Mercedes-Benz AMG G-Class Review

In Malaysia's luxury hardcore SUV market, the Mercedes-Benz AMG G-Class has always been an iconic presence – its boxy design is both a symbol of nostalgia and a choice for high-net-worth individuals seeking uniqueness. The 2024 AMG G63, as a mid-cycle facelift model, introduces a mild hybrid (MHEV) system for the first time, while upgrading its smart features. Priced at RM 1,948,888, it is nearly RM 600,000 more expensive than the 2019 model. The core purpose of this test drive is to verify whether the mild hybrid system truly improves driving quality and if the new features justify the price hike.

The exterior of the 2024 G63 continues with the classic boxy design, with the overall silhouette almost identical to the 2019 and 2018 models, maintaining high recognizability. The vertical chrome grille and round LED headlights remain unchanged, but the air intake details on the front bumper are slightly adjusted with the addition of more black plastic panels, giving it a sportier feel. The straight waistline on the side of the body, along with the 22-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels and 295/40 R22 tires, retains the ruggedness of a hardcore SUV; the rear’s externally mounted spare tire and square-shaped LED taillights are also familiar sights. The only difference is an additional "EQ Boost" label under the "G 63" badge on the rear hatch, hinting at its mild hybrid identity.

Stepping inside, the interior quality of the 2024 G63 has been noticeably upgraded. The dashboard retains its T-shaped layout, but the dual 12.3-inch displays – one fully digital instrument cluster and one central touchscreen – are more technologically advanced than the single full-digital instrument cluster in the 2019 model. The air vents have been changed from circular to square, which, while losing some of the retro vibe, align better with the overall digital interior. In terms of materials, the seats and door panels are covered in Nappa leather, with a finer texture that feels more luxurious compared to the standard leather in the older model. Added features include a heads-up display (HUD), allowing speed and navigation to be viewed without looking down, and the Burmester 3D sound system has been upgraded from 12 speakers in the old model to 15, with a clearer surround sound effect.

The interior space is consistent with the old model, with the vehicle measuring 4613mm×1984mm×1969mm in length, width, and height, and a wheelbase of 2890mm. The front seats support electric adjustment, and when a 180cm-tall driver adjusts the seating position, there is a headroom of one fist and two fingers; the rear legroom is two fists, and the headroom is one fist, making it suitable for family use as a mid-size SUV. The trunk has a capacity of 667L, leaving spare space even after placing two 28-inch suitcases. The rear seats can fold down in a 40:20:40 split, offering good flexibility. For storage details, the front center armrest box is very deep, door panel storage compartments can hold two bottles of mineral water, and the front row offers a wireless charging pad, making it more practical than the 2019 model.

The powertrain is the core change in the 2024 G63. It is equipped with a 4.0T V8 twin-turbo engine plus a mild hybrid motor providing 15kW/200N·m of power, delivering a combined system maximum output of 430kW (585PS) and maximum torque of 850N·m, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 4.4 seconds, 0.1 seconds faster than the 2019 model. During actual driving, the mild hybrid system can compensate for turbo lag during startup, delivering instant power upon pressing the accelerator. Mid-to-high-speed acceleration remains rapid, making highway overtaking effortless. When switched to Sport mode, the exhaust sound becomes more robust, and the shifting logic becomes more aggressive, aligning with the AMG's performance-oriented positioning.

The handling performance exceeds expectations. The combination of the front double wishbone independent suspension and rear solid axle with coil springs is softer tuned than the rear solid axle of the 2019 model. It filters bumps more thoroughly when passing speed bumps while retaining the solid feel of a tough SUV. The steering wheel is precise with less play than the old model; it feels light at low speeds and stable at high speeds. During continuous cornering on mountain roads, the body roll is well-controlled. The four 295-wide tires provide ample grip, maintaining overall stability. On the test drive day, we encountered a section of unpaved road. With the full-time four-wheel-drive system complemented by three differential locks (central, front axle, and rear axle), it easily tackled gravel roads and small slopes. Its off-road capability remains among the best in its class.

As for fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is 14.7L/100km, slightly higher than the 13.2L of the 2019 model. However, considering the power output increase, this performance is reasonable. In actual city commuting, fuel consumption is between 18-20L/100km, while on highways, it drops to around 12L, which aligns with the expectations for a large V8 engine. Noise control is well-done; at 120km/h on the highway, wind and tire noise are not significant, with only a slight engine sound entering the cabin, which can be mostly masked by turning on the Burmester sound system.

Compared to same-segment models, the core advantages of the 2024 G63 lie in its unique emotional appeal and comprehensive performance—it can meet both daily luxury commuting needs and handle serious off-road challenges. Compared to the BMW X5 M and Porsche Cayenne Turbo, the G63 has superior off-road capabilities and a more distinctive design. When compared to the Land Rover Defender 110 V8, it offers greater brand influence and a more luxurious interior. However, its price is a downside. It's approximately 600,000 Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) more expensive than the 2019 model and about 300,000 MYR more than the Defender 110 V8, making it more suitable for users with ample budgets.

Overall, the 2024 AMG G63 is a "versatile" luxury rugged SUV. It retains its classic appearance and outstanding off-road capabilities while enhancing everyday practicality through a mild-hybrid system and upgraded configurations. It's suitable for two types of buyers: high-net-worth individuals who value uniqueness and emotion and customers who need a multi-purpose vehicle for business receptions and weekend off-roading. If you can accept its price, it practically has no significant shortcomings, making it the top choice in the luxury rugged SUV segment.