Mercedes-Benz's G 450 d Turbo Diesel Marvel: Europe's Exclusive Powerhouse
Meet the newest heavyweight in the luxury SUV arena: the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, a titan that seamlessly blends rugged capability with the plush opulence synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz marque. While retaining familiar contours reminiscent of the second-generation W463, the 2025 iteration forges ahead with bold innovations beneath its iconic shell, available with either potent six or eight-cylinder powerhouses.
In Europe, the automotive stage is set ablaze with the introduction of a turbocharged inline-six diesel engine, a marvel Americans can only dream of. Delving into the engine's specifications, as detailed by Mercedes-Benz's official German configurator, the G 450 d is powered by a 2,989-cc engine. This engineering marvel churns out 270 kW (367 ps or 362 hp) and a towering 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1,350 to 2,800 rpm, leaving its predecessor, the G 400 d, in the dust.
Power and Efficiency
The G 450 d doesn't just flex its muscles in raw power but also in innovative technology. With a mild-hybrid system incorporating a 48-volt electrical setup and an integrated starter-generator, it temporarily boosts performance by an additional 20 horsepower and 148 pound-feet (200 Nm) of torque. These short bursts of power accentuate the G 450 d's superiority over the G 400 d, offering an exhilarating driving experience without sacrificing fuel efficiency.
Regarding fuel economy, the Mercedes-Benz G 450 d showcases commendable frugality for a vehicle of its stature. On the WLTP's combined test cycle, it exhibits an impressive consumption rate of 10 to 8.7 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers. This translates to an enviable 23.5/27.0 miles per gallon in the United States and 28.2/32.5 miles per gallon in the United Kingdom, rivaling even the gasoline-powered G 500 in efficiency.
Gearing Up for Glory
The transition from the G 450 d to the powerhouse that is the G 63 introduces the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G. This transmission, exclusive to the G 63, introduces a double de-clutch function that elevates the driving dynamics to new heights, differentiating itself starkly from the Multi Clutch Technology version with its focus on weight savings and responsive accelerator inputs.
Curiosity naturally piques regarding the cost of securing such a beast in Germany. The G 450 d is tagged at €132,328 before any optional extras. When compared to the pricing of the G 500 and the more exalted G 63, the G 450 d represents a continuation of Mercedes-Benz's legacy of delivering high-performance luxury without the astronomical price tag associated with top-tier models.
Looking Ahead
While enthusiasts in the United States are left yearning for the diesel-powered G-Class variant, they can anticipate slightly steeper prices for the emblematic SUV's upcoming iterations. Assembled with precision by the seasoned hands at Magna Steyr in Austria, the G-Class continues to evolve, promising the eventual introduction of a zero-emission Gelandewagen variant. This future model underscores Mercedes-Benz's commitment to innovation, seamlessly blending tradition with forward-thinking design and engineering practices.