Mercedes-Benz has expanded the line-up of G-Class luxury SUV by adding a new entry-level variant, the G 350d. Priced at Rs 1.5 Cr (ex-showroom, India), the new entry-level G-Wagen is considerably cheaper than the AMG G63 which was launched at the end of last year with an ex-showroom price of Rs 2.19 Cr. It’s also the very first time Mercedes has added a non-AMG G-Class to its product portfolio in the country. The Mercedes-Benz G 350d is being brought to India through the CBU (completely built unit) route, which means it doesn’t need to be homologated in India thanks to the recent regulations that allow OEMs to import up to 2,500 units per year. The entry-level G-Wagen comes with a more economical 3.0-litre, in-line six-cylinder diesel engine that churns out 286hp and 600Nm of torque, which is quite tamed in comparison AMG G63’s to 585hp, 4.0-litre, twin-turbo V8 petrol engine. The diesel unit in the G 350d is the same BS6-compliant power-plant that made its debut on the face-lifted Mercedes-Benz S-Class last year. The engine is paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels. Mercedes claims that the 2.5 tonne luxury SUV can hit 100kph from a standstill in 7.4sec and hit a top speed of 199km/h.
In terms of aesthetics, the entry-level G 350d comes with the same overall design as its more powerful sibling; however, some of the outlandish styling attributes are toned down to match its character. The ‘panamerica’ grille is replaced by a simple-looking front end. Same is the case with its 20-inch wheels which feature a simpler design. Inside the cabin, the G 350d is packed with top-shelf luxury features and gets the same dash layout as the AMG G63. Amenities and creature comfort on offer include plush leather upholstery, powered front seats, a multi-function steering wheel, push-button start, cruise control, auto LED headlamps and wipers, three-zone climate control and ambient lighting. Its body-on-frame construction along with three locking differentials, low-range gearing, and 241mm of ground clearance, with a 700mm water wading capability, makes the G 350d is one of the most capable off-road luxury SUVs money can buy.
