Spy shots and video of 2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class 4x4 Squared: the luxury monster truck returns

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, one of the biggest and baddest SUVs in production, is about to get even tougher with the introduction of a new 4x4 Squared variant.

The 4x4 Squared option, available on the previous G-Class G550, gave this iconic SUV some serious off-road gear, including the portal axle that gave it its now-famous stance. This setup was derived from the 6x6 version of the G-Class, originally developed for military use and offered to civilians for a limited time.

Spy shots and video show the current G550 with the same fender flares and portal axles as the previous G550 4x4 Squared. There is also a roof rack with a new camouflaged front section.

In the case of the previous generation G550 4x4 Squared, the ride height was 17 inches over, and the new generation is likely to be the same. The previous generation G550 4x4 Squared also had permanent four-wheel drive, a reduction transfer case, three differential locks, and of course a portal axle. Unlike conventional axles, portal axles do not attach the wheels to the axle, but rather lower the ride height via a separate portal transmission.

Mercedes has not even said that it is working on a new G550 4x4 Squared, but given the prototype's nearly production-ready appearance, a debut is not far off: as a 2023 model, perhaps with a mildly updated version of the regular G-Class together with an expected launch later this year. It is highly likely that Mercedes-Benz AMG will offer its own version based on the G63.

The current G550 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 with 416 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque, while the G63 has the same engine but dialed up to 577 hp and 627 lb-ft. Both will come standard with a 9-speed automatic.

If you're interested in parking the new G550 4x4 Squared in your driveway, you better start saving. The last one was priced at $225,925, and new cars are expected to be even more expensive.

Mercedes has more in store for the G-Class. A battery-electric version, due around 2024, is also in development and could feature a sophisticated all-wheel drive system separate from the regular G-Class setup. Recall, Mercedes last year unveiled an EQC-based prototype, which is being used to develop an electric four-wheel drive system for off-road use.