Citing the sales success of G 500 in the United States and the absorption of AMG into DaimlerChrysler AG, Mercedes-Benz began to expand the AMG versions to several models, including G-Class. To coincide with the official launch of G-Class in the United States, Mercedes-Benz introduced G 55 AMG along with G 500 in 2001 for 2002 model year. The G 55 AMG visually did not differ from G 500 other than side exhaust pipes, wider tyres, AMG five-spoke wheels, chrome tip at bottom of front bumper, and AMG lettering in the rear.