The New Mercedes G-Class Has Arrived Early Thanks To An Image Leak

Here it is: the new Mercedes G-Class. No, really - it might look just like the old one, but don’t be fooled. The styling changes are best described as evolutionary (read: minimal), but the latest G-Wagen is wider, has a whole new interior, has pinched a load of tech from the S-Class, and will receive new engines. Oh, and it’s here early.

We weren’t supposed to be seeing the vehicle until 15 January at the Detoit Auto Show, but a full set of images has been leaked. They confirm that - adopting a similar approach to the new Jeep with its new Wrangler - Mercedes hasn’t played much with the SUV’s iconic styling.

The interior - as revealed by official images released a few weeks ago - has the same dual 12.3-inch screen instrument binnacle/infotainment setup as the E-Class, CLS and S-Class, while the lower section of the centre console shares its design with multiple cars from Stuttgart’s current line-up.

The steering wheel’s smarter than before, too. It has touch sensitive controls that “respond to swiping motions in the same way as the surface of a smartphone,” while providing haptic and audible feedback.

The new G-Class sits on the tried-and-trusted ladder frame of its predecessor, rather than a more modern monocoque setup. And yes, it still has a trio of locking differentials. But the front suspension setup is all-new, the frame is stiffer, and the body more rigid. Plus, the whole car will be significantly lighter due to the extensive use of aluminium in its construction.

When it comes to engines, we can expect Mercedes’ new straight-six diesel to make an appearance, as well as a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 in a thoroughly silly AMG version. No prizes for guessing which one we’re most looking forward to…