For the 2013 model year Mercedes-Benz replaces the G55 AMG with a new Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG swapping the outdated power plant for something more modern. This is a move that we expected considering Mercedes commitment to still producing the retro G-Class. We’re sure it will be a success too, considering the outgoing model’s popularity with the rich, the famous and the mafia!
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG gets the AMG-fettled 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine delivering 544 hp and torque of 560 lb-ft. These are 44 hp and 44 lb-ft gains over the G55. Engineers have coupled this with AMG’s Speedshift Plus, 7-speed automatic transmission. This means 0-100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds and a 209km/h limited top speed.
Mercedes-Benz is keen to push the G63 AMG’s fuel consumption figures, now reduced by 13 percent. This is thanks, in part, to the seven-speed automatic gearbox which features three drive modes and an automatic rev-matching function for downshifting. Those modes include “Controlled Efficiency” mode with a stop/start function, “C” mode for smooth acceleration and early gear changes, a Sport (S) and Manual (M) mode.
The suspension/damper settings in the AMG sports chassis have been adjusted to ensure a more comfortable ride. The wheels and brakes are also completely new. The Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG runs on new AMG split 5-spoke alloy wheels as standard. They measure 9.5 × 20 with a titanium-grey high-sheen finish are come fitted with 275/50 R 20 tires.
The AMG high-performance brakes have perforated brake discs measuring 14.8 × 1.42 inches at the front and 13 × 0.79 inches at the rear. At the front is a six-piston fixed-caliper system taken from the ML 63 AMG the rear gets a single-piston floating-caliper system both finished in red.
The Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG gets a high-gloss black “twin-blade” radiator grille with four chrome inserts. The AMG bumper features three generously dimensioned openings as airflow inlets and new LED daytime running lamps are fitted below the bi-xenon headlamps. Fender flares, stainless-steel running boards and side protective strips with stainless-steel inserts are carried over from the outgoing model.
Inside you’ll find a new instrument panel and state-of-the-art infotainment systems, the G63 AMG gets a color TFT screen and white-light AMG sills on all doors. Surfaces get designo leather upholstery with fluted leather door panelling with optional AMG carbon, designo Champagne white lacquer or designo light brown satin poplar.
Interrestingly, the Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG made up 40% of global sales for the G-Class. The 2013 G63 AMG goes on sale in the US in August.
You gotta love this legendary car! Nice interior!