The Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG, part of the long-wheelbase (W463) G-Class facelift introduced in 2015, represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the iconic G-Wagen lineage. Produced for a limited run from 2015 to 2017 for the US market, this variant was distinguished by its hand-built 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering an astounding 621 horsepower. Positioned as the flagship model, the G 65 AMG catered to buyers seeking exclusivity, immense power, and the G-Class’s legendary off-road capability combined with a high level of refinement. It sat above the G 550 in the lineup, offering a significantly more potent engine and a more luxurious interior.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class Long (W463, facelift 2015) |
| Type | AMG G 65 V12 (621 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS (USA) |
| 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) | 21.4 l/100 km (11 US mpg, 13.2 UK mpg, 4.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 18.1 l/100 km (13 US mpg, 15.6 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 19.6 l/100 km (12 US mpg, 14.4 UK mpg, 5.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.3 kg/Hp, 231.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 372.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 621 Hp @ 5000-5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 103.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1000 Nm @ 2300-4300 rpm (737.56 lb.-ft. @ 2300-4300 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6100 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 | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2687 kg (5923.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1280 l (45.2 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2251 l (79.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal | 21.12 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Length | 4763 mm (187.52 in.) |
| Width including 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 (Back) track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Front overhang | 782 mm (30.79 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 820 mm (32.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 196 mm (7.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.6 m (44.62 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 27° |
| Departure angle | 27° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 22° |
| 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 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, 376×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 295/40 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 10J x 21 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG, launched as part of the W463 facelift in 2015, represented the ultimate expression of the G-Class’s capabilities. Built by hand in Graz, Austria, this long-wheelbase variant was specifically tailored for markets like the United States, where demand for high-performance luxury SUVs was strong. The W463 generation, produced from 1990 to 2018, saw significant modernization over its predecessor, and the 2015 facelift brought further refinements to both the interior and exterior. The G 65 AMG was a relatively short-lived model, with production ending in 2017, adding to its exclusivity.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the G 65 AMG is the M279.982 6.0-liter V12 engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with two turbochargers, resulting in a formidable 621 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque. The engine’s architecture features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per cylinder bank and a compression ratio of 9:1. The engine’s robust construction and advanced cooling systems were essential to manage the immense heat generated by the twin-turbochargers. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via a 7G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS automatic transmission. This transmission was specifically tuned for the G 65 AMG, offering quicker shift times and a more responsive driving experience. The transmission features seven forward gears and allows for manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Driving Characteristics
Despite its considerable weight (over 5,900 lbs), the G 65 AMG delivers surprisingly agile performance. The 621 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque provide effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of just 5.2 seconds. While not designed for track days, the G 65 AMG’s power allows for confident overtaking and strong performance in various driving conditions. The 7G-TRONIC transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing smooth and responsive shifts. However, the G-Class’s inherent boxy shape and high center of gravity limit its cornering ability compared to more modern SUVs. The G 65 AMG excels in providing a unique driving experience – a blend of brute force, luxurious comfort, and off-road capability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G 65 AMG came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. The interior was lavishly appointed with high-quality leather upholstery, including AMG-specific seats. Standard features included heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, navigation, and a host of driver-assistance technologies. Optional extras included a designo interior package, offering a wider range of leather colors and trim options, as well as a rear-seat entertainment system. The exterior featured unique AMG styling cues, including flared wheel arches, side running boards, and distinctive alloy wheels.
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 a rigid axle setup at both the front and rear, providing excellent off-road articulation. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, measuring 376mm in diameter at the front and 330mm at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The steering system is a recirculating ball type with hydraulic power assistance, providing a direct and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G 65 AMG was generally well-received by critics, who praised its immense power, luxurious interior, and iconic styling. However, its high price tag and relatively poor fuel economy (12 mpg combined) were noted drawbacks. Compared to the G 550, the G 65 AMG offered a significant performance advantage but at a substantial premium. The G 65 AMG also faced competition from other high-performance luxury SUVs, such as the Range Rover Sport SVR and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, but it distinguished itself with its unique character and off-road heritage.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG has become a highly sought-after vehicle in the used car market. Its limited production run and unique combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity have made it a collector’s item. The M279 V12 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. However, maintenance costs can be high due to the engine’s complexity and the G-Class’s overall build quality. The G 65 AMG represents a unique chapter in the G-Class’s history, embodying the brand’s commitment to uncompromising performance and timeless design.
