 2.8-litre six-cylinder inline petrol engine for more power, {{convert|134|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on|0}}. No further production information about price and number of units built were established. Only two units of 560 GE were built in 1993 as part of feasibility study that resulted in a limited series of W463 500 GE for 1993–1994 and W463 G 500 from 1998 on.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.w463.de/460_560ge.htm |title=560 GE (W460) |work=W463.de |accessdate=20 February 2020}}</ref>
===Derivations===
====G-Wagen W462 ELBO (1988–?)====
This version is assembled from CDK by [[Hellenic_Vehicle_Industry|ELBO]], formerly a Steyr-Daimler-Puch branch division, in [[Thessaloniki]], [[Greece]] for [[Greek Army]]. Additionally, the CDK was also assembled at Mercedes-Benz Aksaray plant in [[Turkey]]. The engine options were 2.3-litre four-cylinder inline petrol and later 2.9-litre five-cylinder inline diesel.
====Peugeot P4 VLTT (1981-1988)====
{{Main article|Peugeot P4}}
The W460 was assembled in France under licence by Peugeot for French Army with Peugeot engine and transmission form [[Peugeot_504|504]] and [[Peugeot_604|604]] respectively as well as its own seats and wiring system. The front differential gear lock was omitted because Peugeot used its own axles. They are easily identified by rectangle headlamps.
====Puch G (1979-2000)====
The 460 was popular with military and off-road enthusiasts, with more than 50,000 built in the first decade. Mercedes-Benz initially did not sell the model in the United States, but by means of "casual importation" [[grey-market]] in the mid-1980s, importers sold a number of G-Wagens which had been modified to meet the specifications by the [[US DOT]], at about $135,000.
The agreement between Daimler-Benz AG and Steyr-Daimler-Puch stipulated that G-Wagen sold in Austria, Switzerland, Yugoslavia (and its successor states: Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia, and Slovenia), Mongolia, and Eastern European [[COMECON]] countries was called Puch G and elsewhere as Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen/G-Class. The reason for different branding was due to Puch's reputation for its all-terrain vehicles, Haflinger and Pinzgauer. Since the agreement expired in 2000, the consumers could order the retrofit kit from Magna's Puch Competence Centre to replace the Mercedes-Benz brands with Puch emblems.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.puch.at/en/spare-parts/accessories/ |title=Accessories |website=Puch |accessdate=20 February 2020}}</ref>
For the Pope John Paul II's visit to Austria in 1983, Puch emblems was used on the Papamobile instead.
The 461 is the dedicated military and parapublic service model, produced since 1990. The 462 designation was used on ELBO-made Greek army vehicles. The Peugeot P4 had its own designations.
===460 models===
====Engines====
* '''200 GE''' — M102E20 2.0 L [[Straight-4|I4]], {{convert|109|PS|kW|0|abbr=on}} at 5,200 rpm, (only sold in Italy and a few other markets)<ref>''Automobil Revue 1987'', p. 384</ref>
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, sometimes called G-Wagen (short for Geländewagen, "cross country vehicle"), is a mid-size four-wheel driveluxurySUV manufactured by Magna Steyr (formerly Steyr-Daimler-Puch) in Austria and sold by Mercedes-Benz. In certain markets, it has been sold under the Puch name as Puch G.
The G-Wagen is characterised by its boxy styling and body-on-frame construction. It uses three fully locking differentials, one of the few vehicles to have such a feature.
Despite the introduction of an intended replacement, the unibodySUVMercedes-Benz GL-Class in 2006, the G-Class is still in production and is one of the longest produced vehicles in Daimler's history, with a span of 40 years. Only the Unimog surpasses it.[4]
History
Puch GVery early, carburetted Mercedes-Benz 230 G Cabriolet
The G-class was developed as a military vehicle from a suggestion by the Emperor of Iran (at the time a significant Mercedes shareholder) to Mercedes[5] and offered as a civilian version in 1979. In this role it is sometimes referred to as the "Wolf". The Peugeot P4 was a variant made under licence in France with a Peugeot engine. The first military in the world to use it was the Argentine Army (Ejército Argentino) beginning in 1981 with the military model 461.
The development of the G-Class started in 1972 with a cooperative agreement between Daimler-Benz and Steyr-Daimler-Puch in Graz, Austria. Mercedes-Benz engineers in Stuttgart were in charge of design and testing, while the team in Graz developed the production plans. The first wooden model was presented to Daimler-Benz management in 1973, with the first drivable prototype beginning various testing including German coalfields, the Sahara Desert, and the Arctic Circle in 1974. Construction commenced on a new production facility in Graz, where the new cross-country vehicle would be assembled nearly entirely by hand in 1975, with production of the "G Model" beginning in Graz in 1979. In 1980, the Vatican took delivery of a specially made G-Wagen outfitted with a clear thermoplastic top which served as the Popemobile. The “Papa G” later took up permanent residence at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany.
The first major refinements were introduced in 1981, including an automatic transmission, air conditioning, an auxiliary fuel tank, protective headlamp grilles and a cable winch. Fuel injection became available in 1982, when the 230 GE was introduced in Turin,[6] along with more comfortable and supportive front seats, auxiliary heating, wider tires and fender flares. For 1985, differential locks, central door locking and a tachometer became standard and by 1986 over 50,000 G Models had been produced.
The G-Wagen was facelifted in 1990. In 1989, for the 10th anniversary of the G Model, a new model variant with permanent 4-wheel drive, a wood-trimmed interior and optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) debuted at the Frankfurt International Motor Show. Production began the following April. For 1992, a new sub-series for professional users began production. The civilian model began to offer cruise control, a stainless-steel spare-tire cover, running boards and Burl Walnut wood interior trim. The same year, the 100,000th G Model was built in Graz. In 1994, the model line was officially renamed the G-Class. Ventilated front disc brakes and a driver's air bag became standard. In 1996 the automatic transmission became an electronically controlled 5-speed unit. Headlamp washers, cruise control and a front passenger's air bag were added. In 1998, the range-topping G 500 with a 296 hp V 8 was introduced for series production.
For 1999 a limited run of V 8 powered "G 500 Classic" special editions marked the model's 20th anniversary. A multifunction steering wheel was added to all models. Later in the year, the new G 55 AMG debuts as the most powerful G-Class yet, with 354 hp. The U.S. market launch of the G-Class took place in 2001. New alloy wheels, a chrome grille and body-color bumpers plus a more luxurious cabin were introduced. New dynamic control systems included the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist and the 4 wheel Electronic Traction System (4 ETS). The G 55 AMG was upgraded in 2004 with a supercharged V 8 engine developing 476 hp. In Siberia in 2006, a documentary filmmaker was the first foreigner to reach the world's coldest region with a passenger vehicle in winter, driving a stock G 500 nearly 19,000 km without a single breakdown, in temperatures as frigid as −63˚F/-53 °C.
A new version was expected for 2007, but the new GL-Class did not replace the G-Wagen, and it will continue to be hand-built in Graz, Austria at an annual production of 4,000 to 6,000 units. In February 2009, Magna Steyr, an operating unit of Magna International, announced that it signed an agreement with Daimler AG to extend the production of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class at Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria until 2015. Besides the production, the further development of the G-Class by Daimler's subsidiary Mercedes-Benz Consult Graz since 1992.[7]
For 2007 the output of the G 55 AMG was raised to an even 500 hp. Bi Xenon headlamps, corner-illuminating front foglamps and new scratch-resistant nano-particle paint finishes were offered for the first time. In 2008 more-refined instrumentation and controls were included in the G-Class cabin, along with the COMAND system with hard-drive-based navigation, a rear view camera, voice control, Bluetooth and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Vatican received a new white “Popemobile,” based on a G 500. 2009 marked the 30th anniversary of the vehicle, with over 200,000 units having been manufactured in Graz since 1979.
W460 was introduced at a press event held at the off-road proving ground in Toulon, France. W460 went on sale in September 1979 with three engine choices and five body variants. Over the decade, the engine and transmission choices were expanded or updated along with more and more optional extra cost creature comforts (air conditioning, automatic transmission, power windows, etc.).
G-Wagen gained the global fame in 1980 when Mercedes-Benz built a Popemobile based on 230 G cabriolet during the first visit of Pope John Paul II in Germany.
Mercedes-Benz never exported G-Wagen officially to the United States because it was considered more of utilitian vehicle and didn't fit the American perception of what Mercedes-Benz was. During the 1980s, the grey import specialists brought W460 to the United States and modified them to meet the US regulations. In 1988, the new federal law, Motor Vehicle Safety Compliance Act, closed the loopholes and tightened up the regulations for grey imports, making it more difficult and more expensive for the registered importers to federalise W460 in a very small number. The other issue was severely underpowered engines in 230 GE, 280 GE, and 300 GD might not appeal to the Americans as it was the case with Mercedes-Benz 380 SEL in the early 1980s.
200 GE was built specifically for Italian markets and other markets where the heavy tax penalty was incurred for engines larger than 2 litres. 300 GD was the most popular model while 280 GE the most powerful. Despite the availability of turbocharged diesel engine in other Mercedes-Benz vehicles, it was never fitted to G-Wagen W460.
The rarest W460 variants were 230 GE 2.6 Brabus (1989–?), 280 GE AMG (specific years not given), and 560 GE (1993). Brabus increased the engine displacement of 2.3-litre four-cylinder inline engine to 2.6 litres, increasing the power to 114 kW (155 PS; 153 bhp). AMG modified the 2.8-litre six-cylinder inline petrol engine for more power, 134 kW (182 PS; 180 bhp). No further production information about price and number of units built were established. Only two units of 560 GE were built in 1993 as part of feasibility study that resulted in a limited series of W463 500 GE for 1993–1994 and W463 G 500 from 1998 on.[8]
Derivations
G-Wagen W462 ELBO (1988–?)
This version is assembled from CDK by ELBO, formerly a Steyr-Daimler-Puch branch division, in Thessaloniki, Greece for Greek Army. Additionally, the CDK was also assembled at Mercedes-Benz Aksaray plant in Turkey. The engine options were 2.3-litre four-cylinder inline petrol and later 2.9-litre five-cylinder inline diesel.
The W460 was assembled in France under licence by Peugeot for French Army with Peugeot engine and transmission form 504 and 604 respectively as well as its own seats and wiring system. The front differential gear lock was omitted because Peugeot used its own axles. They are easily identified by rectangle headlamps.
Puch G (1979-2000)
The agreement between Daimler-Benz AG and Steyr-Daimler-Puch stipulated that G-Wagen sold in Austria, Switzerland, Yugoslavia (and its successor states: Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia, and Slovenia), Mongolia, and Eastern European COMECON countries was called Puch G and elsewhere as Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen/G-Class. The reason for different branding was due to Puch's reputation for its all-terrain vehicles, Haflinger and Pinzgauer. Since the agreement expired in 2000, the consumers could order the retrofit kit from Magna's Puch Competence Centre to replace the Mercedes-Benz brands with Puch emblems.[9]
For the Pope John Paul II's visit to Austria in 1983, Puch emblems was used on the Papamobile instead.
For 1990, W460/W461 was extensively revised, and a new chassis number, W463, was assigned. W463 moved G-Class from the spartan and utilitian purpose to the luxury model on par of Mercedes-Benz S-Class and luxurious Range Rover. Thus, no three-door panel vans in short and long wheelbase lengths as well as barn doors in the rear were offered for W463: those features are exclusive to W461. The W461 continued in production as military and utilitian vehicles for the government agencies and non-government organisations.
The exterior was revised as to smoothen out the front end. The front fenders/wings are flattened out at the front underneath headlamps. The fender flares and front end (cooling grille and headlamp bezels) are painted in body colour. The headlamps have square and slightly recessed bezels. The cooling grille is narrower as to give space for front numberplate attached to the top of bumper. The front bumpers are form-fitted and have integrated fog lamps while the rear bumpers have the integrated red rear fog lamp and white reverse lamp. The fuel filler is now covered by panel. The side running boards are made a standard fitment. The external rear view mirrors have new housing that pivots on anchors attached to the front doors. New revised taillamps without white reverse lamps were fitted in the rear.
The interior was significantly updated with wood trim and leather upholstery for the first time. The centre console is smoothened out and better integrated with dashboard. The lower part of dashboard is covered in rubber pads for better knee protection in an event of the frontal collision. The electric differential lock switches are placed prominently in the middle of dashboard with other electric switches. The instrument cluster has smoother and more curving housing that meets the dashboard fluidly. The gauges are integrated into one panel rather than a few separate gauges attached to the instrument cluster. Climate control panel was revised to include the temperature and fan speed dials. The door panels are fully trimmed with ruffled leather paneling and soft paddings. The seats are more plush and have several defined cushions along with lumbar support.
The new features included ABS and full-time four-wheel-drive with electrically locking differentials. The engines were carried over from W460/W461, including 200 GE, 230 GE, and 300 GE for petrol engines along with 250 GD and 300 GD for diesel engines. In 1994, the Geländewagen was renamed as G-Class when the model names was revised to reflect the new corporate nomeculate.
When Mercedes-Benz didn't consider selling the G-Class in the United States for a long time, a small registered importer based in New Mexico, Europa International, Inc., began the expensive process of certifying and modifying the G-Class for the US market and started selling them in 1993. When the new G 500 was introduced in 1998, Europa International sought and received the "small-volume manufacturer status", allowing the company to be exclusive importer and distributor of G 500 in the United States. The sales success of G 500 was attributed to Europa International's clever marketing toward high-end luxury clientele and led Mercedes-Benz to the decision of purchasing the distribution rights and including G-Class in its official US model ranges.[10]
The first generation W463 had the widest range of engines ever fitted to Mercedes-Benz vehicles during its entire 28-year model run: from four to twelve cylinders; and from naturally aspiration to supercharger, turbo, and twin turbo. Toward the end of first-generation model run, W463 had the highest number of paint colour options at 22, including the bright and intense colours as part of Crazy Color Edition.
Models
W463 had the highest number of body variations and derivations of any post-war Mercedes-Benz:
two-door cabriolet
three-door station wagon with short wheelbase
four-door pick-up truck with six wheels (Mercedes-AMG G 63 6x6)
four-door cabriolet with extended wheelbase (Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet)
five-door station wagon with long wheelbase
five-door station wagon with extended wheelbase (custom built by AMG)
five-door station wagon with long wheelbase and widened track (Mercedes-Benz G 500 4x4²)
Special Models and Special Editions
500 GE (1993-1994)
A significant model was 500 GE with the first-ever V8 engine for G-Class. It was produced in a limited number from 1993 to 1994 and in 5-door long wheelbase station wagon only. The V8 engine wasn't reintroduced until 1998 when G 500 entered into a regular production.
Grand Edition (2006)
The 500 units of G 500 and G 55 AMG Grand Edition were built and shipped to the United States when Mercedes-Benz decided to end the sales of G-Class in the United States for 2006 before rescinding its decision. The exterior had an designo exclusive Allanite Grey Magno metallic paint finish and brushed aluminium trim stripes with "Grand Edition" lettering. The interior had matte-silk wood trim on dashboard and centre console, designo exclusive leather upholstery, and an door sills with illuminated "Grand Edition" lettering.
G 500 Guard (2009–2018)
It is an armoured version of long wheelbase G 500 five-door station wagon with bullet resistance level FB6 or FB7.[11]
G-Class LIMITED.30 (2009)
LIMITED.30 model is a special edition, celebrating the 30-year anniversary of Geländerwagen (1979-2009). This edition includes designo platinum black paint finish, specially designed light-alloy wheels and EDITION30 lettering on the wings. The interior has designo leather in the colour "chablis" and designo trim in anthracite poplar wood.[12]
G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR "Edition 79" (2009)
Like LIMITED.30 special edition, "Edition 79" is exclusive to Middle East market, celebrating the sales launch in 1979. This edition includes designo magno alanite grey paint finish, a crash bar at the front, carbon fibre side trim stripes, 19-inch AMG wheels with titanium finish, chrome protection grilles for front turn signal indicators, designo leather upholstery in black/sand colour, carbon fibre dashboard and centre console trims, Edition logo "1 out of 79" placed in front of gear selector. The vehicle was unveiled in 2009 Dubai International Motor Show.[13]
BA3 Final Edition and Edition Selection (2011)
The BA3 Final Edition was launched in 2011 to mark the final production run of three-door short wheelbase station wagon. The single model variation was G 350 CDI BlueTEC. This farewell special is distinguished by body-coloured AMG flared wheel arches with 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, carbon optics stripes, an AMG radiator grille, 18-inch alloys, and extra chrome trims inside and outside, black leather interior offset by walnut burr veneers and ambient lighting.
At the same time, Mercedes-Benz offered the "Edition Select" special model for the five-door model, G 500. Edition Selection applies the same special edition treatment to G 500/G 550 even though the five-door long wheelbase station wagon would continue for a several more years.[14]
G 55 AMG long "mastermind" Limited (2012)
As a brand awareness collaboration for the Fashion Week, Mercedes-Benz Japan and mastermind JAPAN built five units for Japanese market. Externally, the chrome trims and wheels were done in black paint finish, and two stickers affixed to the side panels in the rear. The mastermind JAPAN skull and bone badges were affixed to the headrests and spare wheel cover. The interior was done in black leather trim with roof liner done in light grey Alcantara.[15]
G 550 Night Edition (2013–2015)
Exclusive to Japanese market, 100 units of G 550 Night Edition were produced with black paint finish, AMG badge on the front fenders/wings, and five twin-spoke aluminium wheels finished in titanium grey colour. Two choices of interior colours were offered: porcelain white (60 units) and classic red (40 units). The dashboard and centre console were trimmed with designo piano lacquer black wood. The roof liner was Alcantara in anthracite colour. The sales price was ¥13,900,000 JPY[16]
G-Class Cabriolet "Final Edition 200" (2013–2014)
To commemorate the production end of two-door cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz introduced the "Final Edition 200" with G 500 being only model variation. All of 200 units had been sold out prior to its premiere at 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show. Externally, the soft top and tonneau cover are in beige colour; radiator grille in chrome; 5-spoke light-alloy wheels in titanium grey; and "Final Edition 200" badge on B-pillar. The interior received the designo leather seats and door panels in ecru colour with black trim, satin-finished light brown poplar wood trim, and AMG performance steering wheel.[17]
Continuing with the G 63 AMG 6×6 formula, Mercedes-Benz introduced the G 500 4×4², using the body of long wheelbase 5-door station wagon on shortened chassis from G 63 AMG 6×6. G500 4×4² along with G 500/G 550 received a new 4.0-litre biturbo V8 (M176), putting out 310 kW (416 hp). The exterior is same as Mercedes-AMG G 63 and G 65 despite G 500 4×4² not being a Mercedes-AMG edition.[18]
Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet (2017)
Following the success of G 63 AMG 6×6 and G 500 4×4², Mercedes-Benz introduced the first SUV under the sub-brand name Mercedes-Maybach at Geneva Motor Show in March 2017.[19] G 650 Landaulet used the extended chassis with the portal axles and raised suspension system from G 500 4×4². The rear end of G 650 Landaulet was built from the rear part of W463 cabriolet with folding fabric roof covering the rear half of body behind the B-pillar. The rear passenger doors with no wheel-opening cut-out were from the G 55 with extended wheelbase (2001). The front end is from Mercedes-AMG G 65 with more chrome trims. The light alloy wheels and extendable side running boards are chrome plated. The powertrain is from G 65 with 463 kW (621 hp) biturbo V12.
The interior is supplicated in ultimate luxury as found in Mercedes-Maybach GLS-Class and S-Class. Like the original Maybach 62 Landaulet, a division wall is installed behind the driver and front passenger. The second row seats are moved further back from the rear passenger doors and are same rear seats in from Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. A second set of control panel and centre console is installed behind the division wall toward the rear. The dashboard above the second set is one set of two front passenger's dashboard with glove box and hold two large LED monitors.
The sales price was €749,700, and the production was limited to 99 units.[20]
Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet
The rear view of the Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet
AMG Models
500 GE 6.0 AMG (1993)
For the first time, an AMG version of G-Class was offered in 1993 with 500 GE 6.0 AMG. The M 117.965 E 50 engine was bored from 5.0 to 6.0 litres, outputting 243 kW (326 hp) and 460 N⋅m (339 lb⋅ft). The increased output did not make 500 GE 6.0 AMG much faster with 10.9 seconds for 0-100km/h. Only thirteen units were built.[21]
G 36 AMG (1994-1995)
After AMG entered into the co-operation with Mercedes-Benz in 1993, the G 36 AMG was introduced and fitted with M104.992, same engine found in C 36 AMG and E 36 AMG.
G 63 AMG V12 (2002)
The G 63 AMG V12 was one-off special edition with only five units built in 2002. It was first G-Class with V12 engine before Mercedes-AMG officially introduced more powerful G 65 AMG. The engine was also fitted to 2001 S 63 AMG V12 built in a very extremely limited number. The engine produced 326 kW (437 hp) and propelled G 63 AMG to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds.
G 55 AMG (2002–2003) and G 55 AMG Kompressor (2004–2012)
G 55 AMG
]
Citing the sales success of G 500 in the United States and the absorption of AMG into DaimlerChrysler AG, Mercedes-Benz began to expand the AMG versions to several models, including G-Class. To coincide with the official launch of G-Class in the United States, Mercedes-Benz introduced G 55 AMG along with G 500 in 2001 for 2002 model year. The G 55 AMG visually did not differ from G 500 other than side exhaust pipes, wider tyres, AMG five-spoke wheels, chrome tip at bottom of front bumper, and AMG lettering in the rear. G 55 AMG became the favourite of celebrities and wealthy people.
For 2005 model year, AMG revised G 55 AMG by adding the supercharger to the 5.4-litre V8 engine, increasing the output to 350 kW (469 hp). To differentiate G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR from G 500 visually, AMG changed the radiator grille to three thick fins, added the embossed metal KOMPRESSOR lettering underneath V8 badge on the front fenders/wings, and introduced new light-alloy wheels in titanium grey and three new metallic paint colours (Calcite White, Periclase Green, and Teallite Blue). The 0–100 km/h acceleration is reduced from 7.4 to 5.6 seconds. Yet, the top speed remained at 210 km/h. The engine was upgraded again for 2006 to 368 kW (493 hp) then again to 373 kW (500 hp) for 2008.
G 63 AMG (2012–2018)
G 63 AMG at Legendary 2014
The supercharged 5.4-litre V8 was replaced by the new 5.5-litre biturbo V8 for 2012 for better fuel consumption and lower emission. AMG made some more changes to the exterior as to give G 63 AMG more "brawl" appearance: single horizontal fin with twin chrome edges in the middle of radiator grille with more prominent three-point star ornament in the middle; new light-alloy wheel design; three enlarged airflow inlets on both sides and in middle of front bumper; vertical chrome stripes cover the small bumper guards; exterior rear-view mirrors are same as in GL-Class and ML-Class. The mechanical upgrade was AMG sports exhaust system with high-gloss chrome inserts, larger AMG high performance brakes with six-piston fixed calipers for front brakes from ML 63 AMG, and revised suspension and damper settings for more dynamic handling characteristics. The new E-SELECT gear selector from Mercedes-Benz SLS replaced the standard gear selector.
For 2015, the name was changed to Mercedes-AMG G 63.
The G 63 AMG V12, built in 2002, demonstrated the feasibility of installing the V12 engine in G-Class. The new G 65 AMG was introduced at the same time as G 63 AMG, making G 65 AMG the third passenger SUV to have V12 engine with Lamborghini LM002 (built from 1986 to 1993) being the first one. G 65 AMG was equipped the same as G 63 AMG other than minor cosmetic difference with V12 BITURBO on the side of front fenders/wings and floor mats and seat backs with V12 badges.
Like G 63, the name was changed to Mercedes-AMG G 65 for 2015.
To celebrate the thirty-plus years of robustness, functionality, and outstanding off-road capabilities in G-Class, Mercedes-Benz introduced the new stretched version with six-wheel-drive system and portal axles.[22][23] G 63 AMG 6×6 was derived from one developed specifically for Australian Army in 2007. Despite the heavy weight and large dimension, G 63 AMG 6×6 could accelerate to 100 km/h in six seconds and reach the top speed of 160 km/h.
The consumer reception to G 63 AMG 6×6 was stronger than anticipated, and Mercedes-Benz sold slightly more than 100 units with last customer delivery taking place in May 2015.[24]
Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG 6×6
The rear view of the Mercedes-Benz G 63 6×6
Mercedes-Benz G 63 6×6 dashboard
Mercedes-Benz G 63 6×6 tyre pressure regulation switches
It is an armoured patrol vehicle developed with EADS, based on LAPV 5.4. It included a diesel engine, 1.3 tonnes cargo capacity, monocoque full steel body, compact 2850mm wheelbase, modular armour plate and mine deflector plate underneath floor, adjustable variable lift front and rear coil-over air shock absorbers with maximum 450mm of ground clearance, and hydraulic braking system with four ventilated disc brakes. EADS provided the communication technology: vehicle data recorder system, integrated communication system for UHF or VHF bands, integrated mobile command, control and information system, and jamming system. The vehicle was unveiled in EUROSATORY 2010.[25]
Ener-G-Force (2012)
Ener-G-Force was a concept vehicle in response to the Los Angeles Design Challenge 2012 for the future police car. The vehicle was unveiled at the 2012 LA Auto Show. The concept vehicle was hydrogen-powered with fuel cells generating the electricity to the electric motors inside the wheel hubs. The roof rack contained the water tanks with hydrogen converter, and the body included the three-panel greenhouse, 20-inch wheels, side skirts illuminating the charge and operation status of energy packs.[26][27]
Mercedes-Benz Ener-G Force
The rear view of the Mercedes-Benz Ener-G Force
Marketing
W463 was positioned as a luxury passenger vehicle in mind as to compete with Range Rover. After Mercedes-Benz launched G-Class in the United States with G 500 and G 55 AMG, G-Class became very popular with celebrities, film stars, and wealthy people. The G-Class has appeared in numerous films, television series, and music videos ever since.[28]
As part of Mercedes-Benz's attempt to demonstrate the off-road capability of G-Class SUV, seven G-Class vehicles took a journey from Halls Creek in Western Australia to Wiluna. However, shock absorbers on six of the vehicles (5 civilian G 350 and 1 military models) were broken during their trip in the corrugations of Canning Stock Route in day 7. Mercedes-Benz Australia later arranged for the replacement shock absorbers to land in Perth, before transferring to a light plane destined for a remote Aboriginal settlement close to Well 33, about 1000 km from Wiluna. The parts would be delivered by the sole surviving vehicle, a G-Professional.[29][30]
End of Production Debacle and Revised Decisions
Mercedes-Benz announced that 2005 would be the final year of G-Class to be sold in the United States, citing the new GL-Class as the successor of G-Class. The 500 units of G 500 and G 55 AMG Grand Edition were built and shipped to the United States. However, the unexpected order placed by the U.S. Marine Corps for 157 Interim Fast Attack Vehicle (IFAV) based on G-Class, replacing its ageing, slow, and cumbersome Desert Patrol Vehicles. This caused Mercedes-Benz to rescind its decision and to continue offering the G-Class in the United States.
This Grand Edition also led to the rumours of production end for W463 in 2006. A few factors contributed to the rumors: the increasingly difficulties in meeting the newer and stricter safety and emission regulations, especially the new EU regulations on pedestrian protection; Mercedes-Benz had introduced new GL-Class as an intended successor; and military contracts fulfilled. An outcry among enthusiasts who admired the G-Class for its tremendous off-road potential along with its reputation and cachet, showed that a market still existed for such a vehicle. On 11 November 2005, Dr. Dieter Zetsche, DaimlerChrysler Board of Management member and head of the Mercedes Car Group, announced that G-Class production would continue. At Paris Motor Show in September 2006, Mercedes-Benz reiterated that the G-Class will continue to be manufactured through 2015 due to the strong worldwide demand by both civilian and military buyers.[31] Daimler AG extended the manufacturing contract with Magna Steyr to continue producing W463 until 2017.
In late 2017 the production end of first generation W463 was announced with the heavily reengineered and updated successor to be introduced in 2018 for 2019 model year.[32]
Updates (1990–2018)
1994 Update
The update was minor with model designation revised to reflect the new nomenculate system and with enlarged six-cylinder inline petrol engine for G 320, replacing G 300. The Italy-only 200 GE/G 200 and 230 GE/G 230 were dropped, marking the end of era for the G-Class with the four-cylinder inline engine. After 200 GE/G 200, 230 GE/G 230, and 300 GE/G 300 were dropped in 1994, the manual transmission was dropped from W463 for good. The steering wheel received the driver's side airbag.
1997 Update
The W463 received its mechanical update in 1997. The update included the new power-assisted folding mechanism for its convertible. The engine range was revised with six-cylinder engines shifting from inline to V-form for both petrol and diesel versions. G 500 was reintroduced with a new V8 petrol engine. In 2002, Mercedes-Benz officially launched the G-Class in the United States for the first time since its inception in 1979 with G 500 and G 55 AMG. W463 received the dual airbags for driver and front passenger.
2002 Update
The external rear-view mirrors were revised with integrated the side turn signal repeaters and power-assisted mirror control, eliminating the separate turn signal indicators attached to the body. The front and rear turn signal indicators received the clear lens. The newly-revised headlamps for both American and international markets had the clear glass lens. The interior was updated with more creature comforts and better control switches.
2005 Update
Mercedes-Benz announced the new G 55 AMG Kompressor model with more powerful supercharged V8 engine, replacing the naturally aspirated V8 engine. The G 500 was renamed as G 550 for the US and certain markets.
2006 Update
The minor update revised the engine range with new 3.2-litre V6 diesel engine in G 320 CDI, replacing both G 270 CDI and G 400 CDI. The G 500 and G 55 AMG Kompressor continued unchanged. G 320 with petrol engine was dropped, marking the suspension of six-cylinder petrol engine until 2018. G 55 AMG Kompressor remained as five-door station wagon while G 320 CDI and G 500 were offered in three body styles: two-door cabriolet and station wagons with three-door short and five-door long wheelbases.
2007 Update
Mercedes-Benz showcased the heavily revised 2007 model at the Paris Motor Show in September 2006 with more emphasis on updated interior, engine range, and new safety equipments.[33]
For 2007, G-Class received its first high-intensity discharge headlamps, reversing camera, and tire pressure monitoring system (the latter two are federally mandated safety equipments for the United States). G 500 can be fitted with the sports side exhaust pipes from G 55 AMG for extra cost. The power output for G 55 AMG was increased from 350 kW (469 hp) to 3,680 kW (4,935 hp).
The interior received the new instrument cluster with four chrome-trimmed round gauges from C-Class and the new four-spoke multi-function steering wheel with options of full leather cover or combination of leather and wood cover. The centre console was updated with new control switches for vehicle's functions and climate control panel along with new COMAND APS infotainment and navigation system. In conjunction with reversing camera, Comand APS displays the rear view and graph representation of distance and width, assisting the drivers during the reversing course. The new ARTICO upholstery colour, cognac, was added to black and grey interior colour options.
2008 Update
The 2008 update included the new radiator grille with three thicker horizontal fins, replacing the previous seven, thinner fins. The COMAND APS infotainment and navigation system was revised with many new or extended functionalities such as LINGUATRONIC voice control system, 12-speaker Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound stereo system, TV tuner, special off-road menu for G 320 CDI and G 500 model. The front seats with heated and climatised system were offered.
The G 500/G 550 was updated with new 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine with 285 kW (382 hp), replacing the 5.0-litre 218 kW (292 hp) version. The new engine improved the acceleration for G 500/G 550.
2009 Update
For the 30th anniversary of production, Mercedes-Benz offered two special anniversary editions. One was G 500/G 550 with more opulent interior and exclusive designo leather upholstery along with special decals. Another one was a new utility model, G 280 CDI Edition 30 PUR, consisting of W461 chassis with 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine (OM 642 DE LA red.) and the W463 four-wheel-drive system.
2012 Update
G 63 AMG with revised front end
After its last major update in 2007, the interior received the completely redesigned instrument panel and centre console adapted from ML-Class. The COMAND APS touchscreen and control panel were moved up toward the top of dashboard for easier viewing and operating. The COMAND APS was updated with MBrace2 telematics system. Additional safety features included DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, revised PARKTRONIC reverse sensors and rear-view camera, and revised ATS4 stability control for improved trailer stabilising functionality.
Externally, G-Class received the horizontal bars of LED daytime running lamps underneath the headlamps and the new external side rear-view mirrors shared with GL-Class and ML-Class models. The AMG version received the new front bumper with three large air intakes.
The 5.4-litre supercharged V8 was replaced by new 5.5-litre biturbo V8 for increased performance. Topping out the G-Class model range was a new G 65 AMG with 6-litre biturbo V12 petrol engine. Two models were carried over unchanged: G 350 CDI BlueTEC and G 500/G 550.[34]
Technical Data
Engine (1990–2018)
Notes: (m) and (a) denote "manual" and "automatic" transmissions where applicable. Fuel Consumption marked with * denotes the older EEC regulation of "urban, 90 km/h, and 120 km/h" (U/90/120). Top Speed with ** denotes the "electronically limited".
In contrast to its predecessor, the new G-Class has grown in width by 121 millimeters, and 53 millimeters in length, and now has 6 millimeters more ground clearance.[35] Compared to its predecessor with the same engine, the weight savings are around 170 kilograms.[36] Despite all this, the vehicle visually differs very little from the W463 and the previous model code (W463) was retained.[37][38][39][40]
Due to the age of the basic concept of the previous model, the technical changes are significant. Among other things, the front axle now has independent suspension instead of a rigid axle; the rear axle remains solid. The low range gear ratio was shortened from 2.1: 1 to 2.9: 1. The new model now has the familiar digital cockpit from the S-class.
At launch only the G 500 (550 as US specs) was offered.[41]
The New G-Class features an updated interior with dual 12 inch LCD display for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. Mercedes also added Apple Carplay and Android Auto as an option for the second generation G-Class as well. The G-class also received updated seats and upholstery with ambient lightning with up to 64 colors to choose from the infotainment system. The G-Class was also updated with a suite of safety features such as PRE-SAFE, ATTENTION ASSIST, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Brake Assist, and more of the Mercedes line of safety systems pioneered in the W222 S-Class that have never been featured in a G-class before. Other options include a 360 degree surround sound, frameless auto dimming rear view mirror and upgraded Burmester surround sound system compared to the Harman Kardon system found in the previous G-Class W463.[42]
In terms of pricing, the new G 500 has gone on sale in the United States at a starting price of $125,495 with the upgraded AMG G 63 starting at $144,695. The 2019 G-Class for the US market has widest range of exterior colour palette, totalling 24 colours, even for Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles.[43]
Since the 2010s, the Algerian Army, Gendarmerie Nationale and the Algerian police have been using several models of G-Class vehicles 4x4 6x6 G 500. Most of those vehicles are manufactured in Bouchekif factory Tiaret, owned by the Algerian army.[1] First G-Class wagons released in 2015.[45][46]
In October 2007, Mercedes-Benz became the preferred tenderer for the Australian Defence Force to replace the fleet of Land Rover Perentie in Project Land 121 Overlander.[48] Mercedes-Benz was the sole tenderer with neither Toyota for the Land Cruiser or Land Rover for the Defender submitting a proposal. In October 2008, an initial contract for 1200 vehicles was signed.[49] 2,268 vehicles were purchased with ten variants including 6x6.[50][51] Australia is the first military customer to receive 6×6 vehicles and these are the first six-wheel military vehicles built by Mercedes-Benz since 1941.[52]
A total of 1,159 vehicles have been ordered by the Canadian Army beginning in late 2003.[53] 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.[54]
Delivery of these vehicles to Reserve units has also begun. They will be deployed 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.[55]
Croatia bought 300 to 320 vehicles for needs of Croatian army and for operations in Afghanistan additional 30 RG-31 vehicles were delivered. Croatia uses mix of 4×4 vehicles in peacekeeping operations and the G-Class is a very popular choice within the Croatian Army. G-Class is supplemented by Land Rover Wolf and Iveco LMV.
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.[56] First deliveries of the 240 GD were in 1985 and later the 290 GD (/24 and /28 variants) were 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.[57] Currently the Danes are taking delivery of over 2,000 270CDIs in several variants, starting in 2003.[58]
The Egyptian Army uses the G 320 (4 × 4) armoured personnel carrier has been designed as a private venture by the Kader Factory for Developed Industries and is based on the chassis of the commercial German Mercedes-Benz MB 320G (4 × 4) light vehicle. This vehicle is based on the long-wheelbase version of the German Mercedes-Benz G 320 4 × 4 with the chassis frame being modified by a heavy-duty suspension which has been designed to withstand the additional weight imposed by the armour package.[59]
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. In the 1970s the cheaper Volkswagen Iltis was preferred; now the Iltis is replaced by the "Wolf" and the armoured variant LAPV Enok.
The Greek Army as well as Air Force, Navy and Police have several versions (462) of the Geländewagen, manufactured by ELBO the Hellenic Vehicles Industry.[2]
The Hungarian Ground Forces have 233 of G-270 CDI BA 10, which is mounted with UMF light-machine gun platform, and 5 of G-280 CDI BA6 C+R SSA FB6. More will be purchased between 2010 and 2013.
Paspampres (Indonesian Presidential Security forces) are using G 270 CDI for their fleet with SIRINA lights, Gunner Roof Mount, Bullbar, Black Grill, Roof and Rear View Mirror Handles. New model of G 300 CDI in 2010 acquired not less than 30 units for presidential and vice-presidential escort purposes. The Paspampres uses black G 300 CDI with the Military Police in white and ensigns with Indonesian MP insignia.
The Mexican naval defense secretary (SEMAR) announced in 2008, a contract to purchase large numbers of Mercedes-Benz military vehicles for the Mexican Marine corps. As of May 16, 2009 The SEMAR has received 20 of the 84 G-Class vehicles in order.[64][65]
The Royal Netherlands Army uses various versions of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, mostly 461 290GD manual gearbox, 290GD TD manual gearbox models and a 280cdi V6 model with automatic gearbox. The Dutch police and Koninklijke Marechaussee also use the G-Class. Most of the police versions are armored 463 models.
The Norwegian Army bought 240 GD to replace Volvo and Land Rover 4×4 vehicles 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 G 500 AMG with police lights on the roof.
Police, state security units, military and governmental agencies are using the G-Class. Mostly civilian versions in black. Security escort vehicles for both the President and Prime Minister are black G 500 and G 55 AMG.
The Serbian Military currently uses Puch 300GD model. They also uses the following models 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 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.
The Swedish Army uses MB 290/T (1994)MB 290GD (2000)MB 270 CDI(2005) The GW is to be the main light terrain vehicle in the Swedish armed forces in the future. In 2011 a framework agreement was signed between FMV and Daimler AG. An initial contract for 105 300 CDI was signed.[71][72]
The Swiss Armed Forces 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. From 2014, the Steyr Daimler Puch 230 GE is going to be gradually replaced by the Mercedes-Benz G 300 CDI 4x4 hardtop version, starting with a first series of 3200 vehicles.
The British Army used a number of these vehicles in Iraq during Operation Telic, particularly around the Baghdad and Rustamiyah areas. The British Commanders'-in-Chief Mission to the Soviet Forces in Germany (BRIXMIS) also used a small number. An Argentine Army G-Class captured by the British Army during the Falklands War was subsequently used by No. 18 Squadron RAF in West Germany for several years.[73]
Police, state security units, military and governmental agencies are using the G-Class. Mostly civilian versions in black. Security escort vehicles for both the President and Prime Minister are black G 500 and G 55 AMG.
USMC IFAV The USMCInterim Fast Attack Vehicle (IFAV) is a modified version of the Mercedes-Benz Geländewagen 290. It replaces the modified M-151A21⁄4 ton truck 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)
In the late 1990s the USMC acquired the G-Class model as the Interim Fast Attack Vehicle (IFAV), which was essentially a '97 to '01 DaimlerChrysler model 290 GDT, a diesel-power 2-door with a pick-up bed.[74] This was compact and light enough to be transported inside a Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion Helicopter.[74]
Bodystyles
Code
Bodywork
Wheelbase
Notes
1
Convertible with fixed windshield
2400
Only civilian types: 460 and 463
2
Van
2400
Only 460/461 and military types
3
Station Wagon
2400
All types except Professional and Greenline military types
4
Van
2850
Only 460/461/Professional/Worker and military types
5
Pick-up
2850
Only 460/461 types and G 63 6x6(W463)
6
Station Wagon
2850
All types
7
Convertible with folding windshield
2400
Only military types
8
Code unused
N/A
N/A
9
Chassis Cab
3120
Only 460/461 and military types
9,1
Chassis Cab
3400
Only 460/461/Professional and military types
10
Convertible with folding windshield
2850
Only military types
11
Chassis Double Cab
3120
Only 460/461 and military types
11,1
Chassis Double Cab
3400
Only 460/461 and military types
11,2
Chassis Double Cab 6×6
3400
Only Greenline military types
Sales
United States
The Mercedes-Benz G 500 was officially launched in 2002 as the G 500, and achieved 3114 sales that year.[75] This eventually tapered down to some sub-1000 sales years, but by the 2010s sales began to increase again surpassing 3000 in 2014 and in 2015 it sold more than in its launch year, 3616.[75]
In 2005, then Mercedes-AMG Chairman said that one third of all G-Class vehicles sold to civilians are the G 55 AMG model. The largest markets for G 55s were California, United States (in black and silver color mostly), and the United Arab Emirates with Dubai (in white color mostly) [76] For 2017 the Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4² is announced for introduction to the U.S. market as the G 550 4x4² as a 2017 model.[77]
It was not available from Mercedes-Benz in the United States until 2002, although this was preceded by a grey-market where even basic models commanded six-figure prices in the 1990s. It was launched in 2002 as the Mercedes-Benz G 500 with a V-8 petrol engine and achieved 3,114 sales that year.[75] This eventually tapered down to fewer than 1,000 models sold in some years. However, in the 2010s, sales began to increase again surpassing the 3,000 mark in 2014 and in 2015, it sold more than during its launch year; with 3,616 sold that year.[75] In 2016 this increased to 3950 in the United States.[75][78] Canada saw a similar increase; although a smaller market compared to the United States, it saw sales increase from 127 in 2012 to over 400 in 2016.[75]
^Büschi, Hans-Ulrich, ed. (5 March 1987). Automobil Revue 1987 (in German and French). Vol. 82. Berne, Switzerland: Hallwag AG. p. 382. ISBN3-444-00458-3.
^Ridgway, Steve (13 November 2008). "$350m wagon deal"(PDF). Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper (1202 ed.). Canberra, Australia: Department of Defence. ISSN0729-5685. Archived(PDF) from the original on 27 August 2016. Retrieved 8 August 2016.
^"G Wagon". Australian Army. Archived from the original on 17 August 2016. Retrieved 8 August 2016.
^Duff, Craig (13 September 2012). "Merc G-wagons for military". Cars Guide (in The Daily Telegraph). pp. 21–22 (90–91). Retrieved 16 September 2012. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |work= (help)
^Батлан хамгаалах салбарт 140 мянган еврогийн vнэ бvхий 10 машин бэлэглэлээ. "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2012-07-06. Retrieved 2012-07-18.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
Barrett, Frank (1998). Illustrated Buyer's Guide Mercedes-Benz. Motorbooks International Illustrated Buyer's Guide series (2nd ed.). Osceola, WI, USA: MBI Publishing. ISBN0-7603-0451-3.
Bolsinger, Markus; Lengert, Axel; Peters, Wolfgang (2013). Legend – The G Class: from 1979 to today. Bielefeld, Germany: Delius Klasing. ISBN9783768836241.
Breuninger, Martin (1993). Das G-Buch: Alles über den Geländewagen von Mercedes-Benz [The G Book: Everything about the Geländewagen from Mercedes-Benz] (in German). Radolfzell, Germany: Tufa. ASINB002UNICHS.
Breuninger, Martin (1995). Das G-Reisebuch – mit dem Geländewagen von Mercedes-Benz unterwegs [The G Travel Book: On the move with the Geländewagen from Mercedes-Benz] (in German). Radolfzell, Germany: Tufa. ASINB002UNICIM.
Breuninger, Martin (2004). The Legend Keeps on Driving: 25 Years of Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Radolfzell, Germany: Tufa. ISBN0962554154.
Füngeling, Michael (2001). Das große Mercedes-G-Buch Baureihen 460, 461, 463 [The Big Mercedes G Book 460, 461, 463 series]. Ein Off-road-Sachbuch series (in German) (2nd, expanded ed.). Ottobrunn: AC Verlag. ISBN3930193248.
García Loperena, Gastón Javier (2018). Mercedes-Benz G en el Ejército Argentino (in Spanish). Buenos Aires, Argentina: 1884 Círculo Militar. ISBN9789874112156.
Long, Brian (2016). Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen: 1979 to 2015. Mercedes-Benz Veloce series. Dorchester, England: Veloce Publishing Ltd. ISBN978-1845847777.
Sand, Jörg (2011). Das Neue Große Mercedes G-Klasse-Buch [The New Big Mercedes G Class Book] (in German) (updated and revised ed.). Königswinter, Germany: Heel. ISBN9783868524710.
Seper, Hans[in German] (2009). 100 Jahre Steyr 1864–1964 [100 Years of Steyr 1864–1964] (in German) (3rd (facsimile) ed.). Gnas, Austria: Weishaupt Verlag. ISBN9783705902909.
Sippel, Kai (2007). Das G-Modell als Einsatzfahrzeug. Mercedes-Benz/Puch – Geländewagen im Behördendienst [The G Model as Emergency Vehicle: Mercedes-Benz/Puch Geländewagen in Public Service] (in German). Kai Sippel. ISBN9783000218422.
Skarics, Rudolf (editor-in-chief) (1999). 100 Years of Steyr-Daimler-Puch Graz 1899–1999. Graz, Austria: Steyr-Daimler-Puch. ISBN3950110712. {{cite book}}: |first= has generic name (help)
Stroh, Gari M. (2008). Overland: A Mercedes-Benz Journey Through the Americas. West Palm Beach, FL, USA: StarGroup International. ISBN9781884886911.
Storz, Alexander Franc (2013). Mercedes G-Modell – seit 1979. Schrader-Typen-Chronik series (in German) (revised ed.). Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN9783613035829.
Taylor, James (1994). Mercedes-Benz since 1945: A Collector's Guide. Vol. Volume 4: The 1980s. Croydon, UK: Motor Racing Publications. pp. 89–96. ISBN0947981772. {{cite book}}: |volume= has extra text (help)
Sand, Jörg (2008). Das Mercedes-Benz G-Klasse Schrauberhandbuch: reparieren und optimieren leicht gemacht [The Mercedes-Benz G Class Gearheads' Handbook: repairing and optimizing made easy] (in German). Königswinter, Germany: Heel. ISBN9783898807180.
Mercedes-Benz G / Puch G / 240 GD, 300 GD bis 1989; 300 GD ab 1990; 230 G, 230 GE bis 1984; 230 GE ab 1985; 280 GE, 250 GD ab 1988. Reparaturanleitung, Band 1201. (in German) (3rd ed.). Zug, Switzerland: Verlag Bucheli. 2011. ISBN9783716819203.
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Albania
Algeria
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Canada
Croatia
Denmark
East Timor
Egypt
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Indonesia
Iraq
Ireland
Kosovo
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malaysia
Mexico
Mongolia
Netherlands
North Korea
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Russia
Serbia
Singapore
Slovenia
Slovakia
Sweden
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Ukraine
United States
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