When the G-Class is no longer enough

By Wolfgang Hörner

The Unimog has always been the ultimate all-round workhorse. But on the occasion of its 80th anniversary, the legendary commercial machine is showing a completely different side. This unique piece transforms the robust icon into a luxury off-roader for those who already have everything they need for rough terrain.

Built for extremes. This is how Daimler Truck describes the Unimog. Whether used by the fire department, in disaster control, in winter service, in mining or as an expedition vehicle in remote regions: it steps in when conventional means of transport fail and even serious off-roaders reach their limits. This has been happening for eight decades.

Now these extremes extend beyond harsh weather and challenging terrain. The universal motor device enters the world of luxury. This special vehicle is essentially a celebratory statement on the model’s 80th birthday. To implement this, Daimler Truck worked together with the German Unimog specialist Hellgeth in Wurzbach. For years, the company has been producing tailor-made Unimog conversions, from expedition vehicles to special commercial solutions. The demand is global and there are already discussions about turning this one-off into a limited series for customers who want something truly different.

Imagine the scene. Instead of a Bentley or an AMG G-Class, a silver Unimog arrives at a hotel or casino in Monaco. That is, if it is allowed. The Unimog remains a commercial vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 7.5 tons and a height of almost 2.9 meters, which means it ignores many urban streets and parking lots. Even getting out requires effort. Shutting down is no less dramatic than getting out of a low-slung supercar, only in reverse. There are no pull-out steps here, just traditional grab bars and high-mounted running boards.

Inside, however, the experience changes. The double cab, which normally seats seven, now has four air-suspended, heated individual seats with quilted leather upholstery and decorative stitching. The wide center console and split headliner share the same elegant finish, creating an ambience reminiscent of Maybach craftsmanship. Fully digital exterior mirrors improve visibility, supported by mandatory blind spot cameras. The elevated seating position offers an impressive view of the surrounding traffic.

The exterior also receives a bespoke treatment. Revised bodywork, modern LED lighting and a matt metallic finish give the Unimog a distinctive presence, complemented by a sculpted rear bed. Practicality is not the focus here. This is about statement and ability.

And the performance remains intact. Beneath the luxury lies authentic Unimog technology. A new 7.7 liter inline six-cylinder engine produces 300 hp and 1,200 Nm of torque, more than typical for this powerful series. The results led engineers to introduce permanent all-wheel drive instead of the usual switchable system. An automated hydraulic transmission manages the eight forward gears, which can be split into 16 low-range ratios. The driver can still intervene manually and even operate a fold-out clutch pedal when the terrain requires precise control.

With adjustable tire pressure systems, beadlock wheels and three differential locks, the Unimog continues to conquer sand, mud and rock with ease. Its limits are small. Maybe the only limit is the price. The base vehicle alone starts well beyond the 250,000 euro mark.