Mercedes Off-Roader Cars

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is unique among all Mercedes models. It’s the only one of its kind in the German automaker’s lineup that’s able to balance an off-road identity with sporty and luxury goods surrounding it. It could also evolve into a model that plays into those two latter characteristics. That’s the word coming out of G-Class product chief Dr. Gunnar Guthenke, who hinted that a hotter S version of the Mercedes-AMG G 63 and a Maybach G-Class could be in the works.

Mercedes decided to give the new but old-looking G-Class the AMG treatment for 2018, effectively bringing the AMG G63 into the fold. The hand-built 4.0-liter takes on the “Hot-V” design and delivers a cool 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. A nine-speed auto handles shifting duties and routes power to the full-time 4WD system. Despite the fact that it is essentially the boxiest vehicle on sale today, it can manage to hit 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds and will top out at 149 mph, if you’re brave enough to pin the accelerator to the floor for that long. It’s not a cheap model, though, so I’m sure some of you fantasize about it on a daily. So, why not snag up one or two of these hand-picked wallpapers to spruce up your home or work desktop?

It’s bad enough that someone stole this man’s Mercedes. To make matters worse, it was found wedged in a mini-jungle, requiring a chainsaw to extract. Now, that sucks. Check out the video below.

Mercedes has just unveiled the long-awaited 2019 AMG G63 – the go-fast version of its all-new 2019 G-Class, which is still hot off the auto show stage. Its official name is the Mercedes-AMG G63, and it’s better in every measurable way over the outgoing model. Not only does the G63 benefit from the G-Class’ new appearance, swanky interior, wider stance, and updated suspension system, it also boasts a slew of AMG parts that push this SUV into sports car territory.

Continue reading for more on the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has quite the reputation. Combining classic off-roader capability under the skin, a tall, boxy, iconic exterior style, and more opulence than a Malibu mansion in the interior, the G-Wagen is often a top pick among celebrities and well-heeled buyers looking to make a statement. Merc just dropped details on the latest 2019 model year for the G-Class, prompting some buyers to eye the options list in anticipation of delivery later this year. However, one Russian man from Siberia decided to play it cool and put together his own G-Class using – you guessed it – ice.

The man’s name is Vladislac Barashenko, and he just so happens to own a custom car shop, an asset that undoubtedly went a long way to helping him put together this ice box. Under the chiseled skin is the drivetrain of a Soviet-era UAZ-469 military jeep, which helps to give it the appropriate off-roader vibe. Meanwhile, on the outside, the icy body is lit by a series of LED strips that give the machine a multi-colored iridescent glow. It’s also got built-in GPS, as if you drive too far south, it’ll melt.

Indeed, this thing brings a whole new meaning to the term “slippery looking.” Check out the video to see it in action.

I’m old enough to remember when the Mercedes G-Class was originally introduced back in 1979. It was heavily based on its military counterpart, it was heavy and underpowered, and it was far from luxurious. But it became an instant hit, and I loved it. And it remained one of my favorite SUVs for decades. The boxy hauler was significantly revised in 1990, and it remained largely unchanged since then, despite technology and drivetrain upgrades. Almost three decades later and Mercedes launched the third-generation G-Class. And the Germans almost ruined it.

Mercedes-Benz had a big showing at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit this year surrounding its all-new 2019 G-Class SUV. This tried and true vehicle has a long history of extreme service, both in military and civilian service. One of the most recent events was accomplished by the famous explorer, Mike Horn, whose 2016 Pole2Pole expedition took him around the globe via the north and south poles. The journey traced a route from Europe to Africa, the Antarctic, Oceania, Asia, the Arctic, North America, and back to Europe.

Horn, a Mercedes-Benz Ambassador, used the outgoing G-Wagen to complete the on-land portion of his epic trip. The rest was done on his boat, the Pangaea, on snow skis, and by foot.

The G-Wagen, a G500, needed only minimal changes to endure the trip. It rolls on BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM tires on stock Mercedes wheels. A matching full-size spare tire replaces the stock wheel on the tailgate. A roof basket with a ladder added storage and a spot for mounting the two off-road lights. Beyond that, the G500 is bone stock, including the 4.0-liter biturbo V-8 and its 415 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. Of course, the G500’s stock locking differentials certainly helped. The G-Wagen has three lockers, in fact, one up front, one in back, and in the center transfer case.

Give Mercedes-Benz credit for this: no amount of leaked images will spoil it by teasing the upcoming Mercedes G-Class. We’ve already seen the all-weather SUV running roughshod in a snowy landscape. Now, it’s taking its marauding madness to the sand dunes with a new teaser photo that shows next-to-nothing except for a peek at the front section of the SUV.

The lack of identifiable body bits doesn’t really matter anymore because the aforementioned leaked photos gave the jig up. We know that the new G-Class will keep its iconic look. With the exception of a few bits and pieces, the new G-Class will remain identifiable to anybody who sees it. That’s not to say that the SUV will be completely the same. Looks aside, this is a new model that’s packing plenty of new tech features and the latest in state-of-the-art technology. The interior, in particular, boasts a reconfigured layout and a new digital instrument cluster, among other niceties.

We’ll leave the technical details for Mercedes to reveal, but the new G-Class is shaping up to be another German masterclass in robust off-roading. The SUV is scheduled to make its debut at the North American Auto Show in Detroit next week. Before that, a third and final teaser will be unveiled on January 14. It doesn’t matter now since we already know what the G-Class looks like, but in keeping with the theme of the first two teaser photos, we’re guessing that this one takes place in a jungle. Perhaps even outer space? No, that’d be too much.

America won’t be getting the new Mercedes-Benz X-Class pickup truck anytime soon, and Mercedes isn’t making it any easier for those wanting a three-pointed star on their midsize truck. The German automaker, along with two aftermarket companies, is showcasing several camping concept options. The first, designed by the coachbuilder Tischer, is a slide-in camper specifically designed for the X-Class. The second is a bed-mounted kitchen unit from VanEssa.

The Tischer camper transforms the X-Class into a mobile home that can traverse some pretty rough terrain. Though built for a mid-size truck, the camper is still five feet wide and has 6.5-feet of headroom. It boasts room for three, a kitchen with a three-burner stove, a sink, and bathroom complete with a shower and toilet. Impressively, there are also two beds.

For those not wanting a full camper, VanEssa showcased its mobile kitchen unit. It mounts in the X-Class’ cargo bed and slides out when in use. It includes a sink, a cool box, a stove, and storage for cooking and eating utensils. There is even another pull-out module for more storage. The VanEssa system is protected by a nifty tonneau cover made from teak wood, just like the deck of a yacht. The cover can be lifted to a 45-degree angle for loading supplies into the bed.

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With almost 40 years of history now in the books, it’s time for the Merc G-Wagen to get a substantial update. But before that happens (the new-gen is expected to show at the Detroit Motor Show next year), the German automaker is releasing a new, glossier, limited production run dubbed the G 65 Final Edition. Bearing the same AMG-branded bones as the standard G 65, the Final Edition adds a host of aesthetic enhancements to help it stand out from the crowd. Outside, you’ll find large wheels, specialized trim pieces, and black and bronze coloring, while the interior comes decked out in nappa leather, carbon fiber, and unique badging, all set in the traditional top-shelf G-Wagen luxury.

Merc says over a third of its G-Class vehicle sales are the AMG variants, so it makes total sense to release this spruced-up special edition before we wave goodbye. With only 65 units slated for production, Mercedes is banking on exclusivity to move this thing, because they certainly won’t come cheap. Pricing starts at a whopping 310,233 Euros, which is around $368,000 at current exchange rates (10/19/2017). And in case you’re keeping track, that’s about $150,000 more than the standard AMG G 65. Seriously. So what the hell makes it worth all that extra outlay? Read on for the details.

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The Mercedes-AMG G 63 may look like a car that has little care for the world of aftermarket tuning, but that couldn’t be further away from the truth. The hulking SUV has actually been a favorite subject among aftermarket tuners, and we see that on full display with this new tuning program from Poseidon.

The program is called the G 63 RS 850, and you don’t need to be a mathematician to know that the “850” in the program’s name refers to the kind of power the AMG G 63 now has at its disposal. The extra grunt is complemented by a series of exterior and interior upgrades, all of which combine to create a tuning kit that establishes a more flamboyant personality out of Mercedes-AMG’s resident mastodon. The RS 850 kit may not be the first program for the AMG G 63 to dip into this kind of tuning upgrade, but rest assured, this upgrade brings a lot more to the table than what we’ve seen in the past. Consider this program, then, a top-of-the-line choice for owners of the AMG G 63. Whatever you may want to do to your premium, off-roading ride, there’s a good chance that Poseidon has the upgrade that’ll leave a smile on your face.

Continue after the jump to read more about the Mercedes-AMG G 63 RS 850 by Posaidon

On one hand, a go-anywhere, do-everything car like the Mercedes-AMG G65 is already fine on its own. There’s not a lot this hulking machine can’t do. It’s fast, powerful, luxurious, and has all the utility chops to literally go places others can only dream about going. On the other hand, there is something appealing about having a car like the AMG G65 and still have options to do something with it. Maybe slap on an aerodynamic kit? Perhaps an engine tune? The possibilities are all there, and these possibilities are being brought to life – yet again – by Brabus.

I don’t suppose it deserves another mention as being one of the best Mercedes-AMG tuners in the business, and yet, here we are again. Brabus’ new program for the Mercedes-AMG G65 V12 touched down at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show and as you might expect, it’s dripping in modifications. It features a wide-body aerodynamic body kit, a fancy-schmancy interior dress-up, a new set of wheels, and a massive engine upgrade that, at least according to Brabus, makes this vehicle “the world’s most powerful twelve-cylinder off-road vehicle.” At some point, all of Brabus’ claims become irrelevant because we already start to expect greatness out of its programs without the tuner telling us all about it. That’s what it feels like looking at the AMG G65 Brabus 900PS. The tuner may as well be right in saying that no other 12-cylinder off-roader is as powerful as this beast, but we expected that already to begin with. That’s clout that only years of excellence can justify.

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The next-generation Mercedes G-Class is on its way for 2018. It’s been a long time coming for the company’s resident off-roader, but after years of updates upon updates, the time has finally come for an all-new G-Class to break cover. But before that happens, the German automaker is going to milk the current G-Class for all of its worth. That includes heading to the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show with “Exclusive Editions” for both the Mercedes-AMG G 63 and the Mercedes-AMG G 65.

Now I know that these special editions can wear thin on people, especially if they’re done too often or for the wrong reasons. But I don’t think that’s the case here. I think that of all Mercedes-AMG models in the performance brand’s lineup today, these two titans deserve to have a fitting send-off before the next-gen models arrive in 2018. That’s a big reason why I’m actually looking forward to the AMG G 63 Exclusive Edition and the AMG G 65 Exclusive Editions. And for what they’re worth, both literally and figuratively, so should you. The G-Class, after all, has been a stalwart of Mercedes’ lineup for almost 40 years and while it has received countless updates in the past, it’s rarely been given a next-generation treatment. Now that it’s on the precipice of getting one – arguably just the third time in its history – these Exclusive Editions of the AMG G 63 and G 65 are proper ways of giving the current G-Class the tributes it deserves.

Continue after the jump to read more about the Mercedes-AMG G 63 and Mercedes-AMG G 65 Exclusive Editions.

Mercedes-AMG wasted no time releasing a hot-rod version of the all-new 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV. The G-Class still retains its iconic, boxy design and ladder frame chassis, but is completely modernized in every other measure. From the twin-turbo V-8 and new suspension system to the high-tech, leather-lined interior, the new Mercedes-AMG G63 is the new high-water mark for the automaker.

Mercedes is set to officially debut the G63 at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show on March 6, after which the production version will arrive in showrooms toward the end of 2018. Naturally, the price is steep – likely costing more than the 2018 G63’s $142,800 here in the U.S.

We should know more as Mercedes-AMG debut the 2019 G63 at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, so stay tuned to TopSpeed.com.

Update: 02/13/2018: Mercedes-AMG has released photos and preliminary information about the all-new, 2019 G63 SUB ahead of its official debut at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show on March 6.

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Well, Mercedes-Benz has officially debuted its first metric-ton (mid-size) pickup truck, the X-Class. But the truck isn’t a ground-up creation from Mercedes – rather the X-Class is based on the current Nissan Navara NP300. Mercedes has been forthright with its partnership with Nissan, saying it’s leveraging Nissan’s experience in the segment. But Thankfully, the X-Class isn’t a Navara with a Mercedes star slapped on – or so Mercedes says. In fact, the two trucks are rather closely related, though there are major differences between them. Let’s dive in and see what’s up.

Nissan has been building trucks since 1933, but it was the 1980s that brought iconic Hardbody the U.S. In 1997, Nissan changed the name to Frontier, while everywhere else in the world, the Navara name was used. The latest version debuted for the 2015 model year, marking the Navara’s third generation. As a traditional truck, it rides on a fully boxed ladder frame while power is sent to the solid rear axle or all four wheels via a part-time 4WD system. However, Nissan chose a five-link, coil-spring setup for the rear suspension, giving the pickup a smoother ride with a slight trade-off in payload and towing capacity versus its competition. American truck enthusiasts will spot same thinking within the Ram 1500 and 2500 pickups’ rear ends. Not surprisingly, this setup translates well to a pickup billed as “premium,” so naturally, the X-Class borrows the design. But you won’t find a Nissan engine under the X-Class’ hood – and that’s just the beginning of the changes. Keep reading for more.

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God love Mercedes-Benz and its outlandish imagination for all things off-roading. The automaker has built a one-off 4x4² version of its new E-Class All-Terrain. Yes, a 4x4²! You’ll recognize that odd designation from the AMG G550 4x4², the four-wheeled version of the high-riding AMG G63 6x6. But it’s not just the name that’s similar. Mercedes actually fitted the E-Class wagon with the same Portal hubs as the G550 4x4². The extra height gives this AWD car a whopping 16 inches of ground clearance. That’s equal to a Humvee!

The project is the brainchild of Jürgen Eberle, a vehicle development engineer assigned to the E-Class. According to Auto Express, Eberle wanted to build something that gave the new 2017 E-Class All-Terrain some credence to its name. Eberle was eventually given a small budget after approaching his bosses with the idea. The E-Class suspension was modified to accommodate the large portal hub assemblies at each wheel, which drastically widened the E-Class’ track. This necessitated fender flares, which Eberle and his team crafted from carbon fiber. Beadlock wheel and 31-inch-tall winter tires were then added to round out the project. The best part – nothing else changes. The remainder of the exterior and all of the interior is standard E-Class All-Terrain, making this one awesome looker.

Continue reading for more on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain 4x4².

Mercedes-Benz just revealed the X-Class, its very first pickup truck model, with the aim of mixing traditional off-road capability and utility with high-end German engineering and refinement. The debut took place during a live stream event in Cape Town, South Africa, and lacked the flair and excitement we expected from such a high-profile reveal, although we did get to see Dieter Zetsche, head of Mercedes-Benz and mustache enthusiast, in a cowboy hat, so not all was lost. We’ve been following Mercedes’ trail of breadcrumbs pretty closely in anticipation of the launch, but now we have solid details on everything from the interior tech, trim levels, powertrain, its on-sale date, and pricing.

Let’s tackle the oily bits first, shall we? Merc revealed a slew of engine options for the new X-Class, with both four-cylinder and six-cylinders on the table. The X-Class is rated at 1.1 tonne (2,425 pounds) for the payload and 3.5 tonne (7,716 pounds) for towing, and will come with either RWD or 4WD for traction. Both a six-speed manual and seven-speed automatic are available for the transmission options. Pricing will start at 37,000 euros ($49,455 at current exchange rates, 07/18/2017) with sales commencing in November in European markets. South Africa and Australia will get the X-Class in early 2018, while Argentina and Brazil must wait until the beginning of 2019. Want more? Read on for engine specs, trim level info, and interior tech details.

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The wait is finally over as Mercedes-Benz prepares to debut its all-new X-Class today at 1:14 P.M. Easter time. The X-Class is Mercedes’ first foray into the pickup truck market – a segment dominated by industry stalwarts like the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, and Volkswagen Amarok. Mercedes definitely has plenty to prove, but we should have a clear understanding this afternoon of how serious Mercedes is with dominating the segment. We’ve included the link to watch the live debut on YouTube, so stick around for that. In the mean time, let’s look at what we know about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz X-Class.

The mid-size, consumer pickup segment is completely new for Mercedes, however, the German automaker isn’t alone in its endeavor. Mercedes partnered with Renault-Nissan in developing the X-Class, aided by Nissan’s long history with building metric-tonne pickups. In fact, the X-Class is based on the Nissan Navara NP300. But don’t expect warmed-up Navara leftovers with a three-pointed star tacked on. Mercedes says the X-Class has been groomed specifically for its luxury-minded clients. Changes include Mercedes-built powertrains, upgraded suspension components, unique bodywork, and a wholly Mercedes cabin inside. It’s doubtful even the simplest switches and buttons are borrowed from Nissan. Nevertheless, the X-Class benefits from the Navara’s fully boxed ladder frame, body structure, and five-link rear suspension – all of which are proven. Combine that with a high-end interior (hopefully with E-Class styling), and the X-Class should be a huge success. Sadly, Mercedes is not bringing the X-Class to North America – at least right now. Corporate bigwigs are still unsure about tackling the ultra-competitive American pickup market. Hopefully, that changes with Ford’s launch of the U.S.-spec Ranger in 2019.

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Mercedes is debuting its X-Class pickup truck tomorrow (July 18), and we couldn’t be more excited. And while this marks Mercedes’ first foray into building pickups, the X-Class is expected to lead in luxury and refinement, while still offering competitive capabilities inherent to a mid-size pickup. Rumors of this pickup date back more than a year, with speculation and spy shots providing hints at Mercedes’ plans. We compiled that information into a rendering back in 2016, aided by current design themes seen throughout the Mercedes lineup. Now with the X-Class teaser video online, we’re comparing how our rendering measures up with reality.

At first blush, the X-Class is already familiar thanks to use of Mercedes design themes and elements. The front end especially looks like the GLE-Class SUV, and that’s exactly where we borrowed inspiration for our rendering. However, the X-Class’ bones don’t hail from Germany, but rather Japan. Remember, Mercedes has partnered with Renault-Nissan to co-develop its pickup with the Navara NP300. The trucks will share the same body-on-frame construction and basic suspension components, but that’s about it. Mercedes has said its X-Class will be groomed to impress its discerning customers, with a more refined ride, Mercedes powertrains, and wholly Mercedes designs inside and out. So, let’s get a closer look at our rendering verses the X-Class in Mercedes’ teaser video.

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Mercedes-Benz has released a teaser video for is upcoming X-Class pickup, along with announcing the mid-size truck’s official debut on July 18, 2017. This will be the first time anyone outside Mercedes has seen the new pickup in production form, and will hopefully be accompanied by official details. So far, Mercedes has only shown concept vehicles of the X-Class and laid the general theme of the truck. Sadly, Mercedes boss Dieter Zetsche confirmed at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show the X-Class will not initially be sold in the U.S., though he said that could change in the future.

The teaser video certainly lives up to its name, giving only darkened hints at the pickup’s styling. However, the front fascia is clearly seen in a few frames. The styling is more reserved that that of the two X-Class Concepts from 2016. Chrome trim resides on the traditional-looking bumper and grille, as well as the roof rails, side window trim, running boards, rear bumper, and bed-mounted sports bar. LED headlights, daytime running lights, and taillights are also a certainty. Beyond that, all that’s known is what Mercedes has previously announced. Here’s the highlights: the X-Class is based on the Nissan Navara pickup, but will have Mercedes-spec powertrains and have Mercedes-only bodywork and interior designs. The truck will be built by Renault in Argentina and by Nissan in Spain and caters to the premium market. We’ll bring you a full run-down of the X-Class come July 18.

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It’s no secret the Mercedes-Benz Geländewagen, or G-Class, is an aging beast. First debuting in 1979, this body-on-frame SUV hasn’t changed much in 30 years. However, Mercedes is constantly adding special edition models and potient powertrains to the G-Wagen, keeping it fresh – at least on the surface. The latest examples of Mercedes’ lipstick-on-a-pig just debuted: the designo manufaktur Edition and the Exclusive Edition. Both models add extra flash to the G-Wagen’s body and interior, while leaving the greasy bits alone.

The two special editions are paired with certain models of the G-Class. The designo manufaktur Edition can be had with their the G350 d or the G500. The Exclusive Edition lives up to its name and is only offers on the AMG-branded G63 and G65. Aside from the fashionable add-ons, the G-Wagen is getting the automaker’s “Mercedes me connect” communication services. The free service includes integrated onboard communications for automatic emergency calls (eCall), accident recovery, breakdown management, and a full-time customer service department.

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It’s not everyday you see two quarter-million dollar SUVs 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. It’s Mercedes answer to the Jeep, 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.