The Mercedes-Benz G-Class Long (W463, facelift 2012) AMG G 63 V8 (544 Hp) 4MATIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the iconic G-Wagen lineage. Produced from June 2012 to June 2015, this variant occupied the top-tier position in the long-wheelbase G-Class range, offering significantly more power and refinement than its lower-spec counterparts. It built upon the already capable W463 platform, which had been in production since 1979, and benefited from the 2012 facelift that brought updated interior appointments and technology. The G 63 was aimed at buyers seeking an uncompromising blend of off-road prowess, high-performance driving, and exclusive features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class Long (W463, facelift 2012) |
| Type | AMG G 63 V8 (544 Hp) 4MATIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS |
| Start of production | June, 2012 |
| End of production | June, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 17.2 l/100 km (13.7 US mpg, 16.4 UK mpg, 5.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 322 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 219.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 307.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 544 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 99.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 760 Nm @ 2000-5000 rpm (560.55 lb.-ft. @ 2000-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 157.984 |
| Engine displacement | 5461 cm3 (333.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2475 kg (5456.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 725 kg (1598.35 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 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 with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4662 mm (183.54 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2055 mm (80.91 in.) |
| Height | 1951 mm (76.81 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Front overhang | 783 mm (30.83 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 820 mm (32.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 220 mm (8.66 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.54 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.6 m (44.62 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 27° |
| Departure angle | 27° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 24° |
| Climb angle | 38.7° |
| Wading depth | 600 mm (23.62 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission 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 | Disc, 330×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 275/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 9.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the AMG G 63 is the M 157.984 5.5-liter V8 engine. This powerplant is a hand-built, all-aluminum engine featuring direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers. The twin-turbo setup delivers a substantial 760 Nm (560.55 lb.-ft.) of torque available from a low 2000 rpm, providing effortless acceleration. The engine utilizes a sophisticated cylinder deactivation system, which shuts down four cylinders during cruising to improve fuel economy. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission is specifically tuned for performance, offering quick and precise gear changes. This transmission features three driving modes – Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport, and Manual – allowing the driver to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.
Driving Characteristics
The AMG G 63 delivers a unique driving experience. Despite its considerable weight (2475 kg / 5456.44 lbs), the powerful V8 engine and responsive transmission provide exhilarating acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes just 5.3 seconds, and the electronically limited top speed of 130.49 mph is easily reached. While the G-Class’s boxy shape and high center of gravity don’t lend themselves to sporty handling, the AMG-tuned suspension and robust chassis provide a surprisingly stable and controlled ride. Off-road, the G 63 truly shines, with its permanent all-wheel drive system, three locking differentials, and ample ground clearance allowing it to tackle challenging terrain with ease. Compared to the standard G-Class models, the G 63 offers a significantly more engaging and dynamic driving experience, albeit with a substantial fuel consumption penalty.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG G 63 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury and performance features. Interior appointments included premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a high-end audio system. Standard exterior features included AMG-specific body styling, including flared wheel arches, unique bumpers, and side exhaust pipes. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded interior trim options, and a variety of driver-assistance systems. The long-wheelbase configuration provided increased rear passenger legroom compared to the standard G-Class.
Chassis & Braking
The G 63 utilizes a robust ladder-frame chassis, a hallmark of the G-Class design. The suspension consists of coil springs and rigid axles front and rear, providing excellent off-road articulation. The braking system features ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger rotors and upgraded calipers compared to the standard G-Class. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The steering is a recirculating ball system, providing a direct and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG G 63 was widely praised by automotive critics for its combination of performance, luxury, and off-road capability. However, its high price tag and substantial fuel consumption were often noted. Compared to other high-performance SUVs of the time, the G 63 offered a unique and more rugged character. While competitors like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and Range Rover Sport offered more refined on-road handling, the G 63 excelled in off-road situations. Fuel economy was significantly lower than its competitors, averaging around 17 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The W463 AMG G 63 remains a highly sought-after vehicle in the used car market. Its robust construction and relatively simple mechanicals contribute to its long-term reliability, although maintenance costs can be high due to the specialized nature of the vehicle. The M 157 engine, while powerful, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding its cooling system. Despite these potential issues, the AMG G 63 has established itself as a modern classic, representing a unique and uncompromising approach to luxury and performance.
