Mercedes Benz India Limited (MBIL) would be launching the G63 on February 19 in the auto market. The new model will be replacing the previous competent G-Class Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), the G55. The G63 has already been witnessed at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show. Barring a few external enhancements, a major upgrade would be seen in the terms of technology.
On the outside, the G63 has a deeper front bumper with larger air ducts and 20-inch wheels. Side mounted exhausts are present below the rear door, just as in the G55. Power in the new G63 has been bumped up by 43 bhp, which has a 543 bhp V8 engine. The engine would be mated to an AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-tronic gearbox. Reportedly, it will be assimilated with brake energy recuperation system, helping the vehicle in utilising spent energy, which in turn results in a higher fuel economy than the G63. Stop-start technology has also been incorporated in the G63. A revised instrument pack from the third generation M-class, along with a colour monitor and Mercedes’ modern Command System are also fitted in this powerful SUV. Apart from technological changes, on the inside, the G63 is lined with luxurious leather upholstery all around, giving it an ultra-premium feel.
A trio of differential locks provides power to all the four wheels of this SUV, which gives high amount of traction on tough terrain. MBIL's hi-tech Distronic radar-controlled cruise control is helpful on all types of roads. Blind Spot Assist has also been provided, in addition to the parking aid Partktronic, which has a camera for reverse viewing. Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which was already present in the G55, now gets Trailer Stability Assist and a hill hold function.
The G-Wagon has been one of the longest surviving SUV series in the world, which has been around for 33 years. The boxy styling of this vehicle has also not changed much over the years. It has been a very capable off-road vehicle right from the beginning. However, in addition to its off-road performance, it is also a swift vehicle, which can accelerate from rest to 100 kmph in just 5.3 seconds.
At a price of Rs. 1.55 crore, the G63 is definitely not a very affordable proposition. But it can be said that the technology in the new G63 takes off-roading credentials to an entirely new level. However, one wishes that styling on the G63 could be made more muscular, synonymous with an SUV of this stature.
