Ordinarily, the announcement of anything related to the G-wagen would be cause for celebration. Sometimes it doesnโt even need to be anything officialโฆ weโll 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 wonโt be arriving to our sunburnt shores.
Yes, itโs 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 boyโs 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.
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In addition to the special badging โ i.e. emblem on passenger side grab handle denoting 1 of 200; similar emblem on front fenders with graphic of the 4ร4 climbing a mountain โ the G-class Edition 550 will feature black lower trim in place of the standard modelโs 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, youโll 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).