Does the Mercedes-Benz G-Class have a clutch?

[DiElle]

Mercedes-Benz G-Class does not have a clutch because it is equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The 9-speed automatic transmission combines nine gears for both manual and automatic shifting, and it does not have a clutch pedal, functioning as an automatic transmission. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is equipped with a comprehensive range of active and passive safety features, including Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), auto-dimming exterior mirrors, full LCD instrument panel, LED daytime running lights, tire pressure monitoring, child seat anchors, side curtain airbags, engine start-stop, and more. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a rugged off-road vehicle under the Mercedes-Benz brand. This model is powered by two types of engines: a 2.0T turbocharged engine and a 2.0T twin-turbocharged V8 engine. The 2.0T turbocharged engine in the G-Class delivers 258 horsepower and a maximum torque of 370 Nm, while the 2.0T twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces 421 horsepower and a maximum torque of 610 Nm.

[LaPreston]

I often get asked by friends whether the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has a clutch, which is a pretty common question. First off, the standard versions of the G-Class come with an automatic transmission, so there's no clutch pedal—it drives just like any other automatic car, leaving your left leg completely free. Inside the automatic gearbox, components like the torque converter and clutch plates handle the gear shifts, all controlled by a computer to ensure smooth power delivery. However, older G-Wagen models from the last century or rare manual variants do come with a clutch pedal, though they're practically extinct in new models today. The G-Class excels in off-roading, and the automatic transmission makes it easy even for beginners to tackle steep slopes or gravel roads, saving a lot of effort compared to manual Jeeps. When driving the G63, what impresses me most is the rapid acceleration with just a press of the throttle, without worrying about gear shifts—especially comfortable in city traffic jams. In short, if you're buying a mainstream new model, there's no need to fret about the clutch; just enjoy the drive, as that component has long been integrated.

[LaMicah]

My experience driving the Mercedes-Benz G-Class several times has taught me that I never even touched the clutch pedal. It comes standard with an automatic system—just start it up, shift into gear, and go. The program handles gear changes, and simple coordination between the accelerator and brake is all you need. The automatic mode adapts to various road conditions, such as intelligently shifting gears on off-road steep slopes or sharp turns to avoid slipping risks. Compared to driving an old manual car, not having a sore left foot is a major perk, especially on long drives where it’s much more hassle-free. Of course, some modified or retro versions might have a manual clutch, but those are rare. I’d recommend it to friends who dislike complications—the G-Class driving experience is all about simplicity and reliability. The concept of a clutch is nearly invisible in an automatic car; just focus on the thrill of acceleration.

[KalebLee]

From a historical perspective, early manual versions of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class indeed featured a clutch pedal. However, current mainstream models like the G350 or G63 have transitioned to automatic transmissions, eliminating the pedal. Technological advancements have made automatic systems more durable, delivering seamless gear shifts without jerking. The clutch components are now integrated within the transmission, requiring no user intervention. When purchasing a new vehicle, there's no need to dwell on this—the optimized automatic design enhances off-road stability and safety.