2018 Mercedes-AMG G63 revealed

Mercedes-AMG has unveiled its off-road-focused G63, which comes packing a variety of changes and is aimed at those with deep pockets.

The venerable twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8 (400kW/760Nm) has been replaced with AMG’s twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, and the engine – with 1.5-litres less displacement – generates 30kW and 90Nm more than the outgoing unit (430kW/850Nm). It’s paired with the short-shifting, nine-speed AMG SpeedShift transmission.

For this iteration the standard-spec AMG Performance 4MATIC AWD now has a rear-biased torque distribution, with a front/rear split of 40/60 – as opposed to the 50/50 split of the former model.

There’s also more torque at the driven wheels for enthusiasts wishing to point their Merc at steeper climbs, as the reduction ratio of the transfer case is now 2.93 (formerly 2.1). Keen rock-hunters will also appreciate three locking differentials, three off-road drive modes (Sand, Trail and Rock), double wishbone independent front suspension, adaptive adjustable damping, ladder-frame chassis made of high-strength steel, lower kerb weight, and improved fording and ground clearance.

Taller customers benefit from increased interior space, with more leg, shoulder and elbow room in both the front and rear, while a wider windscreen cockpit will help to navigate past pesky rocks and ruts.

“The new AMG G63 brings driving performance to the segment of unadulterated off-road vehicles in unexpected form. It was important for us to tie in with the original character on account of the cult status the G63 enjoys with our customers and fans,” Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, said.

“The vehicle has nevertheless reached a completely new dimension in terms of technology with the 4.0-litre V8 bi-turbo engine as well as in combination with the off-road characteristics, the agility and the vehicle dynamics achieved.

“This applies to the entire G-Class model series. Mercedes-AMG is responsible for their suspension and chassis development as well as V8 competence.”

The G63 will premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on March 6, 2018, with the first examples arriving in the third quarter of this year.

Pricing and local specs will be revealed closer to its local launch.