0-62 mph is achieved a full second faster than its predecessor.
It wasn't long ago when Mercedes unveiled the all-new G-Class at the Detroit Auto Show, marking the first time the aging off-roader had been redesigned since its inception way back in 1979. Billed as the most capable Mercedes off-roader yet, it packs a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 generating 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft orf torque. If this performance isn't potent enough for you, it was only a matter of time before the new G-Class would get the AMG treatment, just like the outgoing model.
AMG was heavily involved in the development of the standard G-Class, but we've been eagerly anticipating the hot new AMG G63. Company executives have hinted that we'll be seeing the high-performance G-Class sooner rather than later, but the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 has been revealed sooner than we expected. Let's jump straight to the specs of this off-road monster. 0-62 mph in the new AMG G63 takes just 4.5 seconds – that's nearly a second faster than the outgoing model. Top speed is limited to 137 mph, or 149 mph with the optional driver's package. As before, the high performance off-roader is powered by AMG's 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8.
The V8 unit has been tuned to deliver 577 horsepower and a monumental 626 lb-ft of torque in the new 2019 model. With only an extra 14 ponies lurking under the hood, it's a modest upgrade compared to its predecessor, but the AMG G63 makes up for it with a significant weight loss shedding 375 pounds. Handling all that power is an AMG Speedshift TCT nice-speed automatic with a full-manual mode available. AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive features rear-biased torque distribution with a front/rear split of 40 to 60 percent instead of the 50:50 distribution in the last model, providing better agility on the road and improved traction during acceleration.
As with the standard G-Class, the AMG G63's redesigned suspension makes it extremely capable off-road. For the first time, the front axle has an independent, double wishbone suspension mounted to the ladder-type frame, while a rigid axle with a five-link suspension is used at the rear. As for its styling, the AMG G63 can be easily distinguished by its unique vertical-bar grille. The front-fascia has also been made more aggressive with larger intakes, and the flared wheel arches create extra space for the larger 22-inch wheels. Other unique design features include distinctive trim elements on the front and rear bumpers, metallic paintwork as standard, badging, and red brake calipers.
Two noise settings are also available for the dual-flow exhaust system, depending on if you want the off-roader to sound refined or sporty. Due to go on sale later this year, Mercedes will initially offer a flagship"Edition 1" version of the G63 featuring black paint with contrasting matte gray stripes on the sides and red stripes on the mirrors. There will also be an AMG Night package available with tinted headlights, taillights, and black 22-inch wheels. Expect to see the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 debut at Geneva next month. Prices will be announced at a later date.
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