About
This behaves like a proper Technic flagship. You complete a rolling chassis about halfway through, with the drivetrain turning the pistons, the steering correctly synchronised between wheel and roof knob, and the diff locks as the headline feature, rear and centre toggled by accessible switches. There is no front diff lock, but the compact mechanism convincingly simulates traction off road. After the mechanics, the bodywork captures the G-Class boxiness in reddish orange, which looks better in person than in photos, using new angled connectors to break up the slab sides and bring panels closer to the real angles. In hand, the structure is sturdy, the bonnet opens to the straight-six, and the finishing kit—roof rack, cargo box, bumper guard and caged spare—delivers the expedition vibe. Trade-offs, there is no multi-speed gearbox, there is no front locker, and the bonnet hinge assembly benefits from gentle handling. Even so, the blend of functions and sculpting is strong and the build stays interesting to the end.
Box design
Adult Technic presentation, black background with the G 500 in an off-road scene on the front and the functions and technical views on the back. The box is large yet shelf friendly, about 55.5 × 37.8 × 13.2 cm, roughly 3.9 kg, sized to protect the long panels and keep the sticker sheet flat during transit.
Instruction manual
You get two printed manuals and numbered paper bags. The pacing is clear, modules are well segmented, and there are helpful callouts when you close body panels or brace the chassis. Includes the story of the G-Class from Mercedes.
Stickers
There is a dedicated sticker sheet for plates, grille marks and small exterior details. Most placements are on flat tiles or panels, so alignment with tweezers is straightforward. The model still reads well without stickers if you prefer a cleaner look, though applying them does lift the realism.
So…
The 42177 nails what a high-end Technic 4x4 should deliver, credible mechanical features, serious shelf presence, and a build that flows. Yes, it lacks a multi-gear transmission and a front locker, but the sum of the engineering, new elements and expedition aesthetics make it an easy yes for 4x4 fans and large-scale Technic collectors, even better if you catch it on sale. For me was a easy catch since I love 4x4 and was a gigantic discount!
