Automakers have used Sweden’s frozen lakes to test their prototypes for decades, and in recent years many brands from BMW to Lamborghini have let fans experience some of the fun in their current production cars. AMG is no different, having run those kinds of events since 2007, but one difference it’s making to next year’s winter driving program is the addition of an overland adventure experience in the G-Class SUV.
The four-day G-Class Winter Expedition takes AMG owners on a tour between the northern cities of Arvidsjaur and Kirunam, giving them a chance to get off the usual tourist track and test the G-Class’s off-road ability with some dynamic driving exercises. There’s also a nighttime snowmobile tour and you get to stay in the famous ICE Hotel for €9,390 ($10,300), but from the sounds of Merc’s info, this course is as much about the culinary experience as the one you get behind the wheel.
So if it’s hardcore driving thrills you’re after, you’re probably still better off with the traditional AMG driver training program that takes place on the frozen water of Lake Galtisjaure near Arjeplog. The ice is an incredible 60 mm (2.4 inches) thick and multiple courses, including one modeled on Germany’s Nurburgring Nordschleife, let you hone your skills and experience how various AMG cars feel beyond the limit of grip.
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Courses last between three and five days and are open to all drivers, regardless of skill level and ability. And if you’re good enough to handle the longer, more advanced courses you’ll get your own AMG training team who’ll use full data and video analysis to help you improve your technique.
The exact car you’ll be driving on the ice depends on which course you’ve opted for, but the garage includes everything from the little A45 S and new C63 S right up to the SL63 and G63. Prices start at €2,090 ($2,300) for the basic three-day introductory course, but you’ll definitely need to be AMG-wealthy to afford the €12,490 ($13,700) being asked for the full Pro Plus experience.
