Ordinarily, the announcement of anything related to the G-wagen would be cause for celebration. Sometimes it doesn’t even need to be anything official… we’ll happily lap up any cool content remotely in the same airspace. Except in cases such as today, where Aussie motor enthusiasts discover the new Mercedes-Benz G-class Edition 550 won’t be arriving to our sunburnt shores.
Yes, it’s unfortunate. But all 200 units of the forthcoming limited-edition release will be a US market exclusive. Based on the non-AMG G550, it houses a 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission, which generates 306kW and 612Nm of torque. More than enough technical grunt to carry all the added niceties its yank drivers will enjoy (as well as the undoubtedly smug yank itself). This bad boy’s also more than capable of off-roading, achieving 0-100 in approximately 5.6 seconds with a top speed just shy of 210 km/h.
RELATED: Someone Turned Their Suzuki Jimny Into The Dream Baby G-Wagen
In addition to the special badging – i.e. emblem on passenger side grab handle denoting 1 of 200; similar emblem on front fenders with graphic of the 4×4 climbing a mountain – the G-class Edition 550 will feature black lower trim in place of the standard model’s body-colour bumpers and fender flares. Although as noted by Car & Driver, the wheels appear to be the very same black 20-inch AMG 14-spoke numbers available on the standard model. As for the interior, you’ll find two-tone nappa leather upholstery with the option to install massage seats.
The G-wagen variant comes in three special Mercedes Manufaktur colours: Jupiter Red, Arabian Grey, or the brand-new Moonlight White. Pricing and first delivery date for the Mercedes-Benz G-class Edition 550 have yet to be confirmed. Not that it really matters to us.
Check it out below (and try not to turn green with envy).
