Mercedes-AMG has raised the already potent performance potential of the G 63 to new heights with the introduction of a heavily re-engineered 2018 model that is capable of accelerating to 100kph in just 4.5sec and reaching a top speed of 240kph.
Set to make its public debut at next month's Geneva motor show, the G 63 aims to build on the largely unique qualities of its boxy predecessor with the adoption of a contemporary aluminium body shell and widened ladder frame chassis. They provide the new model with an added 210mm of width and what Mercedes-AMG describes as greater comfort and stability.
Further developments for the new G-class include a new V8 engine and a nine-speed automatic gearbox. They are combined with a newly conceived AMG Performance 4Matic four-wheel-drive system. Together they are claimed to provide the G 63 with straight-line performance to out-accelerate the Range Rover Sport SVR – although not beating its top speed.
Power for the new 2018-model year G 63 comes from the 4.0-litre, V8, petrol engine used across the Mercedes-Benz performance car division’s range. The unit replaces the old twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 used by the previous G 63. Power has risen by 14hp to 585hp at 6,000rpm, while torque extends by 90Nm to a stout 649Nm between 2,500 and 3,500rpm.
Despite a kerb weight of 2,485kg, Mercedes-AMG claims the new G63 accelerates to 100kph some 0.9sec inside the time quoted for its predecessor at just 4.5sec. Its nominal top speed has also risen by about 10kph to a limited 220kph. However, buyers can also specify a so-called driver’s package that brings upgraded wheels and tyres and a limited 240kph top speed.
By comparison, the 550hp supercharged 4.0-litre V8 powered Range Rover Sport SVR hits 100kph from standstill in a claimed 4.7sec and reaches a top speed of 261kph.
The new range-topper is underpinned by a heavily reworked suspension that departs radically from that used by its predecessor. The car has a ground clearance of 241mm.
Standard equipment includes an AMG Ride Control set-up featuring adaptive damping and three different damping modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus. As with the G 500, the standard LED headlamps can be upgraded with optional Multi-beam units with 84 individual LED modules and Mercedes' Adaptive High-Beam Assist function.
The G 63 has a number of typical AMG design cues, including a unique grille with 12 vertical elements and a deeper front bumper featuring a matte-silver kick-plate. There are standard-fit 21-inch wheels and, in a continuation of the set-up used by its predecessor, side-mounted exhaust pipes that exit beneath the rear door. Among the exterior options is an AMG Night package with dark tinted headlamps, tail lamps, indicator lenses, rear window and rear side windows.
Boasting a similar 20mm increase in width as compared to the G500, the interior of the new G 63 offers an added 150mm of rear legroom over that of its predecessor. Housed within a newly designed dashboard is Mercedes-Benz’s Widescreen Cockpit. It comes with standard analogue instruments but can be ordered with digital instruments in combination with a 12.3-inch infotainment display. The new AMG model also receives redesigned front seats and a new rear bench that can be folded down to extend boot capacity.
Also see:
2018 Mercedes-AMG G 63 image gallery
Mercedes-AMG GT four-door test shots released
2017 Mercedes-AMG C 43 vs Audi S5 Sportback comparison