Mercedes-AMG outs G63 pricing

MERCEDES-AMG has released pricing for its all-new performance-fettled G-Class, with the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 G63 to rocket into Australian showrooms in the third quarter priced from $247,700 plus on-road costs – $14,085 dearer than the old model.

The new model represents the first time the venerable G-Class has been completely overhauled since it was first built in 1979, and with it come some big changes that will help the boxy ladder-frame SUV drive more like an AMG.

Its old twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8 has been replaced with the ubiquitous 4.0-litre twin turbo bent-eight seen across a number of AMG models, which, despite the smaller capacity, has increased outputs by 10kW/90Nm to a meaty 430kW/850Nm.

Power is sent to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission, which helps the G63 get from standstill to 100km/h in just 4.5 seconds.

Handling has been improved by replacing the hardy solid front axle with an independent front suspension setup, while adaptive damping is offered for the first time, that includes Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes.

Despite losing its live front axle, the G63 is still immensely capable off-road, with a low-range transfer case, front, centre and rear locking differentials, 238mm of ground clearance (up 3mm), 700mm wading depth (up 100mm), and generous approach and departure angles.

The interior has been overhauled for a much more contemporary look, and features two 12.3-inch widescreen displays for the multimedia system and instrument cluster, 15-speaker 590W Burmester sound system, sliding glass sunroof, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, heated seats, Nappa leather upholstery, leather-and-wood dashboard, microfibre headliner and AMG-specific IWC design analogue clock.

While the new G63 retains a similar look to the outgoing model, it is distinguished by the addition of the AMG Panamericana grille, while features such as red AMG brake callipers, 21-inch hoops and side-exit sports exhaust remain.

Standard safety equipment includes nine airbags, active cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitor, brake assist, traffic sign assist, pre-collision system, active parking assist and 360-degree camera.

A $5900 Night Package will be available to buyers, which includes darkened tinted indicator lenses, black exterior door mirror housings, black obsidian bumper trim elements, black under-guard protection, black spare wheel housing and 22-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels.

As with other AMG models, an Edition 1 version will be offered at launch which includes the Night Package features, red trim on the door mirrors and 22-inch hoops, black Nappa leather seats in black and red, multi-contour adjustment for the front seats with massage function, silver shadow finish for air vents, AMG badges embedded in the front seats, AMG performance steering wheel with red stitching and 12 o’clock marker, and red-pepper carbon-fibre interior trim. The Edition 1 adds $19,500 onto the G63’s asking price.

The diesel-powered G350d version will arrive in the first quarter of 2019, while the V8 petrol G500 has been dropped from the range.