Mercedes-Benz G550 4x4 to roll out in U.S. market in early 2017

(June 10, 2016) ATLANTA, Ga. — New for the 2017 model year, the Mercedes-Benz G550 4x4 will join Mercedes-Benz family of SUVs in the United States starting at $120,000. The 4x4 is the most capable G-Class ever, boasting innovative portal axles, three locking differentials, a ground clearance of more than 17 inches and a 4.0L Biturbo V8. The G550 4x4will be available in U.S. dealerships beginning in early 2017.

Since development of the G-Class began in 1972, the military-turned passenger vehicle has been hand-built in Graz, Austria. The name Gelaendewagen translates literally to "off road vehicle." Since 1979, more than 250,000 vehicles have been delivered to customers around the globe.

In the United States, the G550 4x4 joins the already-robust G-Class lineup, which features the 416 hp G550, the 563 hp AMG G63, and the 621 hp AMG G65, notably featuring a 6.0-liter V12 Biturbo engine producing a massive 738 lb-ft of torque.

Following in the footsteps of the AMG G63 6x6 (not available in the US market), the G550 4x4 utilizes the series-model G-Class platform as the starting point for an advanced off-road machine featuring advanced portal axles and aggressive body styling.

The ladder-type frame found in the G-Class provides the ideal platform for the immense capability afforded by the G550 4x4². Constructed of steel, up to 4mm (.16 in) thick in some areas, the frame requires over 6,400 individual welds to be fully assembled before it is dip-primed (utilizing electrophoresis) and powder-coated. All interior cavities of the frame are then treated with a hot wax for added protection against water, snow, salt and sand.

The frame of the G-Class provides a robust platform that is better suited for off- road use than a unibody, offering ideal protection for the fuel tank, exhaust system and drivetrain if the vehicle bottoms out on an off-road obstacle. When driving on articulating surfaces, the ladder-type frame prevents the body from twisting forces which could severely damage a more conventional unibody.

No modification or reinforcement to the frame found under existing G-Class models was required when building the G550 4x4 despite the adaptation of highly- specialized and capable portal axle system.

Equipped with dual springs and damper struts, the G550 4x4² has an extremely high range of available spring travel to ensure maximum surface contact even on the toughest off-road terrain. Adjustable-damping shocks are aided by two stabilizer bars ensure a comfortable ride off-road and sporty performance on-road despite a large amount of ground clearance.