2017 Mercedes-Benz G550 4×4² is Confirmed for the U.S.

Americans will officially be exposed to one of the most insane SUVs ever produced. Coming to U.S. showrooms early next year is the 2017 Mercedes-Benz G550 4×4², essentially the little brother to the gargantuan and ridiculous G63 AMG 6×6 (that never made it to America).

The G550 4×4², however, is far from little. With an overall height of 7.3 feet, the G550 4×4² (read “four by four squared”) is 11.7 inches taller than a normal G-Wagen. It also has a ground clearance of 17.2 inches, an increase of 7.9 inches compared to the standard version. The boost in ride height and ground clearance comes courtesy of its military-grade portal axles that are also featured in the 6×6.

Also unique to the G550 4×4² is its suspension setup consisting of two dampers and two springs at each corner. Its footprint is much wider, too, with a front track width increased by 9 inches and a rear track that’s wider by 10 inches.

The 6×6 is stuffed with an AMG-built engine, but the G550 4×4² makes do with the 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V-8 featured in the G550. Still, it offers plenty of grunt with 416 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque.

Once you’ve figured out how to climb into the cabin, you’ll find an interior that is essentially identical to other G-Wagens, including an updated COMAND infotainment system with a larger 8-inch screen. Mercedes says the G550 4×4² will join the U.S. G-Class family early next year. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but expect it to hover around or surpass the Mercedes-AMG G65, which commands $218,825.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

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