Diesel Mercedes-Benz G-Class returns to Oz
Turbo-diesel G-Wagen returns to Merc’s iconic SUV range, lowering entry price by $35kThe News
Diesel power has officially returned to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class line-up through the addition of a (slightly) more affordable G 450d.
The Key Details
- Priced from $214,900 plus on-road costs
- New option lowers G-Class entry price by $35,000
- Mild hybrid 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline six with 270kW/750Nm
- 0-100km/h in a claimed 5.8 seconds
The Finer Details
The Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen is once again available with diesel power, just a few years after the German carmaker cut the G 400d amid slow sales.
Now, it’s back and better than before, with more power and torque, and even a cheaper starting price compared to its predecessor.
Under the bonnet is a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline six cylinder, boosted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to deliver total outputs of 270kW/750Nm – an increase of 27kW/50Nm over old the G 400d.
With utilitarian roots built to tackle much more than just the school run, standard gear includes three mechanical differential locks, low-range gearing, independent front suspension and a solid rear axle.
Maximum wading depth is rated up to 700mm, while 31-degree approach and 30-degree departure angles are standard. It’s also equipped with an off-road-specific cockpit to deliver an array of vehicle data to the driver, including gradient, tilt and differential status.
The G 450d rides on 18-inch black light alloy wheels with summer tyres (all-terrain tyres are a no-cost option) and features multibeam LED headlights, while Merc’s Professional Line exterior package is also included, bringing silver-finished front under guard and mud flaps all round.
Inside is open-pore walnut wood trim detailing, a Burmester 3D sound system, sunroof, digital radio, MBUX augmented reality navigation and a host of safety assist aids, including autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera and more.
As usual, the G 450d can be fitted with an array of optional packages and customised to suit the driver’s taste.
The Road Ahead
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G 450d is available to order now, and it will be interesting to see if it fairs any better than its predecessor on the sales charts compared to the mighty G 63 AMG.
How much does the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class cost?
G 450d – $214,900
G 580 with EQ Technology – $249,900
G 580 with EQ Technology Edition One – $299,900
AMG G 63 4MATIC – $368,400
* Prices exclude on-road costs
Related: Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology Edition One 2025 Review
Related: Aussies sticking to the dark side with Mercedes-Benz colour choices but some dare to stand out
Related: 2025 Mercedes-AMG G 63: Australian pricing and specs
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