Haute Auto of the Week: Mercedes-Benz G550

In honor of summertime trips through the countryside, today we’re taking a look at Mercedes-Benz’s newest G-Class, the automaker’s iconic luxury off-road vehicle. Since it was originally conceived in 1979 as a vehicle for tough terrain, the G-Class has undergone an uber-luxe evolution.

See more on this car at Haute Auto.

The newest G550 got a new 5.5-litre V8 gasoline engine thats boasts a 388 hp output and offers 391 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to the familiar 7-speed automatic transmission.

From LED daytime running lamps to grille, 20-inch wheels and the front-passenger side grab handle, the Mercedes-Benz G550 retains the flavor of its off-road origin, but the gorgeous trim on the interior gives it away as a luxury vehicle. For example, the large color screen in the center console that acts as a COMAND infotainment system, doing everything from navigation to internet and playing DVDs.

For more luxury auto news go to Haute Auto.

Photos courtesy Mercedes-Benz.