“We love the comfort and appeal the vechicle offers when we go out. The only thing we dislike is the fuel efficiency.”
2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class gets fresh paint and appearance-package choices, but no major mechanical or technology updates. It is the final U.S. model year of the original W463 before the fully redesigned 2019 G-Class arrives.
About the 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Original W463 generation, final U.S. model year before the all-new 2019 redesign.
Mercedes-Benz positions the G-Class as a luxury SUV that keeps genuine off-road hardware at its core. Its value is not just style: it pairs a tall, unmistakably boxy body with low-range AWD, three locking differentials, and strong V8 power, then adds a richly trimmed cabin with navigation, premium audio, and heated seating. Compared with most large luxury SUVs, the G-Class stands out because its trail ability is real factory hardware, not just a rugged look.
The G 550 pairs a luxury cabin with serious off-road hardware, including a 416-hp twin-turbo V8, low-range AWD and three locking differentials. The G 550 4X4 Squared is the extreme version, adding portal axles, 17.2 inches of ground clearance and specialized suspension while retaining navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What changed, by category
Styling
Mercedes added fresh paint and appearance-package choices. The upright body, lighting and standard exterior design otherwise carried over.
2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd 7G-Tronic+ | Automatic, 7-Spd w/7G-Tronic Plus |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 11 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 14 mpg | 11 mpg |
| Horsepower | 416 hp | 416 hp |
| Torque | 450 lb-ft | 450 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7000 lb | 7000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 38.6 cu-ft | 38.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 41.9 in | 41.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| 4-Wheel Disc Brakes | ||
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Anti-Lock Brakes | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Stability Control | ||
| Traction Control | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||
| HID Headlights | ||
| Heated Mirrors | ||
| Heated Windshield | ||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Power Mirrors | ||
| Privacy Glass | ||
| Side Steps | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||
| SD Card Slot | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||
| Memory Front Seats | ||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||
| Power Locks | ||
| Power Steering | ||
| Power Windows | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class?
The main changes are fresh paint and appearance-package choices. The engines, truck-style chassis, off-road hardware, safety equipment and cabin technology otherwise carry over from 2017.
Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class the last year before the redesign?
Yes. The 2018 model is the final U.S. model year of the original W463 G-Class before the fully redesigned 2019 version arrives.
Did the 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class get a new engine?
No. The G 550 and G 550 4X4 Squared retain a 416-hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 and a seven-speed automatic transmission.
How is the 2018 G 550 4X4 Squared different from the regular G 550?
The 2018 G 550 4X4 Squared is the more extreme off-road version. It adds portal axles, 17.2 inches of ground clearance, specialized suspension, underbody protection and more aggressive off-road geometry, while both versions use the same 416-hp V8 and three locking differentials.
Is the 2018 G-Class substantially different from the 2017 model?
No. The 2018 G-Class is largely a carryover from 2017, with appearance choices providing the main updates. Its powertrain, chassis, safety features and infotainment remain essentially unchanged.
2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
4.6
2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
(16 reviews)
“Best SUV in the market. It's a sports car more than suv. It's very powerful and fun to drive.”
“I wish it had some of the luxury components that my 550 had. I miss the parking assist, the 360 camera, keyless ignition, keyless entry and heated steering wheel. Had I been less impulsive, I probably would not have purchased. I doubt I'll buy another.”