Is Diesel Dead? Mercedes Doesn’t Think So

Motoring editor Jeremy Taylor and Jessica Talbot-Ponsonby drive Mercedes new G 450d in Slovenia.

Test Drive: Mercedes G 450d

JT-P — Aren’t diesel cars done for in the UK?

JT — Almost! Sales have been in decline for at least three years. You won’t be able to buy a new diesel car after 2035, thanks to a proposed ban on all vehicles with combustion engines.

So why did we see so many diesel cars on our epic road trip across Slovenia, part of the former Yugoslavia?

Not every country in Europe feels the same about the ‘d’ word. In fact, demand in many territories is still strong, which is why Mercedes has just introduced a new diesel version of the iconic and gorgeously appointed G-Wagen.

Quite a beast but the 450d version does feature a mild-hybrid system. It uses a small battery to enhance performance, improve fuel efficiency, and perhaps get EV-sceptics used to the idea of full electrification.

The 450d easily managed 32mpg+ in our road test, and with a tank filled to the brim can manage up to 690 miles between the pumps. I’d forgotten how economical a diesel can be; the new electric G-Wagen would struggle to cover 250 miles between charges.

Not enough for a grand European tour like our Slovenian drive. Ljubljana is the fairytale capital of this former Eastern Bloc country. It’s a breathtaking city, complete with picturesque river, alfresco dining, cobbled streets and ancient buildings, all overlooked by a hillside castle.

Yes, not often you feel completely at ease straightaway in a major city. Ljubljana has a lovely, laid-back vibe. Spotlessly clean and, Green Laners, the centre is car-free!

On your must-visit list should be a river cruise and the funicular railway ride up to the castle, where the city views and distant Kamniske Alps are magnificent.

Or you could just wander around the streets and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. Ljubljana is famous for ice cream, beer and great food. Try the central market, which spreads across two squares and is the focal point of city life.

And despite the ban on cars in the city centre, there are plenty of hotels with spaces. The InterContinental is a modern high-rise block that was the first five-star property in Slovenia upon opening in 2017.

It’s a ten-minute walk from the city centre but the views are tremendous, especially from the roof-top bar. Everything is modern and slick, particularly the spa and pool on the 18th floor.

If you just can’t face a walk into town after a long drive, the B-Restaurant on the top floor should whet your appetite for the culinary treats on offer in Ljubljana.

Think international luxury hotel with all the trimmings. The InterContinental is also great value for money, especially if you fancy an autumnal city break or when the city lights up for the festive season.

And for those who like an adventure driving there from London, the Mercedes G450d will get there on just two tanks of diesel, with plenty to spare.

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G-Whizz! A Brief The History Of The G-Wagen

For more than four decades, Mercedes’ G-Class has stood for robustness, luxurious comfort and timeless design, whether you’re an Alpine farmer or a rapper. The mighty G has never strayed from its roots as a reliable companion and leftfield choice – for those who refuse to settle for an everyday Range Rover.

1979: Introduction of the original G-Class, manufactured completely by hand at Mercedes’ Graz plant in Austria. In 1983 the all-wheel drive scored an historic victory in the iconic Paris-Dakar Rally; it even became a Popemobile!

1989: The tenth anniversary of the G-Wagen was marked with an updated and upgraded model. Still instantly recognisable as a G, the new version offered extra comfort and, for the first time, a convertible.

1999: Mercedes gave the G-Wagen a power boost in 1993, fitting a V8 engine. However, when the brand’s performance arm AMG got involved, the G 55 added an extra supercharged boost.

2017: With a booming market for luxury SUVs, Mercedes launched the G 650 Laundaulet – a V12 monster with every conceivable extra and built in collaboration with luxury specialists Maybach.

2024: A new chapter in the G-Wagen story, with the launch of the first fully-electric all-wheel drive. The G 580 uses four electric motors to create a new kind of G-force.

Find out more about the Mercedes G 450d at mercedes-benz.co.uk

Jessica Talbot-Ponsonby is Director of Programmes at London College of Fashion, studying for a PhD in sustainable e-textile design.