DETROIT MOTOR SHOW: Mercedes teases new G-Class with new vid

Mercedes-Benz has released a new video teaser of its forthcoming G-Class ahead of its official unveiling at the Detroit motor show on January 14.

The short vid, posted on the German car-maker's Facebook page, shows off the tough SUV's far more luxurious interior.

Heavily inspired by the original that had a model life that spanned from 1979 until this year, the new interior features a large grab handle that remains ahead of the front passenger seat, but there's plenty of new modern touches like a steering wheel lifted directly from the S-Class and a pair of high-definition 12.3-inch screens.Also shown off are the stylish turbine-style air-vents from the E-Class Coupe and the same buttons for the climate control.

If you're familiar with the current G-Wagen's cramped and narrow cabin, the new version looks far more spacious thanks in part to the SUV growing a 20mm in width, liberating far more shoulder room and elbow space.

A 150mm wheelbase, meanwhile, has seen front legroom improve by 38mm.

Confirmed to weigh at least 160kg less than the SUV it replaces, the new G-Class makes extensive use of lightweight aluminium in its construction.

Already spotted last year while testing, the new SUV keeps the old car’s boxy lines and ladder frame chassis. The next G-Class will also come with an independent front suspension and a development of the old car’s coil-suspended live rear axle.

Air suspension and adaptive dampers will also be available.

Under the bonnet, initially, there will be Mercedes-AMG’s twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 and the car-maker’s latest 2.9-litre in-line six-cylinder diesel. Both will be combined with a nine-speed automatic.

All versions are expected to come with a low-range gearbox and three lockable differentials. The G 500 five-door that will be revealed at the Detroit motor show will weigh 2435kg and be capable of towing up to 3500kg.

Mercedes is likely to reveal its all-new G-Class shortly before the Christmas break ahead of its official launch at the Detroit show in January, and its global release later next year.