Hardcore Mercedes G-Class 4x4 Squared Hits California Highway

For the first time in its model history, the venerableMercedes G-Classis going electric. This was perhaps inevitable as Mercedes prepares to become a fully electric automaker by 2030. Next month, Mercedes willpreview the electric off-roaderat the Munich Motor Show with a concept before the production versionallegedly arrives in 2024. This isn't the only new version of the G-Class Mercedes is working on, however.

Over the last year, numerous spy photos and videos have confirmed that a new version of thehardcore Mercedes G-Class 4x4 Squaredis in development, even though Mercedes hasn't officially announced its return. As it gets closer to production, Mercedes has been caught testing the G-Class 4x4 Squared on a highway in California.

In a YouTube video by KindelAuto, we get a clear look at the new hardcore G-Class as it cruises on the highway. The regular G-Class is already regarded as one of the most capable SUVs in its class, but the new 4x4 Squared will be even more extreme.

最明显的升级的门户axles that increase the ground clearance. For reference, the last-generation G-Class 4x4 Squared offered 17 inches of ground clearance - ten more inches than the regular G-Class. Mercedes has also camouflaged the fenders, which are noticeably wider than the regular G-Class to make room for larger wheels and tires.

More camouflage is applied to the roof, possibly covering up a set of roof-mounted LED lights. These changes make the G-Class 4x4 Squared look even more rugged and aggressive. You certainly can't miss it on the highway, though it's a shame we don't get to see the upgraded SUV show off its off-roading prowess.

Under the hood, the new G-Class 4x4 Squared will be powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. In the previous model, this unit produced 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque in the old model. With AMG reportedly developing the next-generation G-Class 4x4 Squared, the V8 could get a power boost. Hopefully, we won't have to wait too long to find out as the new Mercedes G-Class 4x4 Squared is expected to debut later this year.