Status flex: Mercedes-AMG G63 receives local pricing

Status flex: Mercedes-AMG G63 receives local pricing

The world's most popular status item has been gifted the revamp it needs. Although this new iteration of the iconic G-Class maintains its iconic look, it has fallen behind in the tech and modern luxury departments. Fortunately for those looking for the most up-to-date flexing products, the G63 now has an official price and will be available in South Africa in early 2025.

Despite being as aerodynamic as an apartment block, this German 4x4 possesses the power to tear through the air. It pumps out a wholesome 430kW and 830Nm from its 4.0-litre bi-turbocharged V8, and it can do a 0-100km/h sprint in a scant 4.4 seconds. This engine is mated to AMG's SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G gearbox, which supposedly contributes to improved fuel efficiency.

On the topic of fuel drinking, the outgoing G63 is about as thirsty as a car gets. Mercedes originally claimed 13.1l/100km from the previous model, but colleagues in the industry have shared stories of a vastly different result in the real world. As for this new model, the brand has claimed a 15.7-14.7l/100km consumption, and considering the level of refinement that we expect, it's likely to be less thirsty than the models prior. Not that your biggest concern is fuel if you drive a G-Class.

To our relief, the latest changes in the new G63 are its interior and user experience. Mercedes has fitted their MBUX multimedia system within the car, which is slightly more dated than the likes of BMW's iDrive but is still a considerable improvement. It now has a touchscreen display that offers both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Plus, your rear passengers will also have access to two updated screens. Of course, the interior is bound to be luxurious and takes design notes from its smaller siblings, like the GLE. Music quality is also a priority in the G63 to let everybody know you mean business, well, at least in the owner's mind, and it now offers a Burmester 3D surround sound system. 

As for its exterior, it would be unwise to venture away from the old-school boxy design that makes the G-Class so recognisably popular. As expected, the exterior design bears a striking resemblance to the previous models. However, with the addition of the night package, you are given the option to darken the visual character in the front with dark chrome and darkened lighting clusters. You can also opt for an exterior carbon package, which further benefits the 63 nameplate. This covers your spare wheel cover, front and rear underbody, and mirror caps with every car guy's favourite material, carbon fibre.

Massive 20-inch wheels anchor the SUV to the road while subtly hiding the massive black AMG brake callipers. And of course, being a G-Class, it's bound to be one damn impressive off-road vehicle, with its advanced all-wheel-drive setup and front, rear, and centre locking diffs. It's just a shame that owners will likely never touch the mud with theirs. 

Now for the big moment, its price. Coming in at R4,630,600, which includes the service and maintenance plan, it's actually rather well priced considering its added value. On the other hand, BMW's G63 competitor, the XM, is over R1m cheaper, but it lacks the heritage, craze, and sheer recognition that the G-Class has developed over the last few decades. Although their prices have not yet been disclosed, the smaller G-Class models—such as the eagerly awaited EV EQG or the G580 and G450d—will also be available in 2025. The arrival of the new G63 is also scheduled for 2025, most likely in the first quarter.

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