The Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG, produced between 2015 and 2017 as part of the W463 long-wheelbase facelift, represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the iconic G-Class range. This variant, distinguished by its powerful 6.0-liter V12 engine, was positioned as the ultimate expression of the G-Wagen’s capabilities, catering to a clientele seeking exclusivity and uncompromising performance. It built upon the already robust foundation of the W463, which had been in production since 1979, continually evolving from a utilitarian military vehicle to a highly sought-after luxury SUV. The G 65 AMG occupied the top tier of the lineup, significantly exceeding the capabilities of the G 550 and other lower-spec models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class Long (W463, facelift 2015) |
| Type | AMG G 65 V12 (630 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 22.7 l/100 km (10.4 US mpg, 12.4 UK mpg, 4.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg, 20.6 UK mpg, 7.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 17 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg, 16.6 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 397 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4 kg/Hp, 251 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm, 398.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 630 Hp @ 5000-5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 105.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1000 Nm @ 2300-4300 rpm (737.56 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 279.982 |
| Engine displacement | 5980 cm3 (364.92 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt, 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (min) | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (max) | 2250 l (79.46 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal, 21.12 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 200 kg (440.92 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4673 mm (183.98 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Width (with mirrors) | 2055 mm (80.91 in.) |
| Height | 1938 mm (76.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Rear track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Ride height | 220 mm (8.66 in.) |
| Drag coefficient | 0.54 |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.6 m (44.62 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 27° |
| Departure angle | 27° |
| Ramp-over angle | 24° |
| Climb angle | 38.7° |
| Wading depth | 600 mm (23.62 in.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension, Trailing arm |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 375×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×22 mm |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tire size | 275/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 9.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the G 65 AMG is the M279.982 6.0-liter V12 engine. This powerplant utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with two turbochargers, resulting in an output of 630 horsepower and a staggering 1000 Nm (737 lb-ft) of torque. The engine’s architecture features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain and a relatively low 9:1 compression ratio, optimized for the use of premium gasoline. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was specifically tuned to handle the immense power and torque of the V12. This transmission offered quicker shift times and a more responsive driving experience compared to the standard G-Class transmissions. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle, delivering power to all four wheels via Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The G 65 AMG’s driving experience is a unique blend of brute force and surprising refinement. Despite its considerable weight (over 5,500 lbs), the V12 engine provides effortless acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in around 5 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC transmission, while smooth, is geared more towards providing strong pull throughout the rev range rather than maximizing fuel efficiency. The gear ratios are optimized for towing and off-road performance, contributing to the G 65’s impressive capability in challenging terrain. Compared to the G 550, the G 65 offers a significantly more powerful and responsive driving experience. While the G 550 provides adequate performance for most drivers, the G 65 delivers a level of acceleration and torque that is truly exhilarating. The substantial weight and boxy shape of the G-Class do limit its handling agility on paved roads, but the robust suspension and all-wheel-drive system provide a stable and confident ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G 65 AMG came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Interior appointments included exclusive AMG leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and carbon fiber trim. Standard technology included a premium sound system, navigation system, and a suite of driver-assistance features. Optional extras included a designo two-tone paint finish, upgraded leather options, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The G 65 AMG was positioned as a no-compromise luxury SUV, and as such, it offered a level of customization and exclusivity not found in other G-Class models.
Chassis & Braking
The G 65 AMG utilizes a robust ladder-frame chassis, a hallmark of the G-Class design. The suspension consists of coil springs and rigid axles with trailing arms, providing excellent off-road articulation and durability. The braking system features ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger rotors and calipers compared to the standard G-Class models. The G 65 AMG also incorporates ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and other electronic stability control systems to enhance safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G 65 AMG was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and iconic design. However, its high price tag and relatively poor fuel economy were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to other high-performance SUVs, such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and the Range Rover Sport SVR, the G 65 AMG offered a more unique and rugged character. Its off-road capabilities were significantly superior to those of its competitors, while its on-road performance was comparable. The G 65’s fuel economy was notably worse than its competitors, reflecting the inefficiency of its large V12 engine.
Legacy
The M279 V12 engine, while powerful, is known to be complex and potentially expensive to maintain. Long-term reliability has been generally good, but preventative maintenance is crucial. Today, the G 65 AMG is a highly sought-after collector’s item, commanding premium prices in the used car market. Its rarity, exclusivity, and iconic status have made it a desirable vehicle for enthusiasts and collectors alike. The G 65 represents a unique chapter in the G-Class’s history, embodying the brand’s commitment to performance, luxury, and off-road capability.
