Mercedes-Benz of Germany have officially listed the G 500 4×4² for sale from €190,000 (Rs 1.42 crore) before tax. It’s been out for a few months now, but why is it such a big deal?
So, the much-anticipated G 500 4×4² is officially on sale in Germany and parts of Europe. While Mercedes-Benz of India did mention it wasn’t coming here, what really stopping it from doing that? Considering its 1.42-crore price-tag in continental Europe, we can safely assume a price-tag of Rs 3.15 crore (ex-showroom) if it does arrive here. Why is it so special? Isn’t the G-Class already a class apart?
Yes, the G-Class is special, but this, the 4×4² version, is essentially a higher, more capable version of the standard G 500 based on the AMG G 63 6×6 but with a more toned down 4.0-litre V8 with 422 PS and 610 Nm. The transmission is still the 7G-Tronic+. With its stilts and plumbing, the 4×4² affords 438 mm of ground clearance, 203 mm more than the standard G-Wagen, while allowing an approach angle of 51.6°, departure angle of 43.8°, ramp breakover angle of 47.4°, with a slide slope capability of 73°, and a water-fording depth of 1 metre. The standard G-Wagen offers 30°, 27°, 24°, 54° and 600 mm in comparison – making the G 500 4×4² significantly more capable in the rough. Did we mention the 325/55 R22 tyres?
All of these add-ons mean more weight, and the 4×4² weighs in at 3,021 kg: 426 kg heavier than the G 500. Even so, there is little that the G 500 4×4² can’t handle and, seeing how demand was strong, there are more examples coming than the larger G 63 6×6 that’s for sure. Production? Did someone say 6×6 production too?
Story: Jim Gorde
