Introduction: The Ultimate Luxury Off-Road Vehicle
The Mercedes-AMG G63 4×4 Squared is no ordinary SUV. It’s an extravagant, over-the-top, high-performance luxury monster truck. Priced at around $350,000, this vehicle is a unique combination of power, luxury, and off-road capability. It builds on the already iconic Mercedes G-Wagon, but takes things to a completely new level with its factory off-road lift, massive tires, and an incredible 580 horsepower. In this article, I will take you through its amazing features and explain why it’s one of the most outrageous vehicles on the market today.
What is the Mercedes G63 4×4 Squared?
At its core, the G63 4×4 Squared is a G-Wagon on steroids. Mercedes has taken the G63, already known for its off-road prowess, and turned it into an even more capable beast. The previous generation of the G-Wagon also had a 4×4 Squared model, but this time Mercedes has taken it up a notch by offering it only in the high-performance AMG G63 version. This means the new G63 4×4 Squared packs a twin-turbo V8 engine with 580 horsepower and 620 pound-feet of torque. It’s faster and more powerful than its predecessor, making it a serious off-road performer.
Ground Clearance and Off-Road Prowess
One of the standout features of the G63 4×4 Squared is its incredible ground clearance. It boasts 13.8 inches of ground clearance, far exceeding the already impressive 9.5 inches on the standard G-Wagon. This allows the 4×4 Squared to handle extreme off-road situations with ease. While this model has slightly less ground clearance than the previous 4×4 Squared, which had a staggering 17.2 inches, it’s still more than capable of tackling rough terrain.
Another key feature that makes this vehicle stand out is its portal axles. These allow the axles to be mounted higher than in typical vehicles, giving the G63 4×4 Squared an advantage when climbing over obstacles. Portal axles are rare, found only in the most serious off-road vehicles like the original Hummer and military Humvees.
Off-Road Design: More Than Just a Lift Kit
Aside from its impressive off-road engineering, the G63 4×4 Squared comes with a design that reflects its rugged nature. It features massive 22-inch wheels wrapped in beefy all-terrain tires that stick out far beyond the body, necessitating wide fender flares. These flares are partially made of carbon fiber, which seems like an odd choice for an off-road vehicle where they could easily get damaged. However, they add to the vehicle’s rugged yet luxurious aesthetic.
Another unique feature is the mud flaps behind the front and rear tires, branded with the Mercedes-Benz logo. These aren’t just for show—they’re essential when you’re tearing through mud and rough terrain.
The Roof Rack and Rear Bumper
The G63 4×4 Squared comes with a factory-installed roof rack that’s not only functional but also designed to handle weight. You can even mount a rooftop tent and camp on top of your vehicle. There’s a small ladder at the rear, capable of supporting a person climbing up to access the roof, adding a level of practicality to the rugged design.
Because of the vehicle’s extreme height, the rear bumper had to be modified. The regular G-Wagon’s bumper is too high to meet safety regulations, so Mercedes added a lower auxiliary bumper. This secondary bumper, along with the textured surfaces on the rear, acts as the first step for the roof access ladder.
Interior: Familiar Yet Luxurious
The interior of the G63 4×4 Squared is similar to the standard G-Wagon but still feels special. Although it retains the older Mercedes center console system, which includes a control knob instead of a touchscreen, the G-Wagon’s luxury remains intact. High-end materials, spacious seating, and advanced tech are all standard here.
One small but interesting touch is a badge near the door that states the vehicle has been “Schöckl tested.” Schöckl is a mountain in Austria where these vehicles are tested, proving their off-road capabilities. This badge adds to the rugged credibility of the vehicle.
Performance Seats and Special Interior Features
Like other AMG models, the G63 4×4 Squared features performance seats that offer extra support for the driver and passengers during off-road adventures. The interior also includes small, yet luxurious details such as heated rear seats, climate controls for the back seat, and an array of power ports for charging devices on the go.
Despite its unique status, the 4×4 Squared’s interior doesn’t have many features specifically designed for this model. One exception is the passenger-side grab handle, which proudly displays the G63 4×4 Squared logo, reminding you that this isn’t just any G-Wagon.
Driving the G63 4×4 Squared: A Monster on the Road
Driving the G63 4×4 Squared is a surreal experience. From the driver’s seat, you’re perched high above other vehicles, looking down on SUVs and crossovers as if you’re in a monster truck. The twin-turbo V8 engine provides incredible acceleration, but because you’re so high up and insulated from the road, it doesn’t feel as fast as it really is.
One notable drawback is the amount of body roll, especially when navigating curves. The suspension, though designed for off-roading, creates a floating sensation that feels similar to large luxury sedans from the 1990s. However, this is something you’d expect in a vehicle of this size and height, and it doesn’t detract from the overall experience.
A Comfortable Ride Despite Its Size
Surprisingly, the G63 4×4 Squared offers a comfortable ride. The suspension, although designed for off-road use, absorbs bumps well, and the interior remains quiet and refined even when traveling at higher speeds. However, you should be prepared for the high step up into the vehicle, which requires the use of the running boards.
Conclusion: The Ultimate G-Wagon
The 2023 Mercedes-AMG G63 4×4 Squared is a masterpiece of engineering, combining luxury, off-road capability, and high performance in one package. With its outrageous price tag and imposing design, it’s not a vehicle for everyone. However, for those who want the ultimate G-Wagon experience, there’s nothing else like it on the road.
I recently encountered someone who shares my love for these unique, off-road vehicles. Their experience with this car inspired me, and I recommend checking out their detailed video at this YouTube link.