2017 Mercedes-Benz G 550 4x4² —

Overview

The 2017 G 550 4x4² is Mercedes-Benz’s high-clearance, off-road-focused variant of the W463 G-Class. It pairs the model’s traditional squared, utilitarian body with extensive factory upgrades to suspension, driveline and underbody protection, producing a purpose-built vehicle intended for serious off-road use while retaining the interior refinement and equipment expected from Mercedes. Power comes from a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 rated at 416 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque, routed through Mercedes’ automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel-drive system.

Powertrain and drivetrain

• Engine: 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 producing 416 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque (factory rating).
• Transmission: Mercedes automatic transmission (factory 7-speed automatic in this model year) with torque-converter operation and automatic shift programming.
• Drive system: Full-time all-wheel drive with a transfer case and low-range capability for slow-speed off-road work.
• Differential locks: Factory-fitted locking differentials (front, center and rear) that can be engaged for maximum traction in difficult terrain.

Chassis, suspension and underbody

• Portal axles: Factory-engineered portal axle design that raises the axle centers relative to the wheel hubs to provide substantially increased ground clearance versus a standard G-Class.
• Heavy-duty suspension: Upgraded springs and dampers with extended wheel travel and higher ride height for improved wheel articulation and off-road geometry.
• Wider track and flared wheel arches: Track is increased and wider fender flares are fitted to accommodate the larger wheels/tires and improve stability.
• Underbody protection: Factory skid plates and reinforced components to protect the transfer case, differentials and other vulnerable underbody items.
• Tow points and bumpers: Robust front and rear bumpers with integrated recovery points designed for off-road use.

Wheels and tires

• Factory-fitted large-diameter wheels with oversized off-road tires designed to work with the portal axle setup. Tires and wheel sizes are specified by Mercedes to provide load capacity and off-road traction appropriate to the 4x4² configuration.

Exterior features

• Classic G-Class boxy body shape with unique 4x4² exterior cues: widened fenders, raised ride height, and distinct upper body appointments.
• Rear door–mounted full-size spare wheel.
• Roof rack and factory-available roof attachments to increase cargo carrying capability.
• Robust exterior trim and hardware engineered for durability; heavy-duty door hinges and exposed fasteners consistent with the G-Class design language.
• Lighting: factory headlamps with integrated daytime running lights and turn indicators; auxiliary lighting arrangements were available or factory-installed depending on market and specification.

Interior and comfort

• Upholstery: leather seating surfaces and high-quality trim materials consistent with Mercedes-Benz standards; finish details include stitched surfaces and durable hardware suitable for mixed on- and off-road use.
• Front seats: power-adjustable front seats with heating as a standard comfort feature in many factory configurations.
• Climate control: automatic climate control (dual-zone) providing independent temperature settings for front occupants.
• Cargo and storage: conventional G-Class cargo area with tie-downs and removable floor coverings; interior built with practical storage and utility in mind.

Infotainment and electronics

• COMAND infotainment system (factory-standard system for the model year) with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio streaming, USB/AUX inputs and central display.
• Steering-wheel-mounted controls for audio and phone functions.
• Audio: a well-appointed factory audio system; premium audio upgrades (for example, branded premium speakers) were available from Mercedes as option packages.
• Driver aids: rearview ca