True luxury, by definition, means practicality isn’t a major concern. You want an extravagant item or service, but you certainly don’t need it.
With the unmistakable popularity of the SUV and crossover segments, it was only a matter of time before manufacturers took the formula to 11. Plenty of luxury people-haulers can deliver passengers and cargo in opulence, but there’s always someone willing to build and sell a six-figure ride that offers just a little more of everything.
Mercedes-Benz’s AMG performance division answered with the G63, a superlative SUV that rockets from 0-60 mph in the blink of an eye. That’s remarkable capability for a machine tipping the scales at nearly three tons. For those with the desire and the means to write a check with two commas, the G63 belongs on the short list of fast, extravagant and nearly bulletproof SUVs.
The newest G-Wagon continues the narrative of a beast in beast’s clothing. It’s worth taking a closer look at the wow factors that make this superb brute such an adrenaline rush in everyday driving. And with only a few additional options, the already well-equipped G63 is ready to delight the senses.
SKIN
The exterior is big and beefy, yet elegant in its design. Finished in MANUFAKTUR Arabian Grey non-metallic paint, our tester stood out from the usual sea of black and white luxury SUVs. Optional carbon fiber trim ($3,700) provides subtle hints of the fire-breathing performance lurking under the hood, complemented by larger air intakes, an aggressive grille, a sport fascia and muscular dual exhaust outlets tucked beneath each running board.
Unique puddle lights project a high-definition “G” and “Stronger Than Time” emblem from the side-view mirrors. Twin arched LED daytime running lights frame the bright Adaptive Highbeam Assist headlights, while the LED taillights create a striking look after dark. Permanent running boards, though a bit high and narrow, provide welcome traction when climbing in and out of the elevated cabin. Finish it all off with the striking 22-inch AMG cross-spoke black wheels ($4,650) and red brake calipers, and the G63 makes a stunning first impression.
PERFORMANCE
The AMG version brings more than enough oomph to the party. The star of the show is the hand-built 4.0-liter biturbo V8, producing 577 horsepower and 627 lb.-ft. of torque, aided by a mild-hybrid system. It’s a rocket launcher that will put a grin on the face of any driving enthusiast. The delicious burble from the quad exhausts is music to your ears every time you bury the throttle. It’s also astonishingly quick for such a brute, sprinting from 0-60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. Those are serious sports car numbers for a large, boxy SUV.
Handling is equally impressive, especially with the optional AMG Active Ride Control suspension. It delivers a comfortable ride in everyday driving, yet keeps body roll virtually nonexistent when the road gets twisty. Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive confidently handled some absolute gully washers in North Texas, and the G63 can tow up to 7,500 pounds. While that’s not class-leading, it’s more than enough for most owners.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT nine-speed transmission is superb, delivering seamless upshifts and perfectly timed downshifts accompanied by a satisfyingly malicious crackle from the exhaust in Sport and Sport+ modes. It’s such an addictive soundtrack that I often found myself leaving the radio off.
Drivers can individually tailor the suspension, steering, powertrain and throttle response through five drive modes: Comfort, Slippery, Individual, Sport and Sport+. Whether you prefer to cruise in luxury or take full control with the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, the G63 is happy to oblige. Naturally, I spent most of my time in Sport, enjoying the sharper responses, glorious exhaust note and exceptional handling.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT also includes several off-road settings for those who plan to venture beyond the pavement. Fuel economy, however, is predictably thirsty at 13 city/18 highway mpg, translating to roughly a 250-mile cruising range. Then again, buyers shopping for a G63 are unlikely to lose much sleep over fuel stops when the payoff is this much power, capability and prestige.
CABIN
A six-figure SUV should surround its passengers in sumptuous luxury, and the AMG G63 delivers in every respect. There’s no shortage of premium materials or high-tech features throughout the beautifully crafted cabin.
Storage is plentiful, with generous door pockets and a deep center console ready to swallow all of your everyday essentials. The optional MANUFAKTUR Interior Package Plus ($8,500) elevates the experience even further with quilted diamond-stitched Nappa leather, perforated ACTIVE multicontour seats and an array of massage functions. Luxury, indeed.
You sit commanding and high above the road, though climbing in and out requires a little care thanks to the narrow, elevated running boards. The heated and ventilated contrast-stitched seats are outstanding, as is the heated center armrest. Active side bolsters automatically tighten through corners to provide excellent lateral support, while the four massage programs are the perfect reward after a long day at the office or on the golf course. I found myself using them regularly.
I’m also a fan of the gear selector mounted on the right-side steering column stalk, which frees up valuable space on the center console. Heated and cooled cup holders work remarkably well, the paddle shifters deliver crisp gear changes, and the thick flat-bottom AMG steering whee l– with microfiber suede at the 9 and 3 o’clock positions – feels fantastic in your hands. Illuminated door sills, customizable ambient lighting and red AMG seat belts add just the right amount of theater.
Both front cup holders are heated and cooled, while the rear seats power-fold and recline slightly for added comfort. Cargo space measures 16 cubic feet with the seats in place – still enough room for two golf bags – and expands to a useful 69 cubic feet with the second row folded.
Rear-seat legroom is adequate for taller adults, though the lofty roofline provides excellent headroom. The doors require a solid slam to close, as does the heavy side-hinged rear gate carrying the full-size spare tire. Thankfully, the crisp 360-degree Surround View camera system makes maneuvering the boxy G63 into tight spaces far less intimidating. A panoramic glass roof brightens the cabin, while the optional AMG carbon fiber and black lacquer trim completes the sporty yet elegant atmosphere.
TECH TOYS
The large infotainment display is crisp, responsive and easy to read. Drivers can navigate the system using either the touchpad above the center console or the rotary controller below it. I’m not entirely sure why Mercedes offers both, as either works well, though I found myself favoring the rotary controller because it’s easier to use while driving. Two illuminated Burmester speaker grilles on the dashboard add a nice visual touch and are part of the outstanding 3D Burmester High-End Surround Sound System, which pumps out 1,500 watts through 15 speakers.
Technology is abundant throughout the cabin. Bluetooth voice quality is excellent, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrate seamlessly and respond accurately to voice commands. Five USB-C ports ensure everyone can keep their devices charged.
The G63 also comes loaded with reassuring safety technology. It gently nudges you back into your lane when needed, constantly monitors traffic ahead to help prevent frontal collisions, prepares the cabin in the event of an impending rear-end impact and features PRE-SAFE braking with Pedestrian Recognition. Radar-based DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control maintains a safe following distance and makes long highway drives noticeably less stressful.
The 2026 AMG G63 is a superb blend of outrageous performance, exceptional luxury and cutting-edge technology. Starting at $195,550, the original G-Wagon delivers its occupants in absolute comfort while possessing the capability to tackle just about anything Mother Nature throws its way.
Yes, luxury is rarely practical – but isn’t that the whole point?