Mercedes-Benz developed the robust G-Class for the German military in 1979. A top model for off road vehicles ever since its launch, winning the most gruelling Dakar Rally competition in Paris in 1983. G-Class is frequently re-modelled into vehicle for religious purposes — in 2007, Mercedes-Benz spent two years creating a white convertible model for the Pope making his public appearances. It is apparent how the model is perceived as reliable and substantial. The straight-lined silhouette is masculine and seen as the shape for contemporary 4WD vehicles. Originally named Geländewagen (off road vehicles in German), the model evolved into G-Wagen and then G-Class later on. The letter ‘G’ since became a symbol for off road vehicles.
The G55 launched by AMG in 2003 reached 349 horse power, a step up in terms of technology, power and equipment. Innovation started to dominate its image, rather than being ‘reliable’ as known before — relatively low horse power, compelling torque to overcome extreme conditions, manually controlled windows and woven seats in check pattern. More commonly known in the past decade, many would draw a blank when asked about its more distant past.
The right hand drive version of G-Class ceased production many years ago, the last import being in 1990s. Australian military recently placed an over-thousand-unit order for Mercedes-Benz G300 CDI and resurrected the production line of its right hand drive version. Its Hong Kong distributor managed to place their hands on a few, which is superb news to 4WD vehicles fans. The G300 CDI is updated with the new 3.0L V6 engine, reaching 185 horse power and fulfils Euro-V engines specification. Although the car weights two and a half tonnes, its engine is low in petrol consumption, its powerful torque takes on winding road and slops with ease. The manual ‘+ / –’ setting on the five 5 Speed Auto Shift enhances acceleration.
In terms of appearance, the Air intake snorkels is heavily industrial looking. Other details such as gigantic side electronic mirrors, two turn signal lights in front of bonnet, wired headlights (for extra protection) and high mounted number plate design sum up a masculine style. Apart from functions for off road driving, there are plenty of military setting installed in G300 — the 12/24V power source is handy for connecting 24V military communication device; the front, central and rear locking differential in central control penal; ‘On/Off Road’ gearbox; a lamp for viewing map at the passenger seat and more. Although the seat and window are still in hand-scroll setting, the G300 distributor has replaced the original with comfortable leather seats.
Mercedes-Benz G300 is registered as a commercial car, requiring Light Goods Vehicle Driving Licence to drive; qualifying Euro-V engines specification means that HKD$40,000 tax is deducted from each G300 purchase.
