Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The body-on-frame off-roader developed with Steyr-Daimler-Puch and built in Graz since 1979.
Overview
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class began as a joint project between Daimler-Benz and Austria’s Steyr-Daimler-Puch. Discussions opened in 1969, the companies agreed to develop a light off-road vehicle in the early 1970s, and the first driveable prototypes followed in 1974. Series production began at Graz-Thondorf in February 1979 after the model’s world premiere in Toulon, France.
The original G combined a separate frame, rigid axles and coil springs with a selectable four-wheel-drive system. A locking centre differential was standard, while locks for the front and rear differentials were initially optional and became standard in 1985. Short- and long-wheelbase chassis supported open, station-wagon and panel-van bodies, reflecting the model’s intended civilian, commercial and military roles.
Continuous development gradually added comfort, safety and performance without abandoning the upright body or off-road layout. Permanent four-wheel drive arrived with the 463 model series in 1990, followed over time by more luxurious interiors, V8 engines and AMG variants. Production has remained in Graz throughout the model’s history.
Model series
460 (1979–1991)
The civilian 460 launched with four engines: the diesel 240 GD and 300 GD, and the petrol 230 G and 280 GE. Its two wheelbases and varied bodies made it adaptable, while power steering, differential locks, a catalytic converter and other refinements were introduced during the 1980s.
461 and professional models (1992–present)
The utility-focused branch continued under the 461 designation from 1992. These versions retained the emphasis on payload, durability and specialist conversion, serving armed forces, emergency services and commercial operators while the 463 developed towards the luxury market.
First 463 series (1990–2018)
Introduced alongside the work-oriented models, the 463 combined permanent four-wheel drive and three differential locks with a more comprehensively trimmed cabin. Anti-lock brakes were available from launch, and later electronic traction and stability systems improved control. The G 55 AMG became the regular high-performance flagship in 1999.
Second 463 series (2018–present)
The extensively redesigned G-Class entered production in May 2018. It retained a separate frame, three locking differentials and the familiar square profile, but adopted a wider body, independent front suspension and modern driver-assistance systems. Petrol, diesel, AMG and battery-electric derivatives have since continued the model family.