The Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG, specifically the long-wheelbase variant produced from 2018 to 2020 (as part of the W463 facelift), represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the iconic G-Class lineage. This iteration builds upon the already formidable reputation of the G-Wagen, offering increased interior space and a significantly upgraded powertrain. Positioned as the top-tier model, the G 63 Long caters to buyers seeking uncompromising off-road capability combined with high-end appointments and blistering speed. It’s a statement vehicle, blending heritage with modern technology and a substantial price tag.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class Long (W463, facelift 2018) |
| Type | AMG G 63 V8 (585 Hp) 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.5 l/100 km (14.3 US mpg, 17.1 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.1-11.5 l/100 km (21.2 – 20.5 US mpg, 25.4 – 24.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.1-13.3 l/100 km (18 – 17.7 US mpg, 21.6 – 21.2 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 299-304 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.2 kg/Hp, 235.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 342.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 585 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 146.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 850 Nm @ 2500-3500 rpm (626.93 lb.-ft. @ 2500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 177.980 |
| Engine displacement | 3982 cm3 (243 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2485 kg (5478.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 715 kg (1576.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 667 l (23.55 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1941 l (68.55 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 150 kg (330.69 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 4881 mm (192.17 in.) |
| Width | 1984 mm (78.11 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2187 mm (86.1 in.) |
| Height | 1969 mm (77.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2890 mm (113.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1654 mm (65.12 in.) |
| Rear track | 1654 mm (65.12 in.) |
| Front overhang | 884 mm (34.8 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 847 mm (33.35 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 241 mm (9.49 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.55 |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.51 m (44.32 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 26.7° |
| Departure angle | 29.2° |
| Ramp-over angle | 24.5° |
| Climb angle | 45° |
| Wading depth | 700 mm (27.56 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives all four wheels permanently. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 400×38 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 370×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 275/50 R20; 285/45 R21; 295/40 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 9.5J x 20; 10J x 21; 10J x 22 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2018-2020 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG Long represents a significant evolution of the G-Class, retaining its iconic boxy silhouette while incorporating substantial mechanical and technological upgrades. Built on the W463 platform, this facelifted model offered a longer wheelbase, providing increased rear passenger legroom – a key differentiator from the standard G 63. The G 63 Long was primarily marketed in regions where spaciousness and luxury were highly valued, including parts of Asia and the Middle East, though examples were available in the US. It aimed to appeal to buyers who desired the G-Class’s off-road prowess but also required a more comfortable and accommodating interior.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the G 63 Long lies the M177.980 4.0-liter V8 engine, a twin-turbocharged masterpiece. This engine produces 585 horsepower at 6000 rpm and a massive 850 Nm (626.93 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2500 and 3500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and features a ‘hot-vee’ configuration, where the turbochargers are located within the V of the engine, resulting in a more compact design and improved responsiveness. The engine’s valvetrain employs Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. Paired with the engine is the 9G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS automatic transmission, a nine-speed unit designed for both rapid shifts and efficiency. This transmission features AMG-specific software and calibrations for enhanced performance. The engine also incorporates cylinder deactivation technology, shutting down cylinders under light load to improve fuel economy, and a particulate filter to reduce emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The G 63 Long delivers a driving experience that is surprisingly agile for a vehicle of its size and weight. The 4.5-second 0-60 mph acceleration is genuinely impressive, thanks to the potent V8 and the quick-shifting transmission. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth gear changes during normal driving and aggressive downshifts when in Sport mode. While the longer wheelbase slightly diminishes the G-Wagen’s legendary maneuverability in tight spaces, the trade-off in rear passenger comfort is significant. The suspension, while firm, effectively manages body roll, and the all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction in various conditions. Compared to the standard G 63, the Long offers a more relaxed and refined ride, prioritizing comfort over outright sportiness. Compared to lower-powered G-Class variants, such as the G 550, the G 63 Long offers a dramatically different level of performance and a more aggressive exhaust note.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G 63 Long comes standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. Interior appointments include premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a high-end Burmester surround sound system. Standard technology includes a large infotainment display with Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX system, navigation, and a suite of driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a rear entertainment system, upgraded interior trim options, and various exterior styling enhancements. The interior design is characterized by its robust build quality and a blend of classic G-Class aesthetics with modern luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The G 63 Long utilizes a robust ladder-frame chassis, a hallmark of the G-Class design, providing exceptional strength and durability. The suspension consists of a double-wishbone setup at the front and a rigid axle suspension at the rear. This configuration balances off-road capability with on-road comfort. The braking system features ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger rotors and calipers compared to lesser G-Class models. The G 63 Long also incorporates an advanced anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) to enhance safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G 63 Long was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and off-road capability. However, its high price tag and substantial fuel consumption were often noted. Compared to other high-performance SUVs, such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo or the Range Rover Sport SVR, the G 63 Long offered a unique combination of ruggedness and luxury. While the Cayenne and Range Rover prioritized on-road performance and handling, the G 63 Long excelled in off-road situations and offered a more distinctive aesthetic. Fuel economy, at 13.1-13.3 l/100 km, was significantly lower than its competitors.
Legacy
The M177-powered G 63 Long has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although maintenance costs can be substantial due to the complexity of the engine and the vehicle’s overall construction. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also demonstrated good durability. On the used car market, the G 63 Long commands a premium price, reflecting its exclusivity and desirability. Its robust build quality and iconic status ensure that it will remain a sought-after vehicle for years to come, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike. The combination of performance, luxury, and off-road capability continues to make it a unique and compelling offering in the high-end SUV segment.
