It’s not everyday you see two quarter-million dollar SUVs->ke145 plunging into rocky riverbeds and barreling through muddy ditches, but that’s exactly what’s happening in Motor Trend’s latest episode of Head2Head.

Most everybody is familiar with the Mercedes G-Wagen.->ke1712 It’s Mercedes answer to the Jeep,->ke40 and likewise, the G served its time in the military. However, the most common place to find a G-Wagen is on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California. Mercedes’ most plush, powerful, and opulent version of G-Wagen is the Mercedes-AMG G65. It comes packing a 6.0-liter V-12 that cranks out 621 horsepower and an insane 738 pound-feet of torque.

Sadly, as our dubious hosts point out, the V-12 is a hunk of old-school tech that is in need of serious updating. Turbo lag and a small power band are the highest offences. On the other side of the muddy ditch is a 6.2-liter V-8 packing a supercharger within the Icon FJ44’s engine bay. This GM small-block might have its origins in the 1950s, but it still lays down 465 horsepower.

Now both SUVs are plenty capable off-road, but the Icon is certainly the more rugged of the two. Its no-nonsense interior and tall ground clearance allow it to traverse anywhere without damage – something we can’t say for the Mercedes G65. Conversely, the FJ44 would be nearly impossible to daily drive, whereas the Benz fits right in at your local Whole Foods or billionaire’s club.

So which SUV wins this crazy head to head? You’ll have to watch the video to find out. All I’ll say is it’s rather surprising and unforeseen. Click HD and full screen for the full effect.

Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG

Read our full review here.