When Mercedes built the G500 4×4 squared, a lifted, hardcore off-road version of the G-Class, it made a lot of sense. Why not make your most capable off-roader even better? Well, now the brand has gone and done something totally nonsensical, and we love it.
Meet the E-Class 4×42, the brain child of Jürgen Eberle, a Mercedes engineer who contributed to the development of the new E-Class and E-Class All-Terrain. This off-road wagon is fitted with the same portal axles found on the G500 4×42, lifting it up to clear the ground by a full 15.7 inches.
That’s just a little more than the 6.2-inches of clearance found on the standard E-Class All Terrain. Just a little. The track has also been widened by a massive 7.8 inches, accentuated by those carbon fiber fender flares.
READ MORE: Mercedes Unveils G550 4X4² SUV Designed to Tackle any Terrain
The project started as a personal one, but when Eberle decided it was too big for him to finish on his own, he approached Mercedes brass and got the green light and budget for the project. According to Auto Express, the E-Class 4×4 squared has been such a hit around the Benz office that the brand might produce a small number of them. Public reaction is also being gauged, so if you like what you see, make sure to leave a comment! You never know who’s reading.
Now, this E-Class still isn’t quite as capable as the G-Class as it doesn’t get a proper transfer case or any locking differentials, but with that ground clearance alone, this wagon is sure to be able to get into, and out of, some tricky situations.
[Source: Auto Express]