It takes almost forty-five years the top of the Mercedes range. In almost unchanged form! G-Class, formerly “Geländewagen” it is a completely separate model in terms of its history and its positioning in the manufacturer’s range. What was once a country SUV has become a luxury SUV. It all started in the 1970s, Mercedes-Benz was asked to respond military tender. It is about developing an all-terrain vehicle capable of going anywhere and carrying large loads. The German manufacturer did not have such a car in its range at that time. He however, it had already mastered four-wheel drive thanks to the Unimog 4X4 truck released in 1951. The “Geländewagen” project for “all-terrain vehicles” in German is planned in parallel with these military versions civilian version for professionals and private individuals.

4X4 for military, civilians and professionals

The final version of the “G Wagen”, as it will be known for a long time was presented to the press in February 1979. Offered in two body shapes. As a convertible (two doors) or as a station wagon (two or four doors depending on the length of the selected wheelbase). Sheet metal versions in two lengths are also available for professionals. And the military? They are attracted by the craft, and several armies around the world ordered the first Mercedes 4X4. In Europe, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and the Netherlands will equip their official fleets with it.

An agreement was signed in France between Mercedes and Peugeot to produce under license G Wagen: Peugeot P4. In 1981, 15,000 copies of this model were ordered. She got a revised face, 604 gearboxes and 504 gasoline and diesel units. Final assembly is provided by the plant in Sochaux, which will be handed over in 1985 on Panhard in Marol-en-Yurepois (91). In parallel with these military orders, the G Wagen was a great success with individuals. In 1989, it pushes Mercedes to ennoble…

Half a million Geländewagen

To compete with the Range Rover and ride the new wave of recreational four-wheel drives, the Geländewagen was updated that year. He inherits completely revised interior befitting a higher level. Sublimated by the acceptance of the Mercedes W124. In 1993, it changed its name to Class G according to the new nomenclature of Mercedes models. The same year marks the arrival the first V8 versions called the 500GE. Will come later 612 horsepower AMG V12, Brabus V12 900 HP, 6X6 versions, Landaulet. G Wagen, as you will understand, has radically changed its philosophy during its 44-year career.

Restyling in 2018, it lost its rigid axle for independent suspension. Also won aluminum parts to reduce its balance by almost 200 kilograms. The chassis remains the same and rests on the ladder platform of a pure 4X4. These numerous changes did not hinder him, on the contrary. Still on sale today it is on sale for a minimum of €149,000 or even €186,000 in the AMG version. Today he celebrates a sacred event: its half-millionth copy was produced at the Austrian factories of Steyr-Puch in Graz. As a wink, the brand gave it a neo-retro side, green paint and black grille reminiscent of the 280 GE of the 80s. Happy birthday, dear Geländewagen!