Mercedes-Benz G63: A Great Vehicle For The Indian Terrain?

Originally developed to excel in military, municipal as well as civilian duty, the unmistakably ageless design of the G-Class is a pure reflection of the character within. For example, its flat glass windows were designed to make emergency replacement easier in the most remote areas of the world. Even with its modern details, it remains uncomplicated, uncompromised and functional, with a shape and size that maximize interior space while minimizing overhangs for better maneuverability. The visible muscle of the G63 offers ample evidence of its all-around capability. Large, functional mesh intakes in its AMG-design front bumper feed vital air to the engine, intercoolers and cooling systems for the engine and transmission oil.



The G63's timeless design is not its biggest asset. The bigger draw is its monster of an engine and the serious hardware that it comes with. The G-Class which is available in India is powered by a 5,461cc, V8, twin-turbo petrol motor good for 536hp and 760Nm. Compared to the G55 its about 29hp and 60Nm more than the G55 AMG. The engine is teamed with a new 7G-tronic automatic gearbox, replacing the earlier model's five-speed box. This vehicle too continues with a rugged body-on-frame construction, heavy duty axles, tall ground clearance and a low-range transfer case with three-step differential locks for front, rear and center. One source of noise that is always welcome, of course, is that big twin-turbo V8 and the below that emerges from the naughty side-exit exhausts whenever you stir the throttle.



The feel from the electronic steering wheels isn't confidence-inspiring and doesn't feel weighty enough at high speeds. The lazy steering wheel needs additional input when you're making the hefty G turn directions. While the driver and the front passenger have much to get engaged in to, life at the back is less than exciting. There's enough legroom and the seats are fire, but yet comfortable. This Mercedes comes with excellent visibility for its occupants. The high seating position, high roofline, large glass area and slim pillars all mean great outside visibility, so navigating through crowded neighborhoods wouldn't be a problem. Stiff suspension, uninspiring handling, fuel efficiency; are some of the downsides to this vehicle, but they're mostly overlooked when you listen to that growl from the eight cylinder coming out through the side placed exhaust pipes on both sides.



The G63 may be an esoteric choice that probably has even less right to still exist than the G55 before it, but its charming, distinctive and likable all the same. The price of this 4×4 beast starts at ₹1.90 Crores.