2016 Mercedes-Benz G 550

Chassis No. WDCYC3KF6GX245457

The “form follows function” exterior styling of the Mercedes G-Class is as apparent today as in its first design studies from the early 1970s. Conceived as a light off-road vehicle for private use, the 'Geländewagen' was the result of a collaboration between Mercedes and Austrian conglomerate Steyr-Daimler-Puch, a firm well known for its all-terrain military vehicles. Early features were scarce, including a narrow track, Puch-designed locking differentials, manually operated windows, and, in the convertibles, a folding windshield for easy shipping. The civilian version of the G-Wagen went on sale in 1979 and quickly secured cult status for its indestructible appearance and its reputation for being able to traverse some of the most challenging terrain in the world.

Following the lead of Land Rover, Mercedes began targeting upscale buyers by offering an extensively upgraded G-Wagen for 1990, featuring a redesigned interior trimmed in leather upholstery and wood accents for the first time in the model's history. Despite the premium look and feel of the new W463 chassis, its utilitarian character was more prominent than ever in the form of three electronically locking differentials and anti-lock brakes. These refined touches foreshadowed the various upgrades to come in the following decades as the truck became increasingly luxurious and powerful, eventually arriving at its most comprehensive facelift yet in 2012. The 544 horsepower produced by the range-topping G 63 AMG was a clear line in the sand that the new G-Class was no longer the stripped-back offroader of the 1970s.

This particular example is a 2016 Mercedes-Benz G 550 finished in classic Polar White which does well to show off the iconic utilitarian styling. A stainless-steel brush guard, running boards, xenon headlamps, alloy wheels and other modern exterior details complement the robust boxy body. At the rear, a color-coordinated spare wheel cover is fixed to the tailgate, swinging aside to provide access to the generously sized rear storage compartment. As one would expect in a G-Class, the cabin is accommodating and luxurious, finished in optional Designo Classic Red leather upholstery and Black Piano Lacquer accents. The driver is treated to an optional heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated multi-contour front seats, and fresh air provided by the power-operated steel sunroof, while the heated second row offers rear passengers ample space and outstanding seating comfort. Additionally, this G 550 is well appointed with numerous safety and entertainment features including Distronic adaptive cruise control, blind-spot assist, Parktronic parking-assist, a Comand infotainment system, and a Harmon Kardon sound system.

Under the hood, a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 developing 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque propels this cocoon of luxury from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.7 seconds. More than just an autobahn missile, the G 550 stays true to its off-roading roots, leaving the low-range four-wheel drive, three locking differentials, and solid front and rear axles untouched. Having covered 60,400 miles from new and benefitting from a recent service in November 2022, this epic Mercedes 4x4 is poised for many more off-road adventures.