New technology for the AMG off-road icon: the new 2013 G63 AMG impresses with a state-of-the-art powertrain, expressive new design and improved efficiency. All this is largely attributable to the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine delivering 544 hp and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. The 2013 G63 AMG makes its U.S. showroom debut in August.

Every new AMG high-performance vehicle offers an outstanding mix of “more power from less fuel” – and the G63 AMG is no exception. The “strong man” in the AMG model range has been further enhanced with the state-of-the-art powertrain of the new ML63 AMG. The design has been comprehensively refreshed, so that, for the first time in the 33-year history of the G-Class, AMG customers can enjoy some of the latest cutting-edge systems: spray-controlled gasoline direct injection, the ECO stop/start function and alternator management. The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine develops a maximum output of 544 hp and a torque of 560 lb-ft. This enables the 2013 G63 AMG to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph (electronically limited).

The vehicle’s driving performance features are matched by its impressive advances in the area of fuel economy. The fuel consumption has been reduced by 13 percent (European cycle) thanks to the state-of-the-art biturbo eightcylinder engine, along with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission, the alternator management system and the ECO stop/start function. The seven-speed automatic gearbox features three drive modes and an automatic rev-matching function for downshifting, creating an incredible range of versatility. In “Controlled Efficiency” © mode, the ECO stop/start function is active, shutting down the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is stationary. “C” mode is also characterized by smooth accelerator and transmission characteristics and early gear changes; the vehicle is usually started in second gear in this mode. The AMG instrument cluster includes a green “ECO” symbol, indicating when the ECO stop/start function is on.

In the Sport (S) and Manual (M) modes, the ECO stop/start function is off, and the engine and transmission behave more aggressively. Short, precisely defined ignition and injection retardations mean shorter shift times under full load. The efficiency of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission system is further enhanced with a new torque converter with centrifugal pendulum, friction-reducing bearing and transmission oil thermal management.

Despite fuel efficiency improvements, there’s been no sacrifice in emotional appeal. The twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system emit the hallmark AMG eight-cylinder sound that’s central to this vehicle’s appeal. The latest catalytic converter technology is used to ensure that the G63 AMG meets both the EU 5 exhaust emissions standard and the requirements for the US market (LEV-II standard, on-board diagnosis II and lambda probe diagnosis).

The suspension/damper settings in the AMG Sports chassis have been adjusted for the more dynamic handling characteristics of the new model. To reduce vibration and noise, the design engineers at Mercedes-AMG also implemented a wide range of measures including optimized bearings for the automatic gearbox, transfer case and engine cut vibration and noise levels. All this ensures a more comfortable ride and helps to keep the driver fit and alert, particularly over long distances.

The wheels and brakes are also completely new. The 2013 G63 AMG runs on new AMG split 5-spoke light alloy wheels as standard equipment. The 9.5 × 20 titanium-grey-painted wheels with high-sheen finish are fitted with 275/50 R 20 tires. The new AMG high-performance brakes deliver top performance in terms of deceleration and endurance. Ventilated all-around, perforated brake discs with dimensions of 14.8 × 1.42 inches at the front and 13 × 0.79 inches at the rear provide optimum thermal capability and outstanding deceleration. The front axle is fitted with a six-piston fixed-caliper brake system taken from the ML 63 AMG, with a single-piston floating-caliper system on the rear axle. Standard red painted calipers are a special highlight of the G63 AMG.

The 2013 G-Class also offers a range of exemplary safety features. For example, the luxury off-roader has an updated version of ESP®, with automatic control systems including the start-up assist and a HOLD function, both for easier hill starts. And in an emergency braking situation, when the driver suddenly releases the accelerator, the brake system “pre-charges” the pressure in the brake lines which ensures maximum effect as soon as the brake is applied.

The exterior of the eight-cylinder top-of-the-range model has also been refreshed. Following the example of the SL63 AMG and SL65 AMG, the G63 AMG has also taken on the new face of the AMG brand. The high-gloss black “twin-blade” radiator grille with four chrome inserts makes the new G-Class model instantly recognizable as an AMG. The grille design is consistent with the car’s classic contours, with an off-road look perfectly integrated into the vehicle’s overall appearance.

Another completely new feature is the AMG bumper, with three generously dimensioned openings as airflow inlets. Vertical high-gloss chrome stainless steel inserts create a distinctively masculine look for the G63 AMG. New LED daytime running lamps are fitted below the bi-xenon headlamps. The AMG model also has characteristic fender flares, stainless-steel running boards and side protective strips with stainless-steel inserts. Other distinctive features include the “V8 BITURBO” logo on the front fender and a standard brush guard on U.S. models.

The interior features even more innovations in comparison including the new instrument panel and state-of-the-art infotainment and assist systems, the G63 AMG has an AMG instrument cluster with color TFT screen, AMG main menu and separate gear display, plus white-lit AMG sills on all doors. The elegant ESELECT shift lever with the distinctive AMG medallion is a familiar feature from other models such as the SLS AMG. An exclusive interior is created by the designo leather upholstery with fluted leather door paneling. Options available for an even more stylish interior include trim in AMG carbon, designo Champagne white lacquer or designo light brown satin poplar.