Mercedes-Benz’s 600,000th G-Class Rolls Off Production Line In Graz, Austria

Alongside the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and E-Class, the G-Class is one of the longest-produced passenger car model series in the history of the German marque. So much so, in fact, that Mercedes has already produced 600,000 units of the G-Wagon since its introduction in 1979, hitting a production milestone for the nameplate.

Of note, the previous production milestone of 500,000 units was recorded in April 2023, just a little over two years ago. This means the automaker has already made 20% of all G-Classes ever built in the last two years, including the weirdly named G‑Class Edition Stronger Than The 1980s – a dead-ringer to the original G-Wagon. In its announcement of the new milestone, Mercedes hinted that the tradition of introducing special G-Class models “is to be continued in the future.”

Base Trim Engine

3.0-liter inline-six gas

Base Trim Transmission

9-speed automatic

Base Trim Drivetrain

Four-Wheel Drive

Base Trim Horsepower

443 hp

Base Trim Torque

413 lb-ft

Increased Demand For Unique Color Options

With a history rooted in supposed military use, Mercedes-Benz has transformed the G-Class into a status symbol, combining the model’s rugged capabilities with luxurious cabin appointments. The company revealed that over 90% of G‑Class customers choose at least one Manufaktur option with their purchase. On average, three special options are chosen per vehicle.

Unlike other off-roaders, which are usually optioned with additional equipment to boost their mettle beyond pavement, Manufaktur options are usually chosen to make G-Wagens unique. Mercedes-Benz touts that there’s an increasing demand for heritage paint colors and exclusive shades inspired by iconic designs. Of note, there have been 20,000 possible paint colors available through Manufaktur since last year.

Staying True To The G-Wagen Formula

Mercedes-Benz is also proud to announce that it hasn’t strayed away from the original formula of the G-Wagen since 1979: all-wheel drive, differential locks with full locking, and the robust ladder-frame platform. Other elements have been retained, too, such as the round headlights, the exposed spare wheel on the side-hinged rear door, and the boxy silhouette.

There’s one thing different now, though. Customers can now also choose an electric G-Class instead of a pure combustion one. Coincidentally, the 600,000th unit that rolled off the production line in Graz, Austria, was a G 580 with EQ Technology in obsidian black metallic. That said, Mercedes knows that the electric G-Class isn’t as popular as expected, but at least its failure paves the way to a baby G-Class that buyers actually want: an off-roader powered by a combustion engine.

Source: Mercedes-Benz