This Mercedes SUV Will Dominate Any Jeep

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The 2017 Mercedes-Benz G550 4x4² will be able to tackle any terrain.

As the most capable G-Class ever, the G550 4x4² features innovative portal axles, three locking differentials, a ground clearance of over 17 inches and a 4.0-liter Biturbo V8 engine under the hood. The powerplant provides 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque for the off-road-ready luxury SUV, paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Much of the model’s appeal lies in the suspension, which boasts dual springs and damper struts, giving the G550 4x4² an extremely high range of available spring travel, ensuring maximum surface contact even on the toughest terrains.

But the major technical highlight are the portal axles, which allow for axle input and the wheel center to be two drastically different heights. Suspension geometry, steering connections and drive shafts can remain unchanged from other G-Class models, while load is reduced from all reciprocating components thanks to the internal gears found in the portal axles.

Expect pricing for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz G550 4x4² to be announced closer to its launch in early 2017.

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