Mercedes-Benz has finally released details on the AMG variants of its latest G-Class SUV. For 2013, the G63 and G65 AMG receive some cosmetic updates inside and out, while the G63 benefits from a more powerful engine.
The G63 AMG is powered by a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 engine that produces 536-hp (400 kW / 544 PS) and 560 lb-ft (760 Nm) of torque, 36 hp (27 kW / 37 PS) and 44 lb-ft (60 Nm) more than the outgoing G55 AMG. Employing a seven-speed AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-TRONIC transmission and an all-wheel drive system, the performance-tuned boxy SUV accelerates from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 5.4 seconds and reaches an electronically-limited top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).
The more powerful G65 AMG packs a mighty 6.0-liter biturbo V12 engine that makes 603-hp (450 kW / 612 PS) and 737 lb-ft (1000 Nm) of torque. Using the same transmission as the G63, it sprints to 62 mpg in just 5.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 143 mph (230 km/h).
The exteriors of both the G63 and G65 AMG receive some revisions, including a more aggressive front bumper, a restyled grille with mesh inserts, a side-mounted exhaust system and unique alloy wheels. The interior features an upgraded instrument cluster, two-tone leather seats and carbon fiber trim.
German sales of both SUVs begin in June 2012 with an after-tax starting price of €137,504 (US$180,900) for the G63 AMG and €264,180 (US$347,500) for the G63 AMG. North American sales of the G63 AMG start in August.
