The Gazal is named after gazelles (I see it!), apparently a creature commonly found living in Saudi Arabia. It kind of looks like a G-Class at an FJ Cruiser. Can't you just see this thing bounding over dunes and through malls?
When a model remains in production with its hallmark traits virtually untouched since 1979, constant updates are more of a norm than the exception. Coinciding with the G-Class' thirtieth birthday, Mercedes-Benz added new interior features to its SUV model. The 2010MY G-Class benefits from newly developed front seats as well as a new rear bench with customers offered the choice between black or grey fabric upholstery and leather appointments either in black, grey or chestnut, or optionally, the new 'climatised' multicontour seats. Mercedes did not release any interior photos of the updated G-Class, but the automaker said that the line-up now includes the so-called designo leather upholstery in classic red or black as well as designo wood trim in black piano lacquer. In early 2010, buyers will also be able to opt for the designo stone trim in Labrador blue pearl.
Other interior updates include the addition of an Aux-in socket in the glove compartment and a new ignition key while, indirect ambient interior lighting, a leather-trimmed dashboard, an extensive Chrome package as well as a media interface to connect an iPod, USBor Aux devices have been added to the options list.
On the outside, the 2010MY G-Class gets a modified spare wheel cover with a three-dimensional Mercedes star while the German firm has added two new paintworks to the mix, the "palladium silver metallic" and the "designo platinum magno" matt finish.
The G-Class is offered in three body variants (short Station Wagon, long Station Wagon and Cabriolet) that can be combined with either a 224HP V6 diesel (G 350 CDI) or two gasoline V8 engines producing 388HP in the G 500 and 507HP in the G55 AMG model. Mercedes-Benz recently decided to extend the production of the G-Class until 2015.
Quite possibly the most controversial 4x4 vehicle in the market has received a few subtle changes for the MY2009. Thanks to the integration of a new engine control unit, output of the G55 AMG’s supercharged 5.5-litre V8 engine has been nudged up from 500hp 507hp, with maximum torque remaining at 700 Nm. Performance remains unchanged however with the G55 AMG accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 5.5 sec and peaking at an electronically limited top speed of 210 km/h (131mph). -ContinuedOther mechanical changes include the new and more powerful control unit of the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which now incorporates a transverse acceleration control. In addition, the new G55 AMG now comes with a hill-start assist.
The 2009 G55 AMG’s appearance has been freshened up wit a reworked radiator grille and new 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey and equipped with 275/55 R 19 tires.
Finally, Mercedes-Benz has added a new silver-coloured designo emblem on the front backrests of the seats that are now climatised for the first time in the model’s history. Drivers of the 2009 G55 AMG also benefit from a new telematics system developed by Mercedes.
Available exclusively in five-door form, the 2009 G55 AMG will go on sale this September at a price of €121,618 -$190,000. Just like a bottle of wine, the older the G-Class gets, the pricier it becomes...
