The Geländewagen or G-Wagon as it’s affectionately known, has been iconic for decades. Mercedes-Benz had preserved the legendary design thru the years. Since 2019 that has changed with the most comprehensive changes in G-Class history. During my trip to Stuttgart, Germany to the Mercedes-Benz Museum, I was able to follow the heritage of the G-Wagon. Pope’s, celebrities, military personnel, even an uncle of mine, have been proud owners. It features a handcrafted engine from Affalterbach (Home of AMG) that makes 577 HP and 627 lb-ft of torque. The AMG engine is a 4.0 L V8 bi-turbo and it’s matted to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The fuel economy is an EPA rated 15 MPG on the highway, but that’s not why you drive an AMG. You get an AMG for the performance and the G63 darts from 0-60 MPH in 4.4 seconds. Top speed on the G63 is limited to 149 MPH with the available AMG driver package. I spent a week in the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area, and felt right at home with the posh crowd. In upper northwest, Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Northern Virginia, and several other affluent districts, the G-Wagon has found a home in several residences. The new redesign also adds new technology including Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibility. You get 2 12.3″ displays, rich materials, Burmester surround sound system and comand navigation as new upgrades. The Base price on the G63 W4 is $147, 500. The model I drove had an options list that included; AMG Carbon Fiber trim, AMG carbon-fiber engine cover, AMG 22” wheels, AMG night package, and so much more. The delivered price on the model I drove was $164,315. Visit www.mbusa.com for more information.
