Proud legacy lives on
REINTERPRETATION: STILL DISTINCTIVELY A G - ONLY BETTER, SAYS MERCEDES-BENZ BOSS
Host of changes from the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine to the enlarged cabin.
Close on four decades after the first civilian G-Class was rolled out – it was developed as a military vehicle – Mercedes-Benz launched the impressive AMG G63 just outside Johannesburg on Monday.
Even though the latest reincarnation has undergone the greatest changes in the model’s history, it remains true to its well-proven virtues.
The G63 underpins its unique position among performance off-road vehicles with the powerful drive system, newly developed AMG ride control suspension, AMG-specific transmission modes and new interior with optimal widescreen cockpit.
The basis for the hallmark AMG driving performance both on and off metalled roads is provided by the 430kW, 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, rear-biased allwheel drive (40:60) with three differential locks, extremely fast-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission, double wishbone independent front suspension and adaptive adjustable damping.
The reinterpretation of the unmistakable design creates strong highlights, with the AMG-specific radiator grille, flared wheel arches, striking side pipes on the exhaust system and the 20-inch wheels – which come as standard.
Co-chief executive of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and executive director of MercedesBenz Cars Johannes Fritz said: “The new G63 inherits the positively powerful DNA of its ancestors. Among the genes are its characteristic design and unparalleled off-roading capabilities.
“We only modified that which would strengthen it and make its uniqueness even more pronounced. In short, the new G63 is still a G – only better – which is what our customers want.”
The engine replaces the previous 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine.
It is claimed to go from 0-100km/h in 4.5 sec and this dynamic performance is maintained up to the limited maximum speed of 220km/h (or 240km/h with the AMG driver’s package).
For more efficiency, the engine is equipped with the AMG cylinder management deactivation system. In the partial-load range, cylinders two, three, five and eight are deactivated, which significantly lowers fuel consumption.
The combined fuel consumption is 13.1l/100km, and the combined CO2 emissions (1) is 299g/ km. The AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission has a model-specific software application to achieve very short shift times.
The multiple downshift function allows more spontaneous bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in Sport and Sport+ transmission modes makes for an even more emotional driving experience.
For the first time in the history of the Mercedes-AMG G-Class, the driving characteristics can be individualised at the touch of a button, with five on-road and three off-road driving modes.
With the five dynamic select on-road modes – Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual – the characteristics range from efficient and comfortable to very sporty.
The off-road reduction gear has been developed for operations on difficult terrain, to ensure the G63 masters even more demanding off-road stretches.
Three off-road modes – Sand, Trail and Rock – are accessed using a switch in the centre console for activation of the central differential lock and can then be selected with the dynamic select rocker switch.
While the exterior maintains the iconic look, the interior reinterprets the genes of the classic vehicle to reflect modern luxury.
With its off-road character and top-class luxury appointments, the G-Class has always combined two extremes into a harmonious symbiosis.
Extremely sporty design, a gritty shape with a heavily contoured rim and intuitive operation are the key attributes of the new AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather, which is standard. The digital 12.3inch widescreen cockpit comes as standard, allowing the driver three different display styles.
Under the name “Mercedes me connect” is an extensive package of free standard services and remote online services via an on-board communication module.
The increase in length (+101mm), width (+121mm) and height (+40mm) provides the basis for a significantly more airy and spacious impression than in the previous model.
Stylish details include the generous use of metal or carbon fibre trim, and leather seats.
On the safety front, the extra-rigid passenger cell gives the occupants sufficient protective space, while active lane keeping assist and traffic sign assist are also standard.
Marketing director of Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa Selvin Govender said: “Almost 40 years after its market launch, the G-Class remains the only Mercedes-Benz model series not to have known an end-of-production to date.
“The G-Class truly keeps evolving, being stronger than time and we are looking forward to the next 40 years.”