Nother CarGuy

The latest in a string of special-edition G-Wagens, the G500 4x4² features the same kind of portal axles as the AMG G63 6x6 and the Maybach G650 Landaulet, meaning that the wheel hubs are actually lower than the axles. That gives it nearly a foot and a half of ground clearance and a fording depth of three and a quarter feet. Instead of the AMG-built V8 or V12 engine, though, the G500 version packs a “standard” 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, sending 422 horsepower to all four of the 22-inch wheels. It also does away with the other added features of the AMG and Maybach versions to deliver the high-driving experience without the added fanfare. Price, as a result, is lower, but only in relative terms. The G500 4x4² retails for €231,693 euros (including 19% tax) in Germany, which puts it far out of reach for most of us. Not to worry, though, because from the end of this month, it won't be available anymore, anyway. Carscoops

Short, perhaps, of the G63 6x6, it's hard to imagine the Mercedes-Benz G500 4x4² getting much more hardcore. But Brabus is out to do exactly that with its new 550 Adventure. Marking its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, the truck you see here is an even more extreme take on the jacked-up version of the G-Wagen than the one Brabus displayed in Frankfurt half a year ago. The difference with the Brabus 550 Adventure 4x4² principally comes down to the enhanced engine. Instead of 416 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque, the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 now kicks out 542 horsepower and 590 lb-ft. The expert Merc tuner says that's enough to rocket the big beast to 62 in just 6.7 seconds and push that barn door up to 130 miles per hour – no small feat considering the G500 4x4² weighs a good three tons. Taking the holistic approach to tuning as it typically does, Brabus also fitted underbody protection, a winch, hood scoop, extra lighting, an electronically adjustable suspension, and more. ...