Next gen Mercedes G Class seen rumbling away [Video]

Retains the iconic boxy design, but with heavy changes underneath.

The next generation Mercedes G Class UV has been spied testing in Stuttgart, Germany, by WalkoART. It's expected to debut late next year and go on sale across key markets in 2018.

[Youtube link]

The test mule spotted is likely to be featuring the final production-spec body, which retains the iconic boxy design. There are some noticeable changes in the test mule. For instance, it features a slightly revised grille with new triple slats and redesigned bumper. Rumors claim that the body panels are newly engineered, despite looking largely identical to the outgoing model.

The interior of the 2018 Mercedes G Class will undergo a significant overhaul. A spyshot of its interior surfaced over four months ago, revealing a design that combines the robust nature of the G Class with the tech and design of the new E Class. The dashboard features a single binnacle that houses a wide COMAND infotainment display and conventional dials flanking a large multi-info color display (a full digital driver's display could be optional) and a handle bar on the passenger side.

Also Read: Facelifts for Mercedes S-Class & Mercedes GLA confirmed for 2017

The G Class test mule in the video drives off with a deep and rumbling exhaust note, suggesting that the base G 500/ G 550 model will likely retain the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine. Speculations are rife that the new G Class will shed as much as 400 kg from its ladder-frame construction, which will directly (positively) influence performance figures and fuel economy.