Back in mid-January, Mercedes-Benz revealed its new-generation G-Class at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. And now the performance-crazy folks from Affalterbach have taken the wraps of the new Mercedes-AMG G63.
The latest beefed-up version of the Geländewagen drops the 5,5-litre V8 of the previous-generation model for a twin-turbo 4,0-litre V8 worth a whopping 430 kW and 850 N.m. The result is a sprint from zero to 100 km/h in a claimed 4,5 seconds, with a top speed of 220 km/h (or 240 km/h with the optional AMG Driver’s package selected).
The dual-flow exhaust system features side pipes (in high-gloss chrome) exiting below the rear doors. An exhaust flap can be adjusted in two stages using the switch in the centre console (or depending on the selected driving mode) to make the exhaust note sportier or more discreet.
Mercedes-AMG says it has equipped the G63’s V8 with a cylinder deactivation system, that in the partial-load range, effectively switches off cylinders two, three, five and eight. This, the brand claims, helps to allow a combined fuel consumption figure of 13,2 L/100 km.
The so-called AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission is used in the new G63, complete with model-specific software for “very short shift times”. The all-wheel-drive system, meanwhile, features rear-biased torque distribution with a front to rear split of 40 to 60 (in the previous-generation G63, the distribution was a neutral 50:50).
Mercedes-AMG furthermore says that the off-road reduction gear has been “developed further for operations on difficult terrain”. The reduction ratio of the transfer case is now 2,93, up on the 2,1 of the old model.
The new G63 features coil springs all-round and, for the first time, the front axle has an independent, double wishbone suspension (a rigid axle with a five-link suspension is used at the rear). Adaptive adjustable damping is standard equipment.
In terms of styling, the G63 features an AMG-specific grille and the front bumper with large side air inlets and trim in matte iridium silver. Other cues include flared front and rear wheelarches, standard running boards and metallic paintwork as standard. Red brake calipers, perforated discs and 22-inch wheels will also be available.
The new Mercedes-AMG G63 will make its world premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show in March.
