Mercedes AMG Puts the G Wagon on Stilts Again

Latest high-riding G-Class SUV brings back portal axles. They are paired to the 63 AMG version to possibly mark the end of V8 engines in the company.

If you are familiar with the recent history of this model, you will know that this is the latest member of a lineage. Mercedes Benz released the first 4×4² SUV in 2015, based on the G550 of the previous generation, two years later than the G63 AMG 6×6 pickup truck. There was also the G650 Landaulet blessed by Maybach’s design. Now, the maker showed yet another special edition for the G-Class.

On the outside, visual changes include fender extensions, 22-inch Mercedes Benz rims in off-road tires, carbon-fiber spare wheel cover, roof-mounted LEDs, and that exclusive green paint. Inside, you will find ambient lighting, more carbon fiber accents, a special startup screen on the infotainment screen, and a long equipment list which includes digital interior mirror, and leather-wrapped seats and steering wheel.

Screenshot: Mercedes-Benz (Jalopnik.com)

As the pictures show, the biggest differentiation in this SUV comes from the portal axles. They are the responsible for elevating the body almost the entire diameter of the Mercedes wheels. Such recipe was first used in the G550 and in the 6×6 models, with the former having the highest height of them all. While it is great for off-road driving, it takes a toll on everyday practicality and on aerodynamics.

When it comes to powertrain, this is probably the last use of AMG’s twin-turbo engine. The 4.0L V8 is good for 577 hp of power and 627 lb-ft of torque, a lot more than what the G550 4×4² delivered. Rather than focusing on track performance, Mercedes AMG revealed figures related to its off-road capabilities: approach angle of 45°, ground clearance of 13.8”, and water fording depth of 35.8”.

Screenshot: Mercedes-Benz (Jalopnik.com)

While those are all exciting news, the truth is that they come wrapped in nostalgia. Mercedes Benz as a whole is making a giant effort to electrify its line, whether entirely or partially. Since even the SL roadster is bound to embrace electrification, it is only a matter of time for the bulky, heavy, and definitely not aerodynamic G Wagon to do the same. And we are not talking about only the EQG.

With increasing pressure from national regulations, rising gas prices, issues in oil supply, and pure market competition, all cars will have to receive electric motors at some point. Mercedes Benz has simply taken an opportunity to celebrate its traditional V8 engine before releasing the facelifted G Class, which will certainly drop those types of powertrain for electrified ones in favor of efficiency.

The company announced that it will release full specifications later, which will include pricing and availability. All we know so far is that this model will be offered as a special edition, that is, it will be produced in a very short run. This is a sure way to make it even more special, since it is expected to have all units sold to collectors almost instantly.

Then again, you do not need to worry if you missed your chance to get it: Mercteil has a wide selection of genuine items for you to upgrade your G Wagon. From exhaust systems to Mercedes Benz wheels, we are sure you will find everything you need to make your SUV look better than ever.