2nd-gen G-Class production begins in Graz, Austria

Production of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has commenced at the Magna Steyr factory in Graz, Austria.

The G-Class has been hand built at the Magna Steyr factory since 1979. The plant is known for its test track in the Schockl mountain, which is used to test all the cars made in the factory. The 1.5 km long track boasts of gradients up to 60 per cent and lateral inclinations of 40 per cent. The G-Class, popularly known as the G-Wagen was extensively tested here during its development.

Since 1979, 3,00,000 copies of the G-Class have been made in the same plant. Previous generation G-Class SUVs were updated in 1981 and 1990, followed by 2009. The 2019 version, though similar in exteriors, gets a complete redesign including lighter ladder frame chassis, improved interiors and it is powered by two versions of the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V-8 petrol engine and a 6-cylinder diesel. Transmission duties are handled by a 9-speed automatic gearbox.