The Mercedes-Benz G 320 V6 4MATIC Automatic, produced from February 2001 to August 2006, represents a significant iteration of the long-wheelbase (W463) G-Class following the 2000 facelift. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the G-Class lineup, it bridged the gap between the base G 270 CDI diesel and the higher-performance G 500. This variant aimed to provide a blend of capability, comfort, and refinement, appealing to buyers seeking a luxurious and robust off-road vehicle with a gasoline engine. The “Long” designation refers to the extended wheelbase, offering increased rear passenger space compared to the standard G-Wagen.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class Long (W463, facelift 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | G 320 V6 (215 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2001 |
| End of production | August, 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 19.7 l/100 km (11.9 US mpg, 14.3 UK mpg, 5.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 12.7 l/100 km (18.5 US mpg, 22.2 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 15.5 l/100 km (15.2 US mpg, 18.2 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 370 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 91.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 127.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 215 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2800-4800 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2800-4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 112.945 |
| Engine displacement | 3199 cm3 (195.21 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.9 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 850 kg (1873.93 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2250 l (79.46 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal | 21.12 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 200 kg (440.92 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4680 mm (184.25 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2007 mm (79.02 in.) |
| Height | 1936 mm (76.22 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205 mm (8.07 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.54 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.3 m (43.64 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 37° |
| Departure angle | 31° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 23° |
| Climb angle | 38.7° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension, Trailing arm |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R 16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5 J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The G 320 V6 was powered by the M112.945 3.2-liter V6 engine. This engine, a naturally aspirated powerplant, featured a 60-degree V-angle and utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design per cylinder bank. The M112 engine family was known for its relatively smooth operation and durability. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produced 215 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 2800 and 4800 rpm. This torque curve provided usable power across a broad range, beneficial for both on-road driving and off-road crawling. The engine was longitudinally mounted, driving all four wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission (typically the 722.6). This transmission was chosen for its robustness and ability to handle the engine’s torque output in demanding conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The G 320 V6 Automatic offered a comfortable, yet capable driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provided adequate acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in around 10.7 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to shift, prioritizing comfort over outright performance. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of fuel economy and off-road capability. Compared to the G 500’s V8, the G 320 felt less powerful, especially during highway overtaking. However, it offered significantly better fuel economy. Compared to the diesel-powered G 270 CDI, the G 320 provided a more refined and responsive driving experience, albeit with higher fuel consumption. The permanent all-wheel-drive system, coupled with three selectable differentials (front, center, and rear), provided exceptional traction in challenging terrain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G 320 V6 Automatic came reasonably well-equipped, reflecting its positioning as a luxury off-roader. Standard features typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, and a premium audio system. The interior design was functional and robust, prioritizing durability over flashy aesthetics. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, parking sensors, and various exterior enhancements. The “Long” wheelbase version offered significantly more rear legroom than the standard G-Class, making it a more comfortable choice for passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The G-Class chassis remained largely unchanged from its original 1979 design, a testament to its inherent strength and durability. It featured a ladder-frame construction, providing exceptional rigidity and off-road capability. The suspension utilized coil springs and rigid axles front and rear, offering a comfortable ride on and off-road. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, assisted by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The G 320 V6’s weight of approximately 2350 kg (5181 lbs) necessitated a robust braking system to ensure adequate stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G 320 V6 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of luxury, capability, and refinement. However, its relatively high price and fuel consumption were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to the G 500, the G 320 offered a more affordable entry point into the G-Class range, while still providing a capable and comfortable off-road experience. Its fuel economy, while not exceptional, was significantly better than the G 500’s. The G 320 V6 also offered a more refined driving experience than the utilitarian G 270 CDI.
Legacy
The M112 engine, found in the G 320 V6, is generally considered a reliable powerplant when properly maintained. Common issues include occasional oil leaks and sensor failures, but these are typically not major concerns. The five-speed automatic transmission is also known for its durability. Today, the G 320 V6 Automatic is a sought-after vehicle among G-Class enthusiasts, particularly those seeking a well-rounded and capable off-roader that doesn’t carry the premium price tag of the G 500. Its combination of classic G-Class styling, a robust powertrain, and a comfortable interior ensures its continued appeal in the used car market.
