Mercedes Launches Powerful G63 AMG

Normally the PR folks at a company stretch when coming up with new ways to describe a vehicle but they're spot on when they call the Mercedes G63 the "strong man" of the AMG lineup. This is a true sport utility vehicle that is both sporty and utilitarian.

The new G63 AMG outperforms its predecessor, the G55 AMG KOMPRESSOR, by 44 hp and 44 lb-ft of torque, and was a clear favorite for G-Class purchasers, making-up 40 percent of sales globally. The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine develops a maximum output of 544 horsepower and a torque of 560 lb-ft. This enables the 2013 G63 AMG to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph (electronically limited).

But, get this, the G63 also has its green side (relatively speaking). Mercedes-Benz says the design has been comprehensively refreshed, so that, for the first time in the 33-year history of the G-Class, AMG customers can enjoy some of the latest cutting-edge systems: spray-controlled gasoline direct injection, the ECO stop/start function and alternator management.

The seven-speed automatic gearbox features three drive modes and an automatic rev-matching function for downshifting. In "Controlled Efficiency" (C) mode, the ECO stop/start function is active, shutting down the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is stationary. "C" mode is also characterized by smooth accelerator and transmission characteristics and early gear changes; the vehicle is usually started in second gear in this mode. The AMG instrument cluster includes a green "ECO" symbol, indicating when the ECO stop/start function is on.

In the Sport (S) and Manual (M) modes, the ECO stop/start function is off, and the engine and transmission behave more aggressively. Short, precisely defined ignition and injection retardations mean shorter shift times under full load. The efficiency of the seven-speed automatic transmission system is further enhanced with a new torque converter with centrifugal pendulum, friction-reducing bearing and transmission oil thermal management.

The wheels and brakes are also completely new. The 2013 G63 AMG runs on new AMG split 5-spoke light alloy wheels as standard equipment. The 9.5 x 20 titanium-grey-painted wheels with high-sheen finish are fitted with 275/50 R 20 tires.

The new AMG high-performance brakes deliver top performance in terms of deceleration and endurance. Ventilated all-around, perforated brake discs with dimensions of 14.8 x 1.42 inches at the front and 13 x 0.79 inches at the rear provide optimum thermal capability and outstanding deceleration. The front axle is fitted with a six-piston fixed-caliper brake system taken from the ML 63 AMG, with a single-piston floating-caliper system on the rear axle. Standard red painted calipers are a special highlight of the G63 AMG.

Mercedes-Benz provides a quick overview of the changes to the G63:

Mercedes G63 Performance/Availability:
• On-Sale: August 2012
• 2013 G63 AMG: 544 hp, 560 lb-ft (Previously 500 hp, 516 lb-ft)
• 2013 G550: 388 hp, 391 lb-ft (Previously 382 hp, 391 lb-ft)

New Standard Feature Highlights:
• Direct-injection twin-turbo V8 AMG engine with ECO Stop/Start
• PARKTRONIC
• Blind Spot Assist
• DISTRONIC PLUS
• LED Daytime Running Lights
• Color instrument cluster display
• Tablet-style COMAND screen
• COMAND Controller
• Red brake calipers
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