The Updated Mercedes-AMG G63 Is Here And Keeps The V8

On a day when Land Rover has announced a new BMW V8-powered range-topper for the Defender, Mercedes-AMG has issued a reminder that it won’t have that particular market niche all to itself.

Arriving as part of a model-wide refresh for the G-Class, the latest version of the Mercedes-AMG G63 brings with it new tech, and some good news: the V8 is sticking around. Augmented by a new 48v mild hybrid system, the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged unit now produces 577bhp and 627lb ft of torque.

Using the same nine-speed automatic as before, it propels the G63 from a standstill to 62mph in 4.4 seconds, and on to a maximum speed of 137mph. Spec the AMG Performance Package, and these figures drop to 4.3 seconds and rise to 149mph – really not numbers to be sniffed at in something with the aerodynamic properties of the Trellick Tower.

The G63 has also gained AMG Active Ride Control suspension, available as a standalone option or as part of the AMG Performance Package or Offroad Package Pro. Much like the system in the upcoming Defender OCTA, it uses hydraulic connections between the four suspension struts to both actively cancel out body pitch and roll on the road and allow for greater wheel articulation off it.

We’re not sure how many people actually properly off-road their G63s, but Mercedes has nevertheless gone to the effort of fitting it with three off-road specific drive modes in addition to the five basic modes: Sand, Trail and Rock, each of which adjusts parameters including engine and gearbox response, steering and suspension.

Visually, the G63 gets an AMG-specific steering wheel and some extra exterior bling, as well as an optional carbon fibre exterior package. Six wheel designs are available, ranging from 20- to 22 inches. Probably best not to head out into the wilds with the 22s fitted.

The G63 sits at the top of a revised G-Class range. Below it, the old V8-powered G550 has been superseded by the G500, which uses a 3.0-litre, 443bhp straight-six with both a conventional turbo and an electric compressor. The sole diesel model is now the G450d, making 362bhp and 553lb ft from its 3.0-litre straight-six. While not yet unveiled in production form, an all-electric, tank turn-capable EQG isn’t far off.

Further off-road kit comes in the form of a low-range transfer case and front, centre and rear locking differentials.

UK pricing and availability are yet to be confirmed, but unlike its V8-powered predecessor, the G500 will come to the UK, giving us an entry-level petrol for the first time this generation in addition to the AMG and the diesel.