The Mercedes-AMG G 63 replaces the old supercharged G 55 as the most powerful, quickest and most expensive version of the venerable G-Class 4x4 available in the UK.
Joining the six-cylinder diesel G 350 Bluetec in a revamped G-Class range that boasts higher levels of luxury than ever inside, the G 63 is powered by AMG’s latest twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8, whose 563bhp and 561lb ft of torque are sufficient to propel this 2.5-tonne brick from 0-62mph in a startling 5.4sec. Although these are startling figures, it is a great shame that the UK misses out on the 4.0-litre V8 and 6.0-litre V12 iterations of the AMG G-Class found elsewhere in the world, something which Mercedes-AMG don't seem keen to rectify for the 2018 edition.
The V8 is mated to an equally modern AMG Speedshift seven-speed automatic transmission with a stop-start function and a choice of three modes.
This powertrain means that while the G 63 is the quickest G-Class in its history, it is also more economical than its thirsty predecessor and emits less CO2 – although figures of 20.5mpg combined and 322g/km hardly qualify the G 63 as being eco-friendly.
While it’s instantly recognisable as the ruggedly rectilinear Geländewagen that has been around for more than three decades, the G 63 can be distinguished from lesser models by a unique radiator grille and front bumper, flared wheel arches, stainless steel running boards, a macho side-exit sports exhaust system and big alloys. It is also the subject of other mental AMG projects, most notably the Mercedes-AMG G 63 6x6.
Inside, the G 63 now features a more modern dashboard with a new instrument cluster and centre console, as well as a more generous standard equipment level than its predecessor. But despite the unashamed luxuriousness of its cabin, the G 63 remains a potential go-anywhere vehicle, featuring three differential locks and a low-range transfer box for serious off-roading.
As for equipment levels there are three choices - the standard G 63 trim, Colour Edition and Edition 463. The normal G 63 comes with all the bravado AMG like to instill on its creations, notably the 20in alloys, chrome quad side exhausts, red brake calipers and stainless steel side sills, while inside gains climate control, a leather upholstery, a Harman & Kardon sound system and Mercede's Comand infotainment system. The Colour Editions merely give buyers the choice of five rather garish colour combinations - Tomato Red, Alien Green, Galactic Beam, Solar Beam and Sunset Beam.