Mercedes-Benz is celebrating the G-Wagen with a limited-edition version called the ‘Edition 550’ and only 200 examples will ever be built.
The G-Wagen, also known as the G-Class or G-Wagon, is one of Mercedes’ oldest but most loved models.
Mercedes CEO Ola Källenius once famously said if “we ended up with only one vehicle in the line-up, it’d have to be the G-Class.”
So what’s unique about the new limited retro vintage model?
Mercedes wants to capture the essence of the original G-Wagen with a few style choices that make it look timeless.
Starting from the black bumpers and fender flares, along with the glossy black 14-inch wheels and the ‘Edition 550’ badging, which includes an emblem of a G-Wagen climbing a mountain.
There are only three colours available – Jupiter Red, Arabian Grey and Moonlight White – and the cabin is upholstered in two-tone nappa leather with carbon fibre accents.
The engine is the same 4.0-litre V8 that powers the standard 550 model, sending 416 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels courtesy of a 9-speed automatic.
Despite its heavy bulk, it can accelerate from standstill to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.
Unfortunately, this is a US-exclusive model, as all 200 units are only going to be available in the United States.
One of the reasons why people love the G-Wagen is because it’s both a brute and a beauty, and even though it has been upgraded and modernised over the years, it still looks the same as it did when it was launched in 1979.
Mercedes hasn’t revealed how much the Edition 550 will cost, but considering only 200 units will be available, you can expect a hefty premium over the standard G550’s $133,250 asking price, and that’s before we consider the inevitable (and notorious) dealership markups.
