Despite its old-school looks the Mercedes-Benz G 400 d is packed with new technology… and a potent 243kW/700Nm 3.0L six-cylinder turbo-diesel donk. The Mercedes-Benz G 400 d has joined the G-Wagen line-up alongside the potent petrol-V8 powered Mercedes-AMG G 63.…
The Mercedes-Benz G 400 d has joined the G-Wagen line-up alongside the potent petrol-V8 powered Mercedes-AMG G 63.
The new G 400 d runs a 3.0-litre OM 656 turbo-diesel engine that pumps out a claimed 243kW of power and 700Nm of torque. And while the G 400 d might run old-tech live axles front and rear, and mechanical lockers in all three diffs, the engine packs some seriously new tech:
The 3.0L straight-six features variable valve lift on the exhaust side for better emission control; Formula 1-inspired NANOSLIDE technology to reduce friction and resist wear; high-tech steel pistons; two-stage turbocharging; and the use of lightweight aluminium for the crankcase and cylinder head.
The engine is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and as well as the impressive performance (a claimed 0-100km/h time of 6.4 seconds, no less), M-B claims a combined fuel consumption figure of 9.5L/100km for the G 400 d.
Under the body resides tough separate chassis (up to 3.4mm tick) architecture while the coil springs are controlled by adaptive damping said to be able to “withstand greater forces than standard passive shock absorbers and also offer improved on-road performance”.
All that on- and off-road performance and economy doesn’t come cheap though; the Mercedes-Benz G 400 d will retail for $233,900 +ORC when it lands in Australian dealerships in July this year. It is, however, “comprehensively appointed”, according to M-B.
Standard kit includes a 15-speaker Burmester sound system; electronically adjustable and heated leather front seats; three-zone climate control; an Off-Road Information Centre with altitude, compass, body angle, wheel angle and inclination; a multifunction steering wheel in Nappa leather; Parking Package including Parking Assist PARKTRONIC and a 360° camera; LED headlights; and a sliding glass sunroof with tilt function and interior blind.
Oh, and check out that dash and the instrument binnacles. The G 400 d’s COMAND infotainment system is rendered across two 12.3-inch digital screens. It incorporates navigation with 3D map and dynamic route guidance, DAB+ digital radio and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
On the outside, the G 400 d wears stainless steel trim, chrome elements, dark tinted glass behind the B-pillar, metallic paint and 19-inch eight-spoke light alloy wheels.
The G 400 d also scores a comprehensive suite of safety kit including Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Traffic Sign Assist and PRE-SAFE system.
Take note Land Rover; apparently you can update an old design 4X4 with separate chassis and live axles. Ineos Automotive agrees…
