The Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4² is one of the most extreme interpretations of the W463-generation G-Class, positioned somewhere between the conventional G-Wagen and the extraordinary G 63 AMG 6×6. The concept made its public debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, with production following later that year and continuing until 2017.

At its heart is a 4.0-litre biturbo V8, producing approximately 422 PS and 610 Nm of torque in standard G500 4×4² specification. Power is delivered through a seven-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive.

What truly separates the 4×4² from a standard G-Class is its use of portal axles. By positioning the axle centres above the wheel hubs, the system provides exceptional ground clearance of around 45 centimetres, dramatically improving the vehicle’s ability to tackle difficult terrain.

The much wider track, enormous wheels and tyres, increased approach and departure angles and impressive wading capability give the G500 4×4² genuinely serious off-road credentials. Yet underneath the extreme engineering it retains the long-wheelbase G-Class body and much of the refinement expected from a luxury Mercedes-Benz.

Visually, the 4×4² is impossible to mistake for a conventional G-Wagen. Dramatically flared wheelarches, huge wheels, elevated ride height and AMG-inspired styling elements give it extraordinary road presence while remaining unmistakably a G-Class.

This particular example has been further enhanced by Brabus, with engine software increasing output to 500 PS and 710 Nm, alongside a Brabus sports exhaust and additional exterior and interior modifications.

Brabus has long specialised in extracting substantially more performance and visual presence from Mercedes-Benz models. On the G500 4×4², those modifications build on an already extreme factory platform rather than fundamentally changing its character.

Inside, the combination of extensive leather trim, carbon-fibre detailing and luxury equipment creates a striking contrast with the vehicle’s uncompromising off-road hardware. It is capable of crossing terrain that would challenge dedicated off-road vehicles while surrounding its occupants with the comfort and equipment of a high-end luxury SUV.

Mercedes-Benz has never publicly confirmed an exact production figure for the G500 4×4², but production was limited and the model remains considerably rarer than conventional G-Class variants.

The G500 4×4² represents an unusual moment in Mercedes-Benz history: a road-legal production car combining portal axles, extreme ground clearance, a biturbo V8 and luxury-car refinement. In Brabus specification, that already extraordinary formula becomes even more distinctive.