The Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4² (read “squared”) was first unveiled at 2015 Geneva Motor Show. Based on Mercedes’ monstrous six-wheeled G63 AMG, the G500 4×4² came with two less wheels.
The Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4² (Squared) shown in the photographs was showcased at Mercedes-Benz dealer B U Bhandari in Baner, Pune.
The G63 AMG 6X6 off-roader which featured three axles and five locking differentials was dearer at a price tag of 3 crore-plus (excluding duties) and a limited production run of about 100 vehicles. At the 2015 Geneva show, when Mercedes introduced the bold, imposing G500 4×4 Squared, it said it would consider production based upon the reaction it received.
Essentially, the G500 4×4 Squared is a normal G Wagon with parts and underpinnings carried over from the six-wheeled G63 AMG and with serious upgrades for rough terrain.
The G500 4×4 Squared owes its towering presence. It stands at a height of nearly 2.25 metres which comes from the car’s 450mm ground clearance- a result of the portal axles incorporated on the SUV.
Unlike on conventional rigid axles, the portal axles allow the wheels to be mounted further below the height of the axle center. As a result, the ground clearance of the G 500 4×4² marks at 450mm (17.7in) and the fording depth to 1,000mm (39,3in).
The SUV can be driven at tilt angle of as much as 30 degrees, up slopes of 52 degrees and down slopes of 54 degrees, making it a seriously capable off-roader.
The G500 4×4 comes equipped with permanent all-wheel drive, an off-road reduction and three differential locks.
The SUV loses the AMG-spec engine. Powering the G500 4×4² is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 producing 415 hp and 610Nm of torque, similar to the unit that powers the C63 AMG and AMG GT sports car, and is mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission.It accelerates from a standstill to a 100 kmph in around 5.7 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 210 kmph.
The SUV runs on 22-inch wheels, 325/55-section tyres.
The interior is sporty and luxurious. The seat bolsters and head restraints as well as the dashboard, centre console and armrests in the doors are styled in black designo leather with white contrasting topstitching.
The seat surfaces and door panels are covered in DINAMICA and impress with their attractive diamond-design quilting.
The Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4² (Squared) shown in the photographs was showcased at Mercedes-Benz dealer B U Bhandari in Baner, Pune.
Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4² (Squared) image gallery
