2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class 4x4 “Squared” Spied, Prototype Features Portal Axles

Expected next year as a 2022 model, the second coming of the 4x4 Squared has been spied for the first time ever strolling on German public roads. Based on the G 500 in Europe and known as the G 550 in the United States because Mercedes-Benz has a thing for confusing nomenclatures, the prototype in the photo gallery features a roof rack with two auxiliary lights up front and a full-size spare wheel affixed to the tailgate.

Though its predecessor had side-exit pipes for the exhaust system, this fellow here doesn’t show them. Only the G 63 comes with this setup while the G 500 and G 550 keep them hidden from sight, high out of harm’s way for the sake of off-roading. Given the considerable ground clearance of the G-Class 4x4 Squared, it doesn’t matter too much.

Based on the G63 6x6 AMG from a few years ago, those portal axles enabled a ground clearance of 450 millimeters (17.7 inches) and a fording depth of 1,000 millimeters (39.3 inches) for the previous-gen model. For reference, the Jeep Wrangler in Rubicon specification offers 274 and 762 millimeters (10.8 and 30 inches), respectively.

Opinions are still divided about what hides under the hood, though. Some say the 4x4 Squared will be elevated to Mercedes-AMG levels of performance while others are more conservative, believing that the G 500 / G 550 will serve as the basis for this off-road leviathan. Nevertheless, you’ll be treated to a 4.0-liter V8 engine as well as a pair of turbos.

The M176 in the lesser models is rated at 421 PS (416 horsepower) and 610 Nm (450 pound-feet) of torque, translating to 5.9 seconds to 100 km/h (62 mph). The M177 from the AMG is punchier at 585 PS (577 horsepower), 850 Nm (627 pound-feet), and 4.5 seconds.

“Will there be a turbo diesel?” Unfortunately, the G 350 d and G 400 d have slim to no chances at all of receiving the 4x4 Squared treatment. On that note, look forward to a nine-speed automatic transmission. 9G-Tronic is how Mercedes calls it, and when it launched, the three-pointed star quoted a maximum input torque of 1,000 Nm (738 pound-feet).

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