Mercedes-Benz G 450d: Diesel power returns to the G-Wagen lineup

Mercedes-Benz has expanded the G-Class portfolio in India with the launch of the new G 450d — the most powerful diesel version of the iconic off-roader yet. For the first time, Indian buyers can choose between petrol, diesel, and electric variants of the G-Class, making India one of the few markets globally where all three powertrains are sold side by side.

At the core of the G 450d lies a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel engine paired with a 48V mild hybrid system. The engine delivers 270 kW (362 hp) and an immense 750 Nm of torque, with an additional 15 kW of electric boost available via the integrated starter generator. The result is effortless acceleration — 0 to 100 km/h comes up in just 5.8 seconds — and a top speed of 210 km/h. Despite its formidable size and weight, performance is brisk, and refinement remains exemplary, typical of Mercedes-Benz’s latest generation diesel units.

Power is routed to all four wheels through the brand’s proven 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, complemented by the G-Class’s signature trio of mechanical differential locks. The G 450d continues to rely on its ladder-frame chassis, paired with a double wishbone front suspension and a rigid rear axle — a setup that has made the G-Wagen an enduring benchmark for off-road performance. Adaptive adjustable damping is standard, offering improved control both on- and off-road.

Off-road, the G 450d remains as uncompromising as ever. It can tackle grades of up to 100%, wade through 70 cm of water, and maintain stability on side slopes of up to 35°. Ground clearance stands at 241 mm, while approach and departure angles of 31° and 30° respectively, along with a breakover angle of 26°, ensure it can conquer even the toughest terrain. These figures place it firmly among the most capable off-roaders in the luxury SUV segment.

Visually, the G 450d stays true to the unmistakable G-Class silhouette but gains subtle aerodynamic and stylistic updates. A new radiator grille with four horizontal louvres, redesigned bumpers, and an aerodynamically optimised roof-edge spoiler lend a slightly modernised edge to its otherwise classic form. The SUV rides on 20-inch AMG alloy wheels finished in high-gloss black, reinforcing its muscular stance.

The cabin, meanwhile, blends traditional craftsmanship with the latest in Mercedes-Benz technology. The interior follows the AMG Line theme, featuring Nappa leather upholstery, sporty metal trim accents, and a customizable ambient lighting system. The infotainment setup is the latest MBUX NTG7 interface, displayed across dual 12.3-inch screens that serve both the driver display and the central multimedia system. Features include augmented reality navigation, wireless smartphone integration, and USB-C connectivity.

The G 450d also introduces a redesigned off-road cockpit — an interface that displays real-time information such as vehicle position, altitude, steering angle, tyre pressure, and the status of differential locks. The “Transparent Hood” function, accessed through the off-road menu, projects a virtual image beneath the vehicle to help navigate obstacles hidden from sight.

In keeping with the G-Class’s premium positioning, the cabin experience has been elevated further with the inclusion of the Burmester 3D Surround Sound system featuring Dolby Atmos, an 18-speaker setup delivering 760 watts of output. Sound insulation has been improved, with enhanced acoustic glass and vibration damping making the cabin notably quieter, even at higher speeds.

The MANUFAKTUR customisation program offers customers an extensive range of paint finishes, trim options, and handcrafted interior details, ensuring that no two G-Class SUVs need to look or feel alike. From exclusive leather finishes to unique exterior colours, the degree of personalisation available is vast.

Safety and technology remain central to the G 450d. The SUV comes equipped with an array of advanced driver assistance systems including Active Brake Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and a 360-degree camera. Together with the strong structural integrity of the G-Class platform, these features make the SUV as secure as it is luxurious.

With the G 450d, Mercedes-Benz has completed the circle for G-Class buyers in India — offering a diesel that caters to those who value torque, range, and long-distance drivability; a petrol for outright performance; and an electric version for those embracing the future of sustainable mobility. The G-Class, now in its most versatile form, continues to evolve without losing sight of what made it an icon: authenticity, capability, and presence.

The Mercedes-Benz G 450d is priced from ₹2.90 crore (ex-showroom, India).

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