3 Minutes
Overview
The Mercedes-Benz G 550 has long been a staple for buyers who want G-Wagen presence without stepping up to the AMG models. This V8-powered variant—badged G 500 in some markets—recently turned heads after receiving a visually striking upgrade from Forgiato. The result reads like a music-video-ready G-Wagen: bright chrome, chunky five-spoke Forgiato wheels and a bold white paint job that amplifies the SUV's iconic boxy silhouette.
Design & Styling
The showcased G 550 wears a glossy white finish accented with abundant chrome details. Forgiato’s mirror-finish wheels dominate the profile: a five-spoke, almost disc-like design with a dazzling polish that complements chrome trim on the front bulbar and rear spare wheel carrier. Additional chrome three-pointed star emblems at the front and rear and the G 550 badge above the left taillight complete the look. Black touches—window privacy glass and small exterior accents—add contrast and break up the shine.
Wheels and Exterior Mods
The standout modification is clearly the aftermarket Forgiato wheels. While visually impactful, large, heavy wheels can affect unsprung weight, ride quality, and acceleration slightly—so this particular example might be marginally slower than a factory G 550. Other exterior tweaks appear limited to cosmetic chrome elements; the vehicle otherwise retains the classic G-Wagen lines that buyers value.
Interior & Cabin
Photos released alongside the vehicle focus on exterior styling, leaving the cabin largely unseen. Given the restrained nature of the exterior changes, it’s likely the interior remains largely stock. That’s not a downside: the G 550’s interior is already premium and well-appointed from the factory, with quality leather, modern infotainment, and the upright seating position drivers expect from a Mercedes-Benz luxury SUV.
Performance & Specifications
Under the hood, the G 550 sticks with a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 in the pre-facelift form, producing 416 bhp (421 PS / 310 kW) between 5,250–5,500 rpm and 450 lb-ft (610 Nm) of torque from 2,000–4,750 rpm. Power is delivered via a nine-speed automatic transmission to the permanent four-wheel-drive system. Official performance figures list 0–60 mph in around 5.6 seconds with combined fuel economy of approximately 13 mpg city / 16 mpg highway (18.1 / 14.7 L/100 km), though aftermarket wheels and tires can alter those times and economy slightly.
Facelifted Model and Powertrain Comparison
Mercedes later refreshed the G 550, replacing the V8 with a more efficient turbocharged inline-six featuring an integrated starter-generator (ISG). The updated powertrain produces 443 bhp (450 PS / 330 kW) and 413 lb-ft (600 Nm), cutting the 0–60 mph time to about 5.3 seconds while improving fuel economy to roughly 17 mpg city / 19 mpg highway (13.4 / 12 L/100 km). For buyers weighing power versus efficiency, the inline-six MHEV setup represents a modern compromise.
Market Positioning & Pricing
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G 550 is priced from $148,250 (excluding destination). For those comparing G-Wagen options, the electrified G 580 with EQ Technology starts at about $161,500, while the high-performance Mercedes-AMG G 63 commands roughly $186,100. The G 550 remains an attractive choice for buyers who want classic V8 character or a near-luxury off-roader without the AMG premium.
Who Should Consider This G-Wagen?
If bold visual presence is a priority, the Forgiato-equipped G 550 will appeal to owners who value show-stopping styling and street stance. Enthusiasts focused on pure performance or fuel efficiency should compare the V8 G 550 with the facelifted inline-six model and the AMG G 63. As always, prospective buyers should factor in how aftermarket wheels and chrome work affect ride quality, tire wear, and acceleration when making a decision.
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