Last year, the mighty Mercedes G-Class celebrated a major production milestone after the 400,000th example rolled off the production line. Since launching in 1979, the G Wagon has been an enduring off-road icon, and while we aren't expecting an all-new version to arrive any time soon considering the current model was the first major redesign in 40 years, we can look forward to a new variant possibly debuting this year.

Last year, Mercedes was spied testing a more extreme-looking G-Class, suggesting the Mercedes G-Class 4x4 Squared is being revived for a new generation. This time, two prototypes of the new G-Class 4x4 Squared have been spied tackling the snow.

Mercedes has partially covered the exterior in camoflague, but it's difficult to hide those wider fenders housing larger wheels.

Other modifications include side steps providing easier access to the cabin and bigger brakes with drilled discs. A section in front of the roof rack is covered up, most likely hiding some LED light bars. The same section was also covered on the black prototype spied last year despite it not having a roof rack, so Mercedes may offer the LED lights with or without a roof rack installed. At the back, both prototypes feature a rear mounted spare wheel and a ladder providing access to the roof rack.

Under the hood, the new G-Class 4x4 Squared will be powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, which produced 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque in the previous model. It's not yet clear if the new off-roader will be a regular Mercedes or if it will get the AMG treatment. Our source says it could be the latter judging from the amount of noise the prototype was making.

Mercedes hasn't announced a debut date yet, but the new G-Class 4x4 Squared will hopefully break cover before the end of the year. Expect it to cost significantly more than the regular G-Class since the last generation model started at $225,000. It will probably be popular with rich soccer players who can afford it - Joe Willock is probably looking to replace his G Wagon after wrecking it last year.