2019 Mercedes-AMG G63: New Looks, and Tech to Match
The most comprehensive redesign of the Geländewagen to date.
When the all-new 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was leaked earlier this year, opinions were divided. Some applauded the revised looks, while others despised the change. Personally, we are big fans of the new look that the G-Class is sporting. Or, perhaps its the news of a new AMG G63 that has us in good spirits.
Mercedes is certainly pleased with their handiwork. Here is what they have to say about the new Geländewagen:
“The new 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 has undergone the greatest change in its history – while remaining true to its well-proven virtues. The G63 underpins its unique position among performance off-road vehicles with a powerful drive system, an AMG-developed suspension, AMG-specific transmission modes and a new interior with optimal widescreen cockpit.”
Sounds promising, but let’s break down what it all means for the 2019 G63.
Under the hood
The handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, as seen in the AMG C63 S, and other models, replaces the previous 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine in the G63. In this guise it generates 577 hp, and delivers a maximum torque of 627 lb-ft. That big torque figure is spread out between 2,500-3,500 rpm. According to Benz, this provides “a sense of effortless superiority.” Umm, okay.
Those twin, twin-scroll turbochargers are positioned inside the cylinder banks, in what is called a “Hot V” configuration. This makes the engine more compact, and improves efficiency of the turbochargers, and the engine. Beyond that, it sounds like standard faire for the for 4.0-liter motor, including direct-fuel injection, four-valves per cylinder, aluminum construction, and an air-to-water intercooler setup. Additionally, fuel-conserving measures like the ECO Stop/Start function and cylinder deactivation are also in the mix. Though, don’t worry, this is only when the G63 is in “Comfort” mode. This twin-turbo V8 brute will still happily scare passersby at idle, or on throttle.
As a result of these changes, the G63 completes a sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. Mercedes claims this (conservative) figure is 0.9 seconds faster than the previous model. And the top speed, you ask? 137 mph, or 149 mph with the AMG Driver‘s package.
Paired with the monster motor is the new AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission. Yup, that’s a quick-shifting 9-speed transmission. This transmission comes equipped with driver-selectable “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes, as well as a “manual” mode for when the driver needs to take full control. Interestingly, AMG claims that when the G63 is in Sport, or Sport Plus, the transmission will double-declutch on the downshift. Basically, it will smoothly build and match revs between gears on the down shift.
Keep reading about the Mercedes-AMG G63 on the next page.
