Mercedes Marks 30th Anniversary Of G Class Line

It was in 1979 when Mercedes-Benz rolled out its G Class model, a line of rugged Safari running sport/utility vehicles. The G-Class was designed, in part, at the request of the Shah of Iran who wanted a new military vehicle to supplement his fleet. Alas, the shah was disposed and with him went an important customer for the company which is now known as Daimler AG. Fortunately, the G Class made it to production and remains in production to this day.

Same Body Style, Interior Updates

Over the years the G Class has been updated, incorporating the latest technological and engineering improvements but keeping the basic body style untouched. G Class fans welcome the iconic and timeless styling, knowing that the same G Class built today is an excellent representation of the first models produced thirty years ago.

Among the improvements made over the years for the G Class includes the vehicle's interior, particularly the seating. Lateral support and bolstering have been included, making the seats much more comfortable and easier to endure for longer trips. The rear seat has been improved too, with additional padding, color choices and optional leather surfaces.

Audio Changes Are Apparent

Keeping up with the changes in audio technology, the G Class now includes an auxiliary socket in the glove box as well as a media interface to connect an iPod, USBor Aux devices. A leather trimmed dashboard and optional indirect ambient lighting are some of the newer features in the G Class.

According to Daimler, new paintwork options are now available –  "palladium silver metallic" or the "designo platinum magno" with matte finish. From the back, the newest models offer a modified spare wheel cover with a three-dimensional Mercedes star.

Three Body Styles And Three Engine Choices

The G Class currently offers three body variables – short and long station wagons as well as a cabriolet -- which can be combined either as the G 350 CDI (replaces the previous G 320 CDI with a new nomenclature) with a fuel efficient V6 diesel engine or in the form of the G 500 and its potent 5.5L V8 gas engine.

The G 55 AMG, which is the class leader of all G Class models is available exclusively as a four-door long station wagon. The G-Guard based on the G 500 long wagon is a significant component in the model range. Finally, a fully armored G-Class certified to bullet resistance level FB6 or FB7 provides protection against pistols/revolvers and long-barreled weapons as well as against explosive charges of a defined size.

Will the G Class still be around thirty years hence? That's a good question considering the state of the global auto industry these days. In some form or fashion it may soldier on, perhaps with an on-board hydrogen regeneration system which will make safari-side fuel stops a thing of the past!