The Mercedes-Benz G-Class’s throwback styling may be a huge part of its appeal, but that doesn’t mean it won’t get a little freshening.
The German automaker has been spied fuelling up a facelifted G-Class prototype during winter testing in Sweden ahead of a possible reveal later in 2022 or early in 2023.
This particular G-Class prototype doesn’t appear to be the full-fat AMG G63 variant due to the lack of side-exit exhaust pipes and a grille with horizontal slats.
Both the front and the back of the prototype are covered in black-and-white camouflage which hints at updated front and rear fasciae.
From the front the facelift seems to be focused around the lower air intakes, which have a different mesh pattern.
If there are any other changes to the front of this prototype they must be extremely minor as it seems to have the exact same headlights, grille insert, skid plate, tow hook and bonnet-mounted indicators as the existing G-Class.
Around the side, the prototype is largely undisguised. This facelifted G-Class prototype obviously retains its classic boxy silhouette.
At the back it’s hard to spot any changes but the lower bumper appears to be slightly altered.
As a whole, this G-Class facelift seems to be very minor. It’s the classic story of if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Inside the updated G-Class is where it could get exciting though.
The current G-Class has the outdated COMAND infotainment system and the facelift could bring with it Mercedes-Benz’s current MBUX system, which is even available in the entry-level A-Class.
We’re yet to see the interior of the facelifted G-Class though so this isn’t confirmed.
Current-generation G400d
Mercedes-Benz introduced the second-generation G-Class in 2018, replacing the first-generation Geländewagen that first launched in 1979.
The second-gen G-Class is completely redesigned from the ground up and is longer, wider and has more up-to-date safety technology.
In terms of engines for the facelifted G-Class, it’s unclear if there’ll be any changes to the existing line-up.
In Australia, the sole non-AMG trim level is the G400d. It’s powered by a 3.0-litre ‘OM656’ inline-six turbo-diesel engine that produces 243kW of power and 700Nm of torque.
Mercedes-AMG G63 facelifted prototype 
There’s also the AMG G63, which was also recently spied in facelifted form with similar camouflaged sections.
The current AMG G63 is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine that produces 430kW and 850Nm.
Both the G400 and AMG G63 have a four-wheel drive system and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Concept EQG
Mercedes-Benz is working on an electric version of the G-Class.
In September 2021, Mercedes-Benz revealed its “near-production” Concept EQG with four electric motors and the promise of enough off-road ability to match its predecessors.
Mercedes-Benz also previously announced G would become its own sub-brand. It’ll join AMG, Maybach and EQ, becoming the fourth sub-brand for the German automaker.
