2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was the loss of the G 55 AMG, leaving the G 550 as the sole U.S. trim. The G 550 name replaced G 550 4MATIC, but the vehicle otherwise carried over without major changes.
About the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
W463 first generation (1990-2018), very late pre-update year just before the broader 2013 cabin, lighting, and safety revisions.
Mercedes-Benz positions the G-Class as a hand-built cross-country luxury SUV with real off-road hardware, not a soft road-biased crossover. Its appeal is the mix of authentic locking-differential trail ability, upright boxy styling, and a richly trimmed cabin with leather, navigation, and comfort features. For most buyers, the G-Class is about unmistakable presence and true go-anywhere engineering wrapped in old-school craftsmanship.
The 2012 G 550 pairs traditional off-road hardware with a luxury-focused cabin. Its 382-hp V8, permanent four-wheel drive, two-speed transfer case, and three locking differentials provide the capability, while leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, navigation, a rearview camera, and harman/kardon surround sound cover comfort and convenience.
What changed, by category
2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd Touch Shift |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 12 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 15 mpg |
| Horsepower | 382 hp |
| Torque | 391 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 79.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 41.9 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Alarm System | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| Power Moonroof | |
| Bluetooth | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Heated Steering Wheel | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Ventilated Front Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class?
The main change was the removal of the G 55 AMG 4MATIC from the U.S. lineup. The remaining G 550 4MATIC continued under the shorter G 550 name, with no major redesign or equipment update.
Was the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class redesigned?
No, the 2012 G-Class was not redesigned. It retained its body-on-frame construction, rigid-axle suspension, core off-road hardware, cabin technology, and standard safety equipment.
Is the 2012 G 550 different from the 2011 G 550 4MATIC?
There was no meaningful mechanical change between them. For 2012, the G 550 4MATIC name was shortened to G 550, while its 382-hp 5.5-liter V8, seven-speed automatic, and permanent four-wheel drive carried over.
How many G-Class trims were offered for 2012?
The 2012 U.S. lineup consisted of one trim, the G 550. The previous G 55 AMG 4MATIC was no longer offered.
Did the 2012 G-Class receive new safety or cabin technology?
No, the 2012 G-Class received no meaningful lineup-wide safety or technology upgrades. Features such as navigation, Bluetooth voice control, a rearview camera, and parking sensors carried over in the G 550.