Mercedes-Benz has launched a new special edition of its iconic G-Class SUV called the Stronger Than Diamonds Edition. The name is inspired by the campaign slogan “A love that lasts forever. Stronger than diamonds”, which celebrates the enduring appeal and durability of the G-Class. The special edition features natural diamonds on board, exclusive design elements, and a limited production run of 300 units. In this article, we will look closer at the Mercedes-Benz G-Class Stronger Than Diamonds Edition and compare it to the regular G-Class and other luxury SUVs.
The G-Class: A Brief History
The G-Class, or Geländewagen (German for “cross-country vehicle”), is one of the Mercedes-Benz lineup's oldest and most recognizable models. It was first introduced in 1979 as a military vehicle and later became available to civilian customers. Since then, it has undergone several updates and improvements but has retained its distinctive boxy shape and off-road capabilities. The G-Class is popular among celebrities, royalty, and wealthy customers, who appreciate its rugged charm and exclusivity.
The current generation of the G-Class was launched in 2018 and is based on a new platform that offers more space, comfort, and technology. The G-Class is available in various configurations, including the G 350 d, the G 500, the G 63 AMG, and the G 65 AMG. The G 500 is the base model in the US market and is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. The G 500 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph. The G 500 has a starting price of $131,750 in the US.
The Stronger Than Diamonds Edition: What’s New?
The Stronger Than Diamonds Edition is based on the G 500 and is part of a global campaign celebrating Valentine’s Day and the everlasting love for the G-Class. The campaign features a short film that shows a couple driving through various landscapes and scenarios, accompanied by the song “Diamonds” by Rihanna. The film ends with the slogan “A love that lasts forever. Stronger than diamonds” and the reveal of the special edition.
The Stronger Than Diamonds Edition has several unique features that make it stand out from the regular G-Class. The most noticeable one is the paintwork, a matte rosewood grey color developed exclusively by the Manufaktur department of Mercedes-Benz. The paintwork is meant to evoke the idea of a diamond in the rough and to contrast with the rugged nature of the G-Class.
Another distinctive feature of the Stronger Than Diamonds Edition is the presence of genuine diamonds on board. Each of the four stainless steel door lock pins has a 25-carat diamond set into it, adding a touch of luxury and sparkle to the interior. The exterior door handles also have an embossed diamond logo, and the keys are made of genuine silver and have the name of the special edition and the diamond logo on the reverse.
The Stronger Than Diamonds Edition interior is also enhanced with exclusive details and materials. The seats, dashboard, and door panels are covered with black nappa leather contrasting rose stitching. The floor mats are made of deep-pile carpet, and the passenger side has an illuminated grab handle. The door sills are also illuminated and have the Stronger Than Diamonds badge in stainless steel. The customers who buy the Stronger Than Diamonds Edition also receive a black indoor car cover with the edition-specific design and a certificate from the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), which confirms that the diamonds are sourced from ethically, socially, and ecologically responsible sources.
The Stronger Than Diamonds Edition has a net list price of €175,000 in Germany, equivalent to $187,296 at the current exchange rate. The special edition is limited to 300 units worldwide and is on display at the Studio Odeonplatz by Mercedes-Benz in Munich from February 14 until March 2.