2025 Mercedes-AMG G63 Revealed With 600-HP V8 As Mercedes-Benz G-Class Drops V8

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the facelifted 2025 G550 and G63 with several improvements, new technology, and additional personalization options through the Manufaktur service. The big news is that America’s entry-level G-Class derivative arrives with a new inline-six engine instead of the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. Mercifully, the G63 soldiers on with Affalterbach’s beloved eight-cylinder.

While it looks the same, Mercedes has gone to great lengths to streamline the bodywork, resulting in a more efficient and refined SUV. As with every update to the Gelandewagen, none of this has affected the off-road ability of the G-Class.

Updated Engine For The G550

Powering the G550 is a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that produces 443 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, an additional 20 hp and 148 lb-ft are available at lower speeds. Mercedes claims a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. The V8 will no longer be offered.

The automaker hasn’t published gas mileage estimates, but it’s safe to assume the new G550 is more efficient than its V8 predecessor. The updated G-Class sends power to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission.

As for the G63, that still gets a thumping V8 motor, albeit with electrification. The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 receives the same integrated starter generator as the G550, providing the same additional hp and torque as the standard model for a total of 597 hp and 775 lb-ft. A nine-speed AMG Speedshift TCT transmission feeds all four wheels, contributing to a 0-60 mph sprint time of 4.2 seconds. The electronic limiter puts an end to the fun at 137 mph.

Plenty Of Off-Roading Equipment

The transfer case in the G550 now distributes 40% of its torque to the front axle and 60% to the rear. An off-road gear reduction increases torque when off-road, adding to the vehicle’s already impressive abilities. This is engaged by placing the gearbox in neutral with low range engaged, and it operates at speeds of up to 25 mph.

When high range is activated, the transfer case provides a 1.00:1 ratio, while low range offers a 2.93:1 ratio. Drivers can switch between the two on the fly, provided they’re driving at 44 mph or slower.

A multi-plate clutch provides the G550 with superb maneuverability off-road. It operates like an automatic limited-slip differential, moving to a fixed lock with a 100% locking effect when the center differential lock is activated. The front and rear differentials work as regular diff locks and operate electromechanically. G550 models automatically select the ‘Rock’ drive mode when the locks are engaged.

Adjustable adaptive damping is standard on the G550 and improves comfort on- and off-road. The system boasts roll and pitch stabilization and continues to monitor the vehicle’s movements to keep body movements to a minimum. Mercedes claims the suspension has been tested to ensure it can withstand anything nature can throw at it – nice to know when you’re off-roading in the middle of nowhere.

The Dynamic Select drive mode program now has three off-road modes. Aside from the regular ‘Comfort,’ ‘Sport,’ ‘Eco,’ and ‘Individual’ programs, the G550 receives ‘Trail’ for dirt and gravel roads, ‘Rock’ for harsh, rockier surfaces, and ‘Sand’ for desert and beach driving.

Athletic G63 Available With AMG Active Ride Control

Optionally, buyers of the G63 can equip AMG Active Ride Control, which improves handling and comfort. When equipped, the standard suspension is replaced with active hydraulics, meaning the adaptive shock absorbers gain hydraulic connectors.

The hydraulics can compensate for individual movements that would usually create body roll. This makes for a more composed, relaxing drive and superior traction on- and off-road. This system also improves wheel articulation on the G63.

If you want to take your G63 onto the dirt, you may want to specify the AMG Offroad Package PRO. This includes AMG Traction Pro, which gives the vehicle the most possible traction when the ‘Rock’ or ‘Sand’ drive modes are engaged. AMG Active Balance Control can adjust the vehicle’s roll stiffness depending on the off-road surface.

Of course, the regular ‘Comfort,’ ‘Sport,’ and ‘Sport+’ drive modes are also available.

‘Blink Or You’ll Miss It’ Styling Updates

Mercedes hasn’t messed with the styling of the G-Class, and for good reason. The design has stood the test of time for more than 40 years, and it’s arguably most buyers’ favorite element of the vehicle. Still, there is always room for improvement, and the body has been streamlined for improved aerodynamics, with the G550 and G63 both benefiting from updates that were initially intended for the all-electric G-Class.

But look closely, and there are some changes. The bumpers are new, with the front ones featuring square air inlet grilles with a distinctive pattern. New A-pillar trim and a small roof spoiler at the rear have improved aerodynamics, while new insulation materials reduce noise levels. Standard LED headlights and a fresh grille design freshen up the front end.

19-inch wheels are standard, but customers can choose from 18- and 20-inch designs. Twilight Blue Metallic paint has also been added to the color palette. Optionally, customers can select from the Professional Package, which lends the G-Class utilitarian flair thanks to 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and more. An AMG Line package includes flared wheel arches, 20-inch AMG wheels, and a Nappa leather-trimmed sports steering wheel.

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The AMG benefits from similar updates but also receives model-specific touches. For one, the new AMG front bumper gets a trio of sporty-looking louvers on the air vents, along with stainless steel trim. AMG’s crest takes pride of place on the hood, and customers can choose from six different wheel options, sized between 20 and 22 inches.

Those looking for more aggression can spring for the AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber package, which introduces the lightweight material to the spare wheel cover, bumpers, and other exterior trim elements. Manufaktur Hyper Blue Magno paint is new and available only on the G63.

Luxurious Interior Gets Subtle Nip/Tuck

The cabins of the G-Class and G63 have received minor updates. The signature dash-mounted grab handle on the passenger side and the centrally positioned switches for the diff locks are still present. Both models benefit from the new Mercedes multi-function steering wheel, leather upholstery, and standard 64-color ambient lighting.

An Exclusive Interior Package makes the G550 interior even more luxurious, with standard Nappa leather, a Burmester 3D surround sound system, and ambient lighting for the air vents and audio system. Those requiring even more will have to go for the Exclusive Interior Package Plus that introduces Active Multicontour seats, among other things.

If you want to stand out, the Manufaktur personalization service allows you to customize the G550 to your heart’s content, with more than one million possible combinations. This includes unique leather combinations, colors, and extended trim options.

In the G63, there are minor differences, such as the AMG Performance steering wheel with integrated AMG Drive unit controls.

Features And Technology

The updated G-Class is packed with new features, such as the Offroad Cockpit. This gives the driver a view of the most important off-roading information, such as steering angle, diff lock status, temperature, tire pressure, and altitude.

A Transparent Hood function also assists the driver in viewing things directly in front of the vehicle. This will prevent any expensive damage and allow the SUV to be maneuvered in the best way possible. This is handy on a steep incline or in a crowded parking lot. Infiniti recently introduced something similar on the all-new QX80.

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The MBUX infotainment system has also received an upgrade, with the 12.3-inch dual screens now displaying the traffic light status when the traffic light signal itself is out of view. Augmented Reality for Navigation is now standard, and the voice assistance feature has been updated to perform certain features without needing to say “Hey Mercedes” first.

20 new voice commands were created for use in the new G-Class. Of course, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Standard features include keyless go, heated/cooled cupholders, and wireless device chargers.

Safety Features, Availability, And Electric G-Class Arrival

As you would expect from Mercedes-Benz, the G550 and G63 receive the latest safety features. This includes active brake assist, active lane-keep assist, PRE-SAFE occupant protection, park distance control with active park assist, a 360-degree camera, and adaptive cruise control.

For the first time, the G-Class can now be equipped with active steering assist (which works at speeds of up to 100 mph) and active emergency stop assist that can bring the vehicle to a stop should the driver become incapacitated. Route-based speed assistance is also offered for the first time.

Mercedes-Benz USA is yet to reveal pricing for the updated 2025 G550 and G63, but each will likely carry a premium over the current base prices of $143,000 and $179,000, respectively. Expect the first models to hit dealerships in the second half of the year.

As for the highly anticipated electric G-Class, Mercedes says the rugged EV will “round out the model portfolio at a later date.” Hopefully, it will make an appearance before year-end.