Mercedes launches all-new G-Wagen in Malaysia -

Sepang International Circuit was the location for the launch of three performance SUVs by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia: G63, GLC 63 and GLC 63 Coupé

Of the three Mercedes-AMG SUVs, the star of the event was undoubtedly the all-new G-Wagen. In its forty-plus year history, this is the first complete replacement of the model. In the interim, the four-wheel drive has seen several styling and equipment upgrades, had several drivetrain variants introduced, had customised versions built for select customers and been offered in several body forms. All the while remaining recognisably the G-Wagen.

If the new G-Wagen seems indistinguishable from the old G-Wagen, with its boxy silhouette and ladder-frame construction, the similarity is intentional. Mercedes has also retained the body code, 463, for the all-new G, even though it is completely new from the ground up. The body has grown in width by 121mm, and 53mm in length, and now has 6mm more ground clearance while losing 170kg in heft.

The weight reduction is from the G-Wagen’s body which is now built from a combination of aluminium and steel of various grades, distributed according to function and durability. The doors, bonnet and wings are aluminium, the load bearing A and B-pillars are high strength steel. The G-Wagen’s distinctive door handles, and door hinges, were modified to suit the new aluminium design.

Only one variant is offered in Malaysia, the Mercedes-AMG G 63 with AMG-specific radiator grille, AMG bumper with large side air inlets and matt iridium silver trim. Standard equipment include LED High Performance headlamps, indicators and tail lights. Full details of the specifications can be found below.

The engine is a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that pushes out 585bhp, peak torque of 850 Nm and accelerates from 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds. The G 63 has an AMG nine-speed gearbox with a choice of transmission modes to select from depending on driving style. New is the rear-biased torque distribution with a 40% front – 60% rear traction split. It was 50-50 previously. Also new is the suspension system with with coil springs and independent double wishbones in front and a rigid axle, five-link suspension at the rear.

There are eight drive modes. Five are for tarmac: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual. Three are for off-road handling: Sand, Trail and Rock. There is also an additional M mode for Manual with gear changes managed solely through the paddle shifts.

The Mercedes-AMG G 63 is RM1,464,888 on-the-road without insurance.