 Hey, it's Zach from The Verge, and we're covering the 2019 Mercedes G-Class. Now, Mercedes held the event in this space, the Old Michigan Theater, because of the drama this space offers, not to mention the fire, smoke, and of course, Arnold Schwarzenegger. The event was a spectacle, which is fitting considering this off-road truck cost more than $100,000 to start. While the exterior looks much the same as the big boxy icon, it's finally a remade vehicle with modern technology. That's important given that Mercedes's most upmarket customers pick this SUV over any other in their lineup. It's a retro, unapologetic car that actually works in the modern tech world. When it comes to the interior, the 2019 G-Wagen has all the updated luxury features, despite its classic exterior. The G-Wagen is still a style statement more than anything else, with 10.6 inches of ground clearance and more go-anywhere capability than its owners will ever use. Its original mission in life was to be a military vehicle, of course, but this relaunch is an attempt to bring it more in line with its sedan counterparts like the S-Class flagship. Unfortunately, the G-Class doesn't include the company's newest infotainment system, NBUX. That's a shame, because it's also coming to production cars this year and has a voice assistant that rivals what Amazon and Google offer, but controls functions specific to Mercedes-Benz. Still, the new G-Wagen has a more harmonious user experience than ever, with two wide TFT screens available to view the gauges and infotainment functions. Anyone familiar with the current Mercedes models such as the E and S-Classes will feel right at home. While you're probably never going to take this truck off-road, Mercedes has not only retained the grip handle on the dash, but the three fully locking differentials from past models, and offers a new G-Mode, which adjusts different characteristics of the car, like steering and shocks. It's enabled when you lock any of the differentials or enter low-range mode. It's like putting your car in sport mode, but for off-roading. Mercedes will launch the new G-Class first with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, making 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. And while the car has never been light on its feet, they have shed about 375 pounds off the outgoing model, and put in a new 9-speed automatic transmission. We haven't heard yet on any information on the AMG variant, but it can't be far behind. The Torrentine G-Wagen is unmistakably a G-Wagen. Mercedes has retained the mechanical sounds of past versions. The doors are heavy with a vault-like click when they close. With the untrained eye, it's almost identical to the past models aside from the updated headlights. Which is fine, Mercedes knows its customers, and apparently this is what they want. I especially like the new emerald green metallic paint. But the story is all about the interior, which is a much-needed refresh. The old tablet-like screen has been way outdated, and taking on styling from the S-Class seems like a step this car should have taken years ago. It's very nice, but I would expect nothing less for a vehicle at this price point. The new G-Class will be available later this year, and while pricing is yet to be announced, you better have deep pockets if you're going to pick one up. For more from the Verge, you can visit TheVerge.com or subscribe to The Verge on YouTube.