The Mercedes G Wagon goes back to its roots with the 350 d Professional

Off-road purists rejoice, Mercedes is building a new version of its iconic G Wagon focused on talking the trickiest of terrain conditions rather navigation the urban jungle.

When the G 350 d Professional hits the streets in September it will do so with a 3-liter turbocharged V6 diesel engine under its castellated hood, 245hp on tap and, most importantly, 600Nm of torque available from as little as 1600 rpm.

Like all G Wagons, the new model has permanent all-wheel-drive, a low-ratio transmission and three electronically locking differentials.

And to encourage owners to use these proper off-roading features more often, the Professional's grille and wheels are finished in matte black rather than easy-to-scratch chrome. It comes with chunky all-terrain tires as standard; its suspension has been overhauled to give it an extra 10mm of ground clearance (245mm versus the standard 235mm), and that in turn results in an improved angle of approach (36Ëš) and a 600mm fording depth.

These figures are also an improvement over the now discontinued G 300 CDI, the last model aimed at professionals.

Owners can add to this utilitarian theme with an optional steel front bumper with winch support, protective grilles for the lights, a roof rack with a ladder and a load compartment finished in hard-wearing wood.

Inside, Mercedes hasn't scrimped on creature comforts -- there are electrically operated seats, a multi-function steering wheel and optional compatibility with Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Still, don't forget, this is first and foremost a vehicle for adventuring into the great unknown rather than into the city center and so the floor is clad in non-slip mats and there are drainage ports so that dirt from muddy boots and clothes can be easily washed away.

However, those that have become G-Wagon or G-Class fans due to its capabilities as a luxury SUV with utilitarian chic, never fear, the rest of the range is also being updated with the latest Mercedes infotainment, navigation and communication systems.

Prices for the G 350 d Professional will start from €90,636.35. Order books are now open and European deliveries commence in September.