–Christopher Little

Mercedes has confirmed, as expected, that the 2013 G63 AMG will be produced, planning its reveal at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show.  Unfortunately for Mercedes, this won’t be the only Super-SUV at the show.  Despite this, the new G63 AMG stands on its own with quite a resume.

Under the hood, the 5.5 liter V8 biturbo produces 544 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque, 44 more of each over the old G55 AMG.  This power increase enables the G63 to sprint from 0-60 in a mind-bending 5.3 seconds.  The new AMG Speedshift Plus 7 transmission has 3 settings, Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S), and Manual (M).  In “C” the transmission starts in 2nd gear and enables the G63’s new stop/start function.  In all, this leads to an estimated 13% decrease in fuel consumption. It will only take a few blasts in “S” or “M” to eliminate any of those savings.

Outside, the G63 gets all of the AMG visuals, including twin tailpipes, the “twin-blade” front grille, and red six-piston calipers chomping down on 15 inch front and 13 inch rear rotors.  Inside, a revised interior features the updated instrument cluster and entertainment screen found throughout all of Mercedes latest models.  A full line of Mercedes equipment will be standard, including Parktronic and Blind Spot Assist, preventing you from running over lesser vehicles.

The 2013 G63 AMG will be in US dealers in August.  No US pricing has been set, but word on the street points to a base price in the $180,000 range.

Also confirmed, but not for the US the 2013 G65 AMG will sport a 612 hp V12.  This ultra-exclusive and ultra-powerful SUV is sure to put a damper on Lamborghini’s parade in Beijing.  For the enthusiast, though, a brace of new Super-SUVs just means more fun, in more places, with more people.  Besides, those engines can find their way under different hoods.  I’m still hoping for a GL63 AMG.