Mercedes-Benz isn’t afraid to get wild. The G 500 4×4² proved that. So did the E-Class All-Terrain 4×4² concept—a lifted wagon with portal axles, flared fenders, and serious off-road chops. But the big question remains: Will Mercedes ever produce it? Let’s break it down. Will the insane E-Class All-Terrain 4×4² be produced?
What Is The E-Class All-Terrain 4×4²?
The E-Class All-Terrain 4×4² started as a one-off build in 2017. It was based on the standard E-Class Estate, but engineers gave it a wild makeover. They raised the ride height to 420 mm, added portal axles (borrowed from the G-Class 4×4²), flared the bodywork, and fitted chunky off-road tires. It wasn’t just for show. It could drive through knee-deep mud, climb rocky trails, and cruise on the autobahn—all without breaking a sweat.
Why Was It Built?
Mercedes didn’t design it to sell. It was an internal passion project, led by development engineer Jürgen Eberle. He wanted to see what an extreme E-Class wagon could do with real off-road hardware.
The result? A car that looked outrageous but drove like a dream. It blended luxury, comfort, and off-road ability in a way no one expected from an E-Class.
Could Mercedes Actually Produce It?
Here’s the honest answer: it’s unlikely, at least in its original form. The 4×4² was expensive to build. Those portal axles alone are complex and costly. Producing them at scale for a niche model would make the price tag skyrocket—likely north of $200,000.
Plus, Mercedes is now focused on electrification. The company is pushing hard on the EQ line and mild hybrid systems. That means fewer internal-combustion passion projects and more efficiency-focused vehicles.
What Would It Take To Make It Real?
There’s still hope—though slim. To see the E-Class All-Terrain 4×4² in production, Mercedes would need a few things:
- Strong consumer demand (from wealthy enthusiasts)
- A limited edition strategy (like the AMG One or G 500 4×4²)
- Engineering resources to adapt modern safety and emissions tech
It could happen as a halo car, a showcase of what Mercedes can do when it dreams big. But it would never be a mass-market product.
The Concept Behind The E-Class All-Terrain 4×4²
The E-Class All-Terrain 4×4² wasn’t just a concept—it was an engineering statement. Built as a one-off by Mercedes-Benz engineer Jürgen Eberle in 2017, the idea was simple: take a luxury estate and give it the bones of a true off-roader.
Using portal axles borrowed from the G 500 4×4² and giving the wagon extreme ground clearance, Mercedes created something no one expected—a family car that could crawl through mud and scale rocky trails.
Technical Specifications
Based on the E 400 d All-Terrain, the concept boasted a V6 diesel engine delivering around 340 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque. It retained the 4MATIC AWD system and added portal axles, which dramatically lifted the chassis by nearly 420 mm. Custom AIRMATIC air suspension, extended wheel arches, and 20-inch off-road tires completed the transformation.
Elevated Ground Clearance
The most noticeable feature was its insane ride height. With 420 mm of ground clearance, it sat higher than many full-size SUVs. That clearance gave it approach and departure angles similar to the G-Class, making it capable of tackling serious off-road challenges.
Enhanced Suspension System
Mercedes equipped the 4×4² with an upgraded AIRMATIC air suspension system. It was fine-tuned for off-road travel, allowing the car to maintain comfort on-road while adapting to uneven terrain. Combined with long-travel dampers and portal axle geometry, it made for a smooth and controlled ride—even when off the beaten path.
Engine Power And Performance
Under the hood, the concept packed the OM656 inline-six diesel, used in other E-Class models. It wasn’t just powerful—it was efficient and refined. With a top speed over 210 km/h and 0-100 km/h in under 6 seconds, the car maintained its luxury DNA even in extreme form.
Unique Design Features
This wasn’t just a lifted wagon. Mercedes went all-in with a wide-body kit, carbon fiber wheel arch extensions, underbody protection, and off-road LED lighting. Inside, the car retained its luxury finishes—leather seats, high-quality materials, and the full infotainment system found in standard E-Class variants.
Off-Road Capability
Despite its luxury looks, the E-Class 4×4² had serious off-road credentials. With portal axles, advanced traction control, and high torque, it handled gravel, snow, mud, and even shallow water crossings. Unlike typical wagons, it wasn’t scared of dirt.
Terrain Adaptability
Thanks to its adaptable air suspension and intelligent 4MATIC system, the 4×4² could automatically adjust to road conditions. It offered selectable driving modes for snow, sand, or steep inclines. Whether on a rocky trail or mountain pass, the car responded with precision.
Comparison With Traditional Off-Roaders
Against traditional off-roaders like the Land Rover Defender or Toyota Land Cruiser, the E-Class 4×4² stood tall—literally. It may not have had low-range gearing, but the portal axles and suspension gave it serious off-road legs. Plus, it outclassed them in on-road comfort and interior luxury.
Potential Market Demand
So, would anyone actually buy this beast? Absolutely. Luxury adventure seekers, enthusiasts, and collectors would line up for something this rare. In an era of cookie-cutter SUVs, a high-riding E-Class wagon would turn heads and fill a unique niche.
Target Audience
Think of someone who loves the idea of a Subaru Outback, but wants Mercedes quality, diesel torque, and a one-of-a-kind experience. It appeals to overland travelers, rural luxury buyers, and those who want exclusivity with real-world function.
Balancing Exclusivity And Practicality
Mercedes could balance it all by releasing a limited-run production model. That strategy worked with the G 500 4×4² and AMG GT Black Series. The brand could justify the high cost by marketing it as a collector’s item or special edition under the AMG E or Exclusive Premium label.
Predicted Popularity And Sales
While it wouldn’t sell in huge numbers, it doesn’t need to. Mercedes could easily move 300 to 500 units globally, especially in markets like Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Think of it as a modern-day cult classic in the making.
Mercedes-Benz’s Strategic Production Decisions
Mercedes is focusing hard on electrification and sustainability. The EQ lineup is expanding, and mild hybrid tech is now standard in many models. Producing a diesel-powered off-road wagon may feel off-brand in this new strategy. However, halo models often break those rules—just look at the AMG One.
Influence Of Consumer Interest
Mercedes listens to its fans. Social media buzz, car reviews, and forums still rave about the 4×4² concept. If the pressure grows loud enough, Mercedes may give in—especially if it aligns with a broader marketing push or brand anniversary.
Technological Advancements And Feasibility
Tech-wise, Mercedes already has all the parts. Portal axles exist. Air suspension systems are in-house. The E-Class platform can be modified. The challenge lies in homologation, emissions, and production logistics—not capability.
Competitive Analysis
There’s not much competition. Closest rivals include the Audi A6 Allroad, Volvo V90 Cross Country, and Subaru Outback Wilderness. But none come close in off-road tech. Only the G-Class and Land Rover Defender play in the same field, and even they can’t match the uniqueness of a lifted wagon.
Comparison With Other Luxury Off-Road Vehicles
Compared to the GLE SUV, Audi S3 Allroad, and Range Rover Sport, the 4×4² offers better visibility, a lower center of gravity, and unmatched cool factor. It’s the kind of car that makes you the most interesting person at any car meet—or camping site.
How Does It Compare To The G-Class Or Suvs?
Compared to the G 500 4×4², the E-Class All-Terrain 4×4² was lower, sleeker, and lighter. That gave it better handling and improved on-road dynamics, while still being off-road capable. Against big SUVs like the GLE or GLS, it stood out for being unexpected. It offered ground clearance without bulk. It gave Mercedes fans an alternative to the SUV craze.
Advantages And Disadvantages In The Market
Advantages:
- Unmatched uniqueness
- True off-road ability with Mercedes comfort
- High desirability among collectors
Disadvantages:
- High price tag
- Limited practicality for city driving
- Possible conflicts with emissions regulations
So, will it happen? It’s possible, but unlikely in its diesel form. A hybrid or even electric version may be more viable. Mercedes could even use this project to launch an EQ All-Terrain sub-brand in the future.
Factors Supporting Production Feasibility
- Proven tech and platform
- Fan and media excitement
- Strong market for niche luxury vehicles
- Halo model potential for brand marketing
Obstacles to Production
- High production cost
- Emissions and regulatory challenges
- Mercedes’ shift to electrification
- Limited volume makes ROI a concern
Why Enthusiasts Still Want It
The idea of a luxury wagon with real off-road ability is rare. Most wagons today are soft-roaders at best. They have slightly lifted suspensions, maybe AWD, but nothing like portal axles or locking differentials.
The E-Class 4×4² proves that you can build a car that does everything—hauls gear, carries kids, climbs mountains, and still feels like a Benz on the road. It’s the unicorn many enthusiasts wish they could actually buy.
What Are The Chances In The Future?
Never say never. Mercedes has revived crazy ideas before. Look at the AMG GT Black Series or the EQG (an all-electric G-Wagon). If the off-road wagon trend catches on—or if the brand wants to remind people of its engineering edge—it could bring back the concept in some form. It might even arrive as an electric off-road wagon under the EQ banner. That would align with the brand’s emissions goals and capture attention.
Bottom Line
Will the E-Class All-Terrain 4×4² be produced? Probably not as a regular model—but maybe as a limited-run tribute or concept evolution. Still, it reminds us of what Mercedes can do when it builds from the heart—not just the spreadsheet.
It captured imagination, pushed limits, and gave wagon lovers something wild to dream about. In a world of lookalike SUVs, the E-Class 4×4² was a breath of fresh air—mud-splattered, high-riding, and totally unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What Is The E-Class All-Terrain 4×4²?
It’s a one-off Mercedes concept that combines the E-Class wagon with off-road upgrades like portal axles, lifted suspension, and rugged bodywork.
2.Is The E-Class 4×4² In Production?
No, it’s not in production. It was built as an internal engineering project to test extreme off-road capability in a luxury estate format.
3.Could Mercedes Produce The E-Class 4×4² In The Future?
It’s unlikely as a full production model due to cost and emissions regulations, but a limited edition or electrified version is possible.
4.What Makes The 4×4² Different From The Standard E-Class?
It has extreme ground clearance, portal axles, off-road tires, and enhanced suspension—making it far more capable than a standard E-Class or All-Terrain.
5.How Does It Compare To Suvs Like The G-Class?
It offers similar off-road tech in a wagon body, with better handling and lower weight. It’s more unique, though less rugged than a G-Class.