2016 Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4-Squared Priced from $265k, Arriving In December

 

The incredibly cool and macho new G500 4×4-Squared is officially available!

Orders are open now for this new flagship, with pricing from $230k Euros and 422 horsepower via a new twin-turbo powertrain.

The 4.0TT is shared with the AMG GT and delivers better power, efficiency and torque profiles than ever before. This engine is standard on the 4×4-squared as well as the standard G500 for this year, hitting 60-mph in just 5.9-seconds for the normal truck and up to 7.4-seconds as the 4×4-squared. The Squared’s biggest change mechanically is the addition of portal axles. Shared with the AMG 6×6, this tech delivers driveshaft power to the top of the wheels all around. In contrast to a standard setup with driveshafts at axle level, the portal configuration moves these up much higher in the wheel area. The result is a totally clean passthrough for rocks and obstacles that would otherwise be caught on the drivetrain.

The production variant is a perfect match for the concept — but so far, we have not see the LWB version of the G-Class that MB has hinted may be coming. It seems like a no-brainer to have in the lineup, so look for this new shape in 2017 with 7 seats possible. The delay is likely related to making the third row is seat safe for global crash tests.

This new G500 4×4-squared is stunning… but the standard G500 looks like a sweet spot of the lineup. The new engine’s sprint pace is down only a half-second versus the 5.4s and 5.3s sprint times of the G63 and G65 — yet far cheaper than either.

Abroad, a new G350d will make up the most volume with its turbodiesel setup. But in ultra-posh areas, expect the gasoline engines to stay dominant. After all, these consumers are typically not price- or eco-conscious (whatsoever…:).

The interior of the G-Class is also lightly refreshed with better tech, safety systems and leather choices.

As scooped at Amelia Island, the G63 Crazy Colors Edition is a fun option for shoppers to consider with its candy paintwork choices over gloss black details.

But the ultimate in royal G’s? Aside from the 6×6, that would have to be the new AMG Edition 463.

This G65 puts out a shocking 630HP from its V12TT. Pricing is up about $50k for the G63 versus the 4×4-Squared

If you ask nicely, the AMG team might even paint your Edition 463 G65 Solar Beam yellow to match the color of the concept G4x4-squared and the Crazy Colors Edition.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class (BR 463) 2015

 

2016 Mercedes-Benz G500 4×42

2016 Mercedes-Benz G500

 

 2016 Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4-Squared 

Alle Neuheiten der legendären G-Klasse ab sofort bestellbar: Der Mercedes-Benz G 500 4×4² geht in Serie
Stuttgart
Stuttgart – Outstanding response to the “Extreme-G”: the G 500 4×42 show car proved hugely popular with many customers and is set to enter series production. In the superlative-studded history of the G-Class, the G 500 4×42 is the new highlight in the model range. The technical package consists of the all-wheel drive powertrain including portal axles and the new 4-litre V8 engine with twin turbocharging and an output of 310 kW (422 hp). All the other G‑Class models have further improved interiors and powertrains, and meet the highest emissions standard Euro 6. The G 350 d, G 500, AMG G 63, AMG G 65 and G 500 4×4² can be ordered with immediate effect.
A new addition to the extreme G-Class model family: the AMG G 63 6×6 is gaining a sibling in the form of the G 500 4×42. The series-production models of the G-Class provide the basis in the form of the body and ladder-type frame, which compensate for the considerably increased performance of the G 500 4×42 with no problem and without any type of reinforcements. The AMG G 63 6×6 has contributed an adapted version of the permanent all-wheel drive powertrain with portal axles.
The new model is powered by the new V8 powerpack with a displacement of four litres, direct injection and twin turbocharging. The efficient and clean 4.0-litre biturbo engine develops an output of 310 kW (422 hp) and maximum torque of 610 newton metres, and meets the Euro 6 emissions standard including the maximum particulate limit prescribed from 2016. The eight-cylinder has a set of exclusive genes: it is based on the new generation of V8 engines developed by Mercedes-AMG that have already coaxed exceptional levels of performance out of the Mercedes-AMG GT and Mercedes-AMG C 63. The G 500 4×42 will be in Mercedes-Benz dealer showrooms from December 2015.
Things are really looking up both on and off-road
Also new is the chassis with dual spring/damper struts and adjustable damping. In the interior of the G 500 4×42, occupants enjoy comfort and an ambience on a par with a luxury saloon.In view of the key data for the chassis and powertrain it seems more than logical that the off-road world starts for the G 500 4×42 where other vehicles give up. But it is surprising that the new “G” also puts in an absolutely convincing performance on the asphalt. Owing to the considerably wider track of the portal axles compared with the series-production car (+299 mm), the large 22-inch 325/55 R 22-sized wheels and the adjustable damping with its Sport mode, the enhanced G-Class drives through bends so dynamically that the occupants feel as though they are in a sports car rather than a cross-country vehicle. This also applies to outings on unsurfaced slopes or snow-bound roads, in which case the performance of a high-powered rally car kicks in.
Permanent all-wheel drive, an off-road reduction in the transfer case, portal axles and three differentials lockable while on the move are not to be found in conventional cross-country vehicles. The portal axles developed for versatility in operation complement the off-road portfolio of Mercedes-Benz and are the technical highlight of the G 500 4×42. Unlike on conventional rigid axles, the wheels are not at the height of the axle centre but are instead situated much further below on the axle heads thanks to the portal transmission. As a result the ground clearance of the G 500 4×42 increases to 450 millimetres and the fording depth – or rather the diving depth – to 1000 millimetres.
Systematic further development and high-quality appointments
Since its launch in 1979, the G-Class has made history and is the foundation for the entire Mercedes-Benz SUV family. More than 250,000 vehicles have been delivered to customers since the first model of the G-Class was introduced. Mercedes-Benz keeps this legendary off-roader series in peak technical form with systematic further development and high quality appointments. The G-Class now offers up to 16 percent more power and a lower fuel consumption. The new V8 petrol engine is also used in the G 500. Whether diesel or petrol powered – all engine variants are fit for the future, for from now on they meet the requirements of the highest Euro 6 emissions standard. A new suspension setup together with more sensitive ESP® control results in increased driving stability, safety and road comfort. The exterior and interior have also been given an upgrade. The exclusive AMG special model, the EDITION 463, is being launched at the same time. The new models can be ordered with immediate effect, and will be in the showrooms from September 2015.
The models at a glance:
Model
Cyl.
cc
kW (hp)
Nm
0-100 km/h in s*
Selling pricein euros*
G 350 d
V6
2987
180 (245)
600
8.8
89,922.35
G 500
8
3982
310 (422)
610
5.9
105,035.35
G 500 4×42
8
3982
310 (422)
610
7.4
226,100
AMG G 63
8
5461
420 (571)
760
5.4
143,216.50
AMG G 65
V12
5980
463 (630)
1000
5.3
271,915
* for Germany, incl. 19% VAT

2016 Mercedes-Benz G500 Crazy Colors Edition

PREVIOUSA concept only in name, the new G500 4×4² does what it says on the tin: four-by-four — squared.

A giant wide-track design and 37-inch tires run much of the hardcore offroad tech from the AMG G63 6×6, but under the skin of the standard G-Class. This G500 runs the latest 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 from the AMG GT, but retuned to have rock-crushing torque at all times versus peaky high-rev horsepower. Even so, 422 ponies is plenty when riding this high off the earth below!

Mercedes calls this a concept, but the G500 4×4-squared is almost a sure-thing for limited-production this summertime. Ditto on the new drivetrain and turbo V8 becoming the base US-model Galendewagen for the 2016 model-year.

Intriguingly, Mercedes also mentions a LWB G500 in the specs below. We are looking at the SWB model in these photos, with the giant tires. But a long-wheelbase version on street rubber might be a production ‘G63 Black Series’ we dreamed up in digital form a half-year ago!

G63 Black Series Renderings

 

2015 Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4²

 

THE G-CLASS SQUARED

20/02/15

Stuttgart. Only a G-Class can better a G-Class. This is the credo followed by the developers with the Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG 6×6, and they are now stepping up a gear with the G 500 4×4². The basic recipe for this overcomer of everything is simple: take the superior all-wheel-drive powertrain including portal axles from the 6×6 – take away one axle – and blend it all with a newly-developed variable chassis and the series-production G-Class body. A large pinch of V8 power with 422 hp, a set of 22-inch 325/55 R 22-sized wheels, carbon-fibre detachable body parts and then just gourmet ingredients from the seductive designo Exclusive range for the interior – and the 5-star menu for all off-road enthusiasts is ready.

A new addition to the extreme G-Class model family: the G 63 AMG 6×6 has a model brother in the form of the G 500 4×4². The near-series show car is a new highlight in the superlative-rich history of the G-Class and blends all the advantages of the model series. The series-production models of the G-Class supply the unshakeable foundations in the form of the body and ladder-type frame, which compensate for the considerably increased performance of the G 500 4×4² without any problem and also without any type of reinforcements. The G 63 AMG 6×6 donates an amended version of the ruggedly determined permanent all-wheel-drive powertrain with portal axles. The engine compartment houses a completely new V8 engine with a displacement of four litres, direct injection and biturbocharging. Also new is the chassis with dual spring/damper struts and adjustable damping. Finally, on the inside, the G 500 4×4² occupants enjoy comfort and an ambience on a par with a luxury saloon.

New engine offers V8 biturbo power

The 4.0 litre V8 biturbo engine in the G 500 4×4² stands out for its sublime power delivery, the targeted lightweight construction, as well as its high efficiency. The newly developed eight-cylinder features twin turbochargers which are not mounted on the outside of the cylinder banks but rather inside the V configuration – what is known as the ‘hot inside V’. The advantages lie in the compact engine design, the optimum response and the low exhaust gas emissions. The piezo direct petrol injection used exclusively at Mercedes-Benz is responsible for the mixture formation. The spray-guided combustion process has been enhanced in the third generation to meet all future statutory requirements. In series production, the highly efficient and economical 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine would meet the Euro 6 emission standard, including the maximum particulate emissions level that will not take effect until 2016.

The V8 crankcase consists of an aluminium alloy and ensures maximum strength with the lowest possible weight. The cylinder walls in NANOSLIDE® technology are twice as hard as conventional cast-iron cylinder liners, minimise the inner friction and thus the fuel required and facilitate maximum mileages. NANOSLIDE® was developed by Daimler starting in the year 2000 and has so far been used successfully and reliably in over 200,000 engines since 2006.

Twin sidepipes on both sides in front of the rear wheels modulate the G-typical sound of the G 500 4×4² and master the entire repertoire of potent sports cars from soft mumbling in neutral through sonorous humming in the partial-load range to emphatic booming when accelerating under full load. A welcome side effect of the sidepipes: there is improved off-road capability, because in the rear area there are none of the usual rear silencers, which could otherwise restrict the angle of departure.

Things are really looking up both on and off-road

In view of the key data for the chassis and powertrain it seems more than logical that the off-road world starts for the G 500 4×4² where other vehicles capitulate. But it is surprising that the new “G” puts in an absolutely convincing performance on the asphalt. Due to the considerably wider track of the portal axles compared with the series-production car (+299 mm), the large 22-inch 325/55 R 22-sized wheels and the adjustable damping with its Sport mode, the enhanced G-Class drives through bends so dynamically that the occupants feel as though they are in a sports car rather than a cross-country vehicle. This also applies to tours on unsurfaced slopes or snow-bound roads, in which case the performance of a high-powered rally car kicks in.

For anyone preferring to use the G 500 4×4² off the beaten track, the optional off-road size 37 x 12.5 x 18-inch MT tyres are recommended. Permanent all-wheel drive, an off-road reduction in the transfer case, portal axles and three differentials lockable whilst on the move will not be found on conventional cross-country vehicles. This results in merciless driving dynamics in all conditions. Even the highest sand dunes are stormed by the show car with ease, whilst rocky terrain is scaled like a chamois, and water is driven through without any problems.

The portal axles developed for versatile applications supplement the off-road portfolio of Mercedes-Benz and are the technical highlight of the G 500 4×4² show car. As opposed to conventional rigid axles, here the wheels are not at the height of the centre of the axle, instead they are situated much further below on the axle heads due to the portal transmission. Therefore, on the G 500 4×4² the ground clearance rises to 450 millimetres and the fording depth – or rather the diving depth – to 1000 millimetres. Here is the off-road data in comparison with the series-production Mercedes-Benz G 500:

  G 500 4×4² Long-wheelbase G 500
 Ground clearance 450 mm 210 mm
Angle of approach/departure f/r 52 / 54 36/27
 Breakover angle 47 21
 Tipping angle 30 28°
 Fording depth 1000 mm 600 mm
 Slope climbing ability 100% 100%
 Wheelbase 2850 mm
 Track, front/rear 1774 mm 1475 mm
 Wheel/tyre combination 9.5 J x 22
325/55 R 22
7.5 J x 18
265/60 R 18

At the highest level: the portal axles’ tricks

But the portal axle design has yet more decisive advantages which render complex adjustments superfluous: through the unchanged position of the rigid axles in relation to the chassis, the anchorage points of the suspension, the steering connection and the position of the cardan shafts all remain identical. In addition, the reduction in the portal transmissions balances the huge rolling circumferences in both the off-road and the on-road tyres. The gear ratios, speedometer drive and ABS sensor system also remain unchanged. This reduction in the hub drives also has the effect that the drive torque is first set at the wheel and thus the mechanical loads in the entire powertrain, in particular for the drive shafts, are reduced.

Mobile declaration of independence – the chassis

The chassis is fundamentally based on the series-production G model and offers a perfect symbiosis of sporty dynamism and relaxed comfort, both on the road and off it. The new damper adjustment, derived from rally sport, has a decisive effect here. Two spring/damper struts running in parallel are used per wheel. One spring/damper strut works conventionally with set damper characteristics. The second spring strut has electronically controlled adjustable damping, which thus varies the entire damping behaviour depending on the current driving situation. With this set-up, considerable kingpin inclination is possible between the settings SPORT and COMFORT, which the driver can select using a button in the centre console. The switching times between the two modes are record-breakingly low, at 15 milliseconds.

During dynamic cornering the sporty setting performs sterling work, because the significantly tauter connection of the chassis allows higher cornering speeds. If the driver is more in the mood for pleasurable cruising, the COMFORT setting effortlessly dampens all the unevenness in the ground. In extreme situations such as abrupt evasive manoeuvres, the system automatically switches over to the firm setting for the sake of maximum possible handling safety. The comfortable setting also helps during off-road sessions, because the wheels retain better surface contact. Even on heavily contoured off-road terrain, every surface traction possibility can be utilised effectively.

Company with unlimited liability: beadlock wheels with MT tyres

Optimised tyres are available for the G 500 4×4², especially for punishing off-road trips: mud/terrain tyres (M/T) in size 37 x 12.5 x 18 inches on special beadlock wheels. Normally the usual wheel/tyre combinations refuse a traction-promoting lowering of the air pressure for journeys on sand, for example, to 0.5 bar. Here 1.0 bar is the lowest limit, because beneath this low pressure the tyres can come off during steering manoeuvres or ingression of sand can infiltrate the sealing surface between the tyre and wheel rim and thus leads to a slow puncture. Not so with the G 500 4×4². Here special two-piece 18-inch beadlock wheels are used. With this type of design, during assembly the tyre is pinched in so tightly between the two wheel halves and an inner beadlock ring that it cannot slip off the rim and no sand can enter, even in the case of total loss of air.

Should the chassis ever still come into harsh ground contact in spite of an anticipatory driving style and the excellent ground clearance, the developers have displayed far-sightedness here, too, and integrated a robust, two-piece underguard in stainless steel. These means that the most important assemblies in the front and rear area are well protected against impact and more severe shocks.

Sporty luxury squared

In visual terms the G 500 4×4² raises no doubts as to its passion. The voluminous tyres, the huge distance to the ground, the height of nearly 2.25 metres with a width of virtually 2.10 metres and the clear, straight design command respect right from the first glance. Further highlights: the trim with the integral LED light strips above the windscreen and the elaborate partially painted wheel-arch flarings both in fine carbon fibre -plus the front bumper on the G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG models.

The interior appointments make a sportily luxurious impression. The G 500 4×4² offers an exclusive ambience with the designo Exclusive package. 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. In addition to this there is DINAMICA trim for the roof liner and the body pillars.

The hub of the “G” world is in Graz

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class development department located in Graz is the centre of competence where all things “G” are concerned and is responsible for the development and series support of the legendary cross-country vehicle. Furthermore, Graz in Austria has been the production location for all civilian and commercial G-Class vehicles since 1979. Whether and when the decision on series production of the Mercedes-Benz G 500 4×4² will be made depends on the reaction which the near-series show car receives.

Tom Burkart is the founder and managing editor of Car-Revs-Daily.com, an innovative and rapidly-expanding automotive news magazine.

He holds a Journalism JBA degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Tom currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina with his two amazing dogs, Drake and Tank.

Mr. Burkart is available for all questions and concerns by email Tom(at)car-revs-daily.com.

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