Mercedes-Benz has expanded its G-Class range in India with the launch of the diesel-powered G 450d, priced at ₹2.90 crore (ex-showroom). Only 50 units of the G 450d have been allocated for India in the first batch. This marks the return of a diesel variant to the iconic off-roader’s lineup. The G-Class is now available in petrol, diesel and electric powertrains. It costs ₹20 lakh less than the electric G 580, but is ₹1.60 crore costlier than the Defender 110 Diesel Trophy Edition. The G 450d offers a mix of strong performance and improved efficiency. It arrives as a fully imported unit under the CBU route, which partly explains its premium pricing.
Powertrain & Performance
The new G 450d is powered by a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel engine paired with Mercedes-Benz’s 48V mild-hybrid technology. The engine delivers 367 HP and 750 NM of peak torque, while the 48V mild-hybrid system adds an extra 20 HP for short bursts of power. It is more powerful than both the G 350d and G400 d, which were on sale in India earlier. The SUV uses a 9-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system as standard. It has a ground clearance of 241 MM. Despite weighing over 2.5 tonnes, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 KM/H in 5.8 seconds, with a top speed of 210 KM/H. This places it close to other performance-focused SUVs in its class. The engine’s combination of high torque and electric assistance focuses on balancing refinement with low-end pulling power for off-road use.
Design, Interiors, & Technology
Visually, the G 450d looks quite similar to the G 400d, which was on sale in India until 2024. It retains the unmistakable G-Class shape that has remained largely unchanged for over four decades. It features a new grill with four horizontal chrome slats, circular LED headlamps, 20-inch AMG alloy wheels, and refreshed front and rear bumpers. Inside, the cabin mirrors the luxury and build quality typical of Mercedes-Benz’s G-Class lineup. The interior layout includes dual 12.3-inch displays for infotainment and instrumentation, Nappa leather upholstery, 18-speaker Burmester sound system with 760W output, and ambient lighting. It also gets Level-2 ADAS, which includes lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and a 360 degree camera. The off-road functions are accessible via dedicated displays, and the vehicle features three differential locks for enhanced terrain capability. The G 450d also gets the latest MBUX software with voice assistant support.
Positioning In India
The introduction of the G 450d signals Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to offer more diverse powertrain choices in India. The G 450d competes with luxury off-roaders, with the Land Rover Defender 110 Diesel being its primary rival, which is priced at ₹1.30 crore. While the pricing remains steep, Mercedes aims to attract buyers seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and genuine off-road credentials. The G-Class continues to be hand-built in Graz, Austria, and its limited availability in India enhances its exclusivity. With the G 450d’s arrival, the company strengthens its foothold in the high-end SUV segment, building on India’s growing appetite for luxury 4x4s.
