2020 Mercedes-Benz G-Class spotted testing

A next generation Mercedes-Benz G-Class test mule has been spotted doing the rounds in Europe. In the 38 years of its existence, this will be the first major update for the SUV and it is likely to see the light of day sometime closer to 2019.

From the photos we can see that this next generation G-Class will be wider and longer than the current vehicle. However, it is expected to retain most of the iconic design philosophy that has defined the model for so many years now. A lot of the interior design cues for this SUV will come from the Ener-G-Force concept vehicle that was showcased at the 2012 LA Auto Show.

The Ener-G-Force concept made use of hydrogen power as its primary source of motivation but this new G-Class is expected to be offered with both petrol and diesel engines where the former will include an AMG-spec model as well as at least one full electric version.

The G-Class might be a bit of a dinosaur in the modern age of crossovers but it is this very thing that makes the car so appealing to a specific set of buyers found mainly in Gulf countries and pockets in Europe. It harks back to a time when SUVs were boxy, bold and tough but with enough luxury to not make you feel uncomfortable as you gobbled up miles of highway or dunes in the vastness of the desert.

Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Concept showcased