The Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG, produced between June 2012 and June 2015, represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the W463 “Long” generation of the G-Class. This variant, distinguished by its hand-built 6.0-liter V12 engine, was positioned as the ultra-premium offering in the G-Class lineup, exceeding the capabilities and price point of the G 55 AMG and other lower-trim models. The “Long” designation refers to the extended wheelbase, providing increased rear passenger space, catering to a market seeking both off-road capability and opulent comfort. It was primarily sold in markets where large, luxurious SUVs were in demand, including North America, Europe, and select regions in Asia.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class Long (W463, facelift 2012) |
| Type | AMG G 65 V12 (612 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) | 22.7 l/100 km (10.4 US mpg, 12.4 UK mpg, 4.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg, 20.6 UK mpg, 7.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 17 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg, 16.6 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 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 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.1 kg/Hp, 244.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm, 399.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 612 Hp @ 4300-5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1000 Nm @ 2300-4300 rpm (737.56 lb.-ft. @ 2300-4300 rpm) |
| 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 | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2505 kg (5522.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 695 kg (1532.21 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 G 65 AMG is the M279.982 6.0-liter V12 engine. This engine, hand-assembled at the Mercedes-AMG facility in Affalterbach, Germany, features twin turbochargers and multi-port fuel injection. The engine produces 612 horsepower at 4300-5600 rpm and a staggering 1000 Nm (737 lb-ft) of torque between 2300 and 4300 rpm. The engine’s architecture includes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with three valves per cylinder. The use of two turbochargers, along with intercooling, helps to mitigate turbo lag and deliver a broad, flat torque curve. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS automatic, specifically tuned for the V12’s power delivery. This transmission offers quick and smooth shifts, with selectable driving modes to prioritize comfort or performance.
Driving Characteristics
The G 65 AMG delivers a unique driving experience. Despite its considerable weight (2505 kg / 5522.58 lbs), the immense torque output allows for rapid acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5 seconds. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing responsive shifts. However, the G-Class’s boxy shape and high center of gravity limit its cornering ability compared to more modern SUVs. The suspension, while comfortable, is tuned more for off-road capability than sporty handling. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, making it a capable off-roader despite its luxurious appointments. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and high-speed cruising, though fuel economy remains poor.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G 65 AMG came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Interior appointments included exclusive leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium sound system. Standard technology included a navigation system, rearview camera, and parking sensors. Optional extras included designo leather options, a rear entertainment system, and various exterior styling enhancements. The interior trim was typically finished with wood or carbon fiber accents. The “Long” wheelbase version offered significantly more rear legroom than the standard G-Class, enhancing passenger comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The G 65 AMG utilizes a robust ladder-frame chassis, a hallmark of the G-Class lineage, providing exceptional durability and off-road strength. The suspension consists of coil springs and a rigid axle setup with trailing arms at both the front and rear. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front (375×36 mm) and solid discs at the rear (330×22 mm). An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering system is a recirculating ball type with hydraulic power assistance. The tires are 275/50 R20, mounted on 9.5J x 20 inch wheels.
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 poor fuel economy were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to the G 55 AMG, the G 65 offered significantly more power and torque, along with a more refined driving experience. Against competitors like the Range Rover Autobiography and Porsche Cayenne Turbo, the G 65 stood out for its unique character and off-road prowess, though it lacked the on-road sophistication of its rivals. Fuel economy was significantly worse than most competitors, averaging around 13.8 US mpg combined.
Legacy
The G 65 AMG represents a unique chapter in the G-Class’s history. Its hand-built V12 engine and exclusive features have made it a highly sought-after vehicle among collectors and enthusiasts. While the W463 generation has been replaced by the newer W464, the G 65 AMG remains a symbol of uncompromising luxury and performance. The M279 V12 engine, while no longer in production, is known for its durability and reliability when properly maintained. On the used car market, G 65 AMGs command a premium price, reflecting their rarity and desirability.
