“It's a fun and exclusive vehicle but the only drawback is not having the comfort features such as auto window with one touch instead of holding down until window is raised. Also it would be nice to have better cup holders. It's not as comfortable in the seating as my Range Rover sport luxury but makes up for it with the look, originality and driving experience. It's really a fun vehicle to drive and own.”
2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The big change for 2017 is the arrival of the G 550 4x4 Squared, a specialist version built for much more extreme off-road use. This is a trim-focused update rather than a redesign, and the regular G 550 carries over without a major overhaul.
About the 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
W463 generation, late-cycle year; 2017 is the second-to-last model year before the all-new 2019 redesign.
Mercedes-Benz positions the G-Class as a hand-built luxury SUV with real truck-style off-road hardware, not just rugged looks. Its identity centers on unmistakable upright styling, a strong biturbo V8 in the G 550 models, low-range four-wheel drive, and locking differentials, paired with a rich cabin and modern infotainment. Compared with most luxury SUVs, the G-Class puts more emphasis on heritage and genuine off-road capability while still serving as a premium everyday vehicle.
The regular G 550 remains the traditional luxury off-roader, with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, low-range gearing, three locking differentials, leather seating, navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The G 550 4x4 Squared adds a much taller, wider stance and specialized off-road hardware while keeping the same V8 and luxury-focused cabin.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG leave the lineup for 2017. The new G 550 4x4 Squared uses the regular G 550's 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 and seven-speed automatic, so its added capability comes from its off-road hardware rather than extra engine power.
Styling
The new G 550 4x4 Squared has a much wider body and a dramatically taller stance than the regular G 550.
Structural
The G 550 4x4 Squared joins the US lineup with portal axles, 17.2 inches of ground clearance, and a dual-spring-and-strut suspension with adjustable damping for extreme terrain.
2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd 7G-Tronic+ | Auto, 7-Spd 7G-Tronic+ |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 11 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 14 mpg | 11 mpg |
| Horsepower | 416 hp | 416 hp |
| Torque | 450 lb-ft | 450 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7000 lb | 7000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 38.6 cu-ft | 34.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 41.9 in | 41.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| 4-Wheel Disc Brakes | ||
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Anti-Lock Brakes | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Stability Control | ||
| Traction Control | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||
| HID Headlights | ||
| Heated Mirrors | ||
| Heated Windshield | ||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Power Mirrors | ||
| Privacy Glass | ||
| Side Steps | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||
| SD Card Slot | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||
| Memory Front Seats | ||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||
| Power Locks | ||
| Power Steering | ||
| Power Windows | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class?
The biggest change is the addition of the G 550 4x4 Squared to the US lineup. It is a factory-built extreme off-road version with portal axles, 17.2 inches of ground clearance, a wider body, and specialized suspension.
How is the 2017 G 550 4x4 Squared different from the regular G 550?
The G 550 4x4 Squared is much taller, wider, and more off-road-focused than the regular G 550. Its portal axles and specialized suspension provide 17.2 inches of ground clearance, while both versions use a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 and seven-speed automatic.
Did the regular 2017 Mercedes-Benz G 550 receive major changes?
No, the regular 2017 G 550 did not receive a major equipment overhaul. It largely carries over after the broader updates made for 2016.
Were the G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG carried into the 2017 G-Class lineup?
No, the G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG were dropped from the lineup for 2017. The lineup change centers on the addition of the off-road-focused G 550 4x4 Squared.
Is the 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class a full redesign?
No, the 2017 G-Class is not a full redesign. It is a late-cycle W463 model, with the all-new generation arriving for 2019.
2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
4.4
2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
(38 reviews)
“Incredibly responsive with a throaty powerful sound; yet undeniably comfortable that also exudes security regardless of being the passenger or driver.”
“It is an absolute blast to drive this car! This is definitely not a vehicle for the timid or shy...This is a car that will turn heads everywhere you go!”