Blog Posts
Feb 25, 2022
by Karl Furlong Spy Shots / 2 Comments
How do you evolve an icon?
Mercedes-Benz has been so busy working on its range of smoothly styled, powerful, and efficient EQ electric models that it's almost easy to forget about an SUV that is the complete antithesis to all of that - the AMG G63. With the aerodynamics of a brick and a bellowing V8, it couldn't be further removed from the upcoming AMG EQE SUV.
But the G63 remains one of the coolest SUVs on the block, and one of the most capable too. It's now time for the G63 to receive a facelift and we've just caught a partially camouflaged model out in the wild. Unsurprisingly, the changes aren't drastic, but a more meaningful technology upgrade for the cabin could be coming.
We expect a refreshed design for the bumpers but the rounded headlights with LED rings remain untouched. The test mule didn't have the Panamericana grille with vertical bars, making do with a rudimentary mesh cover instead, but we anticipate that the grille will remain much the same for the final product. Familiar fender flares, a side-exit exhaust, and an externally-mounted spare wheel at the back are all features shared with the 2021 model. Although the interior wasn't photographed, previous sightings indicate that it could receive Merc's more advanced MBUX infotainment system, replacing the COMAND unit.
Powertrain-wise, we know that an electric G-Class is in the pipeline but the AMG G63 is likely to continue with its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Producing 577 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, this V8 is a massive part of the G63's character.
Considering that the new AMG EQE sedan makes up to 677 hp, an AMG-badged electric G-Class is by no means out of reach. No discernable hybrid ports of hybrid warning stickers rule out that possibility for the updated G63 too, a further sign that the V8 remains as is. Just yesterday, the new Mercedes-AMG G-Class 4x4 Squared was spotted undergoing winter testing, except this raised version of the powerful SUV was barely hidden by any camouflage.
While electrification of even the beastly G63 is inevitable at some point, we're happy that Merc's legendary off-roader isn't going that route just yet. A reveal of the updated G63 is expected later this year or early in 2023.
