2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 – 4.0L V8, 585 hp, 850 Nm

The all-new Mercedes-Benz G-Class that was unveiled last month is getting the expected AMG version sooner rather than later, and here it is – the new Mercedes-AMG G63.

As with any AMG car, we start under the hood. Here, the now familiar AMG 4.0 litre V8 biturbo engine replaces the previous 5.5-litre V8 biturbo. It makes 585 hp and 850 Nm of torque, available between 2,500 and 3,500 rpm. That’s good for a 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 4.5 seconds. Top speed is limited to 220 km/h, or 240 km/h with the AMG Driver’s package. Combined fuel consumption is 13.2 litres per 100 km, aided by a cylinder deactivation system.

The V8 is paired to the AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission with model-specific software. The multiple downshift function allows for spontaneous bursts of speed, and there’s a double-declutching function in Sport and Sport Plus modes. The Direct Select lever has been repositioned as a steering column stalk. Manual mode can be selected using a separate switch and there are steering shift paddles.

The standard AMG Performance 4Matic all-wheel drive features 40:60 rear-biased torque distribution, which Mercedes says ensures greater agility and improved traction during acceleration. The previous G63 had a neutral 50:50 split.

The off-road reduction gear has been developed further. The reduction ratio of the transfer case is now 2.93, considerably higher than the old car’s 2.1. This assists moving off on extreme uphill gradients, as the torque at the drive wheels is significantly increased.

The off-road reduction gear can be engaged via the Low Range switch at speeds of up to 40 km/h. The gear ratio of the transfer case is then changed from 1.00 in High Range to 2.93. It is possible to switch from Low to High at speeds of up to 70 km/h.

When the driver operates the switch for the centre differential lock, the multiplate clutch switches to a 100% locking effect. The locks at the front and rear axle are differential locks with a dog clutch and a 100% locking effect. All the locks can be engaged individually while on the move; firstly centre, then rear axle and finally the front axle diff. The diff locks are now electromechanically actuated, which make them respond faster to switches.

On the road, the new G63 is claimed to be more dynamic and comfortable. The suspension has been completely redesigned and features coil springs all-round. For the first time, the front axle has independent double wishbones, which are directly mounted to the G’s ladder frame without a subframe. A strut tower brace now connects the front strut towers, which increases torsional rigidity.

At the rear, the rigid axle is guided with four longitudinal control arms on each side and a Panhard rod for improved on-road comfort. When off-road, the rear spring compression of 82 mm and rebound of 142 mm, plus the 241 mm ground clearance, help to ensure a safe ride in extreme situations. To reduce body roll, the G63 has additional transverse stabilisers at both ends. AMG Ride Control suspension with adaptive adjustable damping is standard, along with AMG speed-sensitive variable ratio steering.

Dynamic Select has five on-road and three off-road driving modes. The on-road modes are Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual; while the off-road modes are Sand, Trail and Rock.

The G63 is easily recognisable as one thanks to the Panamericana radiator grille, which might not be to all tastes. The AMG grille with the vertical slats is matched with an AMG bumper with large side air inlets and matte iridium silver trim. The headlamps, indicators and tail lights are all LEDs. Multibeam LED headlamps are optional.

Other G63 cues include the flared wheel arches, which house larger and wider 21- or 22-inch wheels. Running boards are standard, and there are distinctive trim elements on the front and rear bumpers. The dual-flow exhaust system features side pipes below the rear doors. You’ll also find “V8 BITURBO” lettering on the front wings, red brake callipers and perforated brake discs. The AMG Night package introduces dark tint and black paint to the exterior.

Inside, the biggest G63 element is the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather. It comes with a flattened lower section and is perforated in the grip area, with galvanised shift paddles.

As is the norm for Mercedes-Benz, the G63 will also be available as an Edition 1 on market launch. There are plenty of available paint finishes including designo colours, with contrasting sports stripes in matte grey and a red stripe on the mirror caps. The AMG Night package is thrown in along with matte black 22-inch cross-spoke forged wheels with red-painted flanges.

The red highlights continue inside, and can be found on as contrasting topstitching on the dashboard support, centre console, door panels and rear seats. The front sport seats are in black/red pepper nappa leather, with a diamond pattern with red stitching. The carbon-fibre trim has red highlights, and so does the steering wheel.

The new Mercedes-AMG G63 will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month, and the market launch is in June.

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