2017 Mercedes Benz G550 4x4

New for the 2017 model year, the Mercedes-Benz G550 4x4 will join Mercedes-Benz family of SUVs in the United States. The 4x4 is the most capable G-Class ever, boasting innovative portal axles, three locking differentials, a ground clearance of more than 17" and a 4.0L Biturbo V8. The G550 4x4 will be available in US 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.

Tosan Aduayi, a motoring journalist since 1994, is the founder and publisher of Trendy Africa Magazine and has reported on Motoring with trademark columns (Roadrunner, Carliners). He is also the founder of Flowtran global.