Just a few months after our first fuzzy sighting of the new Mercedes-AMG G-Class 4×4² and our man with the long lens was able to get another clear shot of the most extreme version of the hardcore German SUV so far. Beyond concealing its front and rear logos, the muscled up G-Class has nothing else to hide providing us with an early look at the new model ahead of its expected debut towards the end of this year. [Updated 10/2/2020]

The Mercedes-Benz G500 / G550 4×4² won’t remain a one-off as these fresh spy shots suggest a successor to the extremely capable off-roader is on the way.

Mercedes-AMG plans to release a new 4×4² model based on the latest-generation G-Class and these are the first clear images of the new model. The next-generation G500 / G550 4×4² doesn’t seem like a big secret anymore as our photographers were able to shoot it from a close distance this time.

It’s pretty clear we’re looking at the new G-Class 4×4² as the undisguised prototype features portal axles and massive wheels for a huge ground clearance. In addition, it looks very similar to its predecessor minus the all-new LED headlights and taillights, and the redesigned interior.

See Also: Mercedes-AMG G550 4×4² Turns The Woods Into Its Own Catwalk

These photos do not provide us with a look inside the cabin but they do show that Mercedes is testing accessories such as the massive roof rack with two integrated LED light bars at the front, a rear-mounted spare wheel and who knows what else.

Other changes compared to the regular 2020 Mercedes-Benz G-Class include the extra-wide wheel arches and side steps, as well as new front and rear bumpers – with a steel extension at the back. It remains to be seen whether the automaker will continue to badge the off-roader as the G500 4×4² in Europe and G550 4×4² in North America or switch to a Mercedes-AMG G63 4×4² designation.

There’s no official information regarding the powertrain but we all know it’s going to feature the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 unit found in most Mercedes-AMG models nowadays. The only question is the power plant’s state of tune. In the previous-generation model, the 4.0-liter V8 made 425 PS (416 HP) and 610 Nm (450 lb-ft) of torque.

That’s exactly what the current G500 / G550 makes but wouldn’t it be more appropriate for the new 4×4² range-topper to get the G63’s version of the 4.0-liter V8 that makes 585 PS (577 HP) and 849 Nm (627 lb-ft) of torque?

Photo credits: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien for CarScoops