UPDATE: Lightly camouflaged Mercedes-Benz G-Class could be a 4x4 Squared or a Brabus
UPDATE: It has come to our attention that this could be a Brabus-modified G-Class using some of the parts from the 800 Adventure XLP, rather than a new 4x4² from Mercedes directly. We have updated the text to reflect this possibility.
The beefiest, brawniest AMG model is making a comeback. Either that or Brabus is applying some of its work on the 800 Adventure XLP to a normal G-Class. Spy shots show a practically undisguised current generation G-Class with a similar height and stance to the Mercedes-AMG G-Class 4x4².
Unlike the old 4x4², this model clearly features independent front suspension. We can see chunky lower control arms connected to the front wheels and subframe. Despite the independent front suspension, this probably still uses portal axle ends like the Hummer H1. In fact, Brabus already has a set of portal axle halfshafts that are used on the 800 Adventure XLP, which is part of the reason some think this might be a Brabus rather than a Mercedes.
Design-wise, this G-Class follows the recipe of the last 4x4²: It's basically just your average G-wagen, except it sits way higher up on way bigger tires. The fender flares have grown proportionally to those giant tires, too. On the roof, there's now a full-length roof rack of some sort, and it fits into the combination light bar and wind deflector that was a signature of the last SUV. Connected to the rack is a ladder on the rear tailgate to aid access. One other change from the previous model: this 4x4² actually has a full-size spare mounted to the tailgate. The roof rack and spare tire carrier look very similar to previous Brabus offerings, but aren't quite a match. We also haven't seen a current Brabus G-Wagen with such wide and plain fender flares, so it's hard to definitively call it one way or the other for Brabus or Mercedes.
Considering that this prototype is undisguised save for the badge coverings, we wouldn't be surprised if this uber G-Class is revealed by the end of the year, or possibly early next year. It will almost certainly feature a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 like most other G-Class models, though time will tell if it gets the regular 416-horsepower version of the G 63's 577-horsepower iteration. If it's a Brabus, it could have even more power, as much as 789 horses and 737 pound-feet of torque.
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