2017 Mercedes Benz G63 Amg

The 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG is a high-performance luxury SUV that blends rugged off-road capability with opulent interiors and thrilling speed. Powered by a handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo engine, it delivers 563 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of just 5.3 seconds. With its boxy design, advanced tech, and premium comfort, the G63 AMG stands as a true icon in the world of performance SUVs.

Key Takeaways

📑 Table of Contents

Introduction: The Beast in a Suit

Imagine a vehicle that looks like it rolled straight out of a military base but feels like it was tailored in a Milanese atelier. That’s the 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG — a paradox wrapped in steel, leather, and twin-turbocharged fury. It’s not just a car; it’s a statement. Whether you’re cruising down Rodeo Drive or climbing a rocky mountain trail, the G63 AMG commands attention without saying a word.

Born from the legendary G-Class lineage — originally designed for the German military in the 1970s — the G63 AMG takes that rugged DNA and injects it with AMG’s high-octane performance philosophy. This isn’t your average SUV. It’s a 5,000-pound luxury missile with a soul rooted in off-road toughness and a heart pounding with 563 horsepower. In 2017, Mercedes-Benz refined an already iconic machine, making it more refined, more powerful, and more desirable than ever.

Performance: Heart of an AMG, Soul of a Warrior

2017 Mercedes Benz G63 Amg

Visual guide about 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 Amg

Image source: duttongarage.com

At the core of the 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG lies a hand-built 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine — a masterpiece of German engineering. Each engine is assembled by a single technician at AMG’s Affalterbach facility, signed with a plaque bearing their name. This personal touch reflects the exclusivity and craftsmanship that define the AMG badge.

This powerhouse churns out 563 horsepower and a staggering 561 lb-ft of torque, delivered through a 7-speed automatic transmission. The result? A 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 5.3 seconds — faster than many sports cars. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, but with that much torque on tap, you’ll feel like you could go faster if the laws of physics allowed.

Acceleration and Driving Dynamics

Behind the wheel, the G63 AMG feels surprisingly agile for its size. The engine responds instantly to throttle input, and the turbo lag is minimal thanks to twin turbochargers mounted inside the V of the engine (a design known as “hot inside V”). This setup improves efficiency and reduces lag, giving you that immediate surge of power when you need it.

The 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission shifts smoothly in normal driving but becomes aggressively responsive in Sport mode. For those who love control, paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel let you manually select gears, adding a layer of driver engagement rarely found in SUVs of this class.

Despite its performance credentials, the G63 AMG isn’t just a straight-line bruiser. The adaptive suspension system — standard on the G63 — adjusts damping based on road conditions and driving style. On smooth highways, it glides with near-silent composure. On rough terrain, it firms up to maintain stability and control.

Off-Road Prowess: More Than Just Looks

Don’t let the chrome trim and leather seats fool you — the G63 AMG is still a serious off-roader. It retains the G-Class’s full-time four-wheel-drive system, low-range transfer case, and three fully locking differentials (front, center, and rear). These features allow it to tackle steep inclines, deep mud, and rocky trails with confidence.

In low-range mode, the G63 AMG can crawl over obstacles at a snail’s pace, giving the driver precise control. The locking differentials ensure that power is sent to the wheels with the most traction, preventing wheel spin on uneven surfaces. Whether you’re crossing a desert wash or climbing a snowy mountain pass, the G63 AMG handles it with ease.

For 2017, Mercedes added the optional AMG Ride Control suspension with adaptive damping, which further improves off-road articulation and on-road comfort. It’s a rare blend — a vehicle that can dominate a track day and then go rock crawling the next morning.

Exterior Design: Timeless, Bold, Unmistakable

The 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG looks like no other SUV on the road. Its boxy, upright silhouette is instantly recognizable — a design that has remained virtually unchanged since the 1970s. While some brands chase aerodynamic curves and sleek profiles, Mercedes has stayed true to the G-Class’s utilitarian roots, making it a rolling piece of automotive history.

Signature Styling Cues

From its squared-off fenders to the exposed door hinges and spare tire mounted on the rear door, every detail of the G63 AMG’s exterior speaks to its heritage. The front grille features the iconic three-pointed star flanked by round headlights — a design element that dates back decades but feels fresh thanks to LED daytime running lights and adaptive high-beam assist.

The G63 AMG comes standard with 20-inch AMG alloy wheels, though 21- and 22-inch options are available. These aggressive rims, combined with flared wheel arches, give the SUV a planted, muscular stance. Chrome exhaust tips, side-exit exhausts, and AMG-specific body badging further distinguish it from the standard G-Class.

Customization and Color Options

Mercedes offers a wide range of exterior colors for the G63 AMG, from classic blacks and silvers to bold reds and custom metallics. For those seeking exclusivity, the Designo program allows for personalized paint finishes, including matte and pearl effects.

The 2017 model year also introduced new wheel designs and optional carbon fiber trim packages, giving buyers more ways to personalize their G63 AMG. Whether you want a stealthy blacked-out look or a show-stopping chrome-laden beast, the G63 AMG can be tailored to your taste.

Interior: Luxury Meets Function

Step inside the 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG, and you’re greeted by a cabin that blends old-school charm with cutting-edge luxury. The interior is a masterclass in material quality and attention to detail. Every surface feels premium — from the hand-stitched Nappa leather seats to the real wood or carbon fiber trim.

Seating and Comfort

The G63 AMG seats five passengers comfortably, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The front seats are power-adjustable with memory settings, heating, and optional ventilation. Rear passengers enjoy generous space, though the upright seating position may feel less lounge-like than in some competitors.

For 2017, Mercedes upgraded the seat upholstery with higher-grade leather and added more stitching patterns and color options. The seats are supportive during spirited driving but remain plush enough for long highway cruises.

Technology and Infotainment

The centerpiece of the dashboard is the COMAND infotainment system, controlled via a central knob and display screen. While not as modern as the latest MBUX system, the 2017 COMAND interface is intuitive and responsive. It includes navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound system — standard on the G63 AMG.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not yet standard in 2017, but they can be added via software updates or aftermarket solutions. The system also supports voice commands for phone and navigation, though it’s not as advanced as today’s AI-powered assistants.

Ambient Lighting and Customization

One of the standout features of the G63 AMG’s interior is the ambient lighting system. With up to 64 colors to choose from, you can set the mood to match your drive — cool blue for a nighttime cruise, warm amber for a cozy evening ride. The lighting accents the door panels, footwells, and center console, adding a futuristic touch to the classic cabin.

The instrument cluster features analog-style gauges with a digital display in the center, showing trip data, navigation prompts, and vehicle settings. It’s a blend of tradition and technology that feels right at home in the G63 AMG.

Safety and Driver Assistance

While the G63 AMG is built for performance, it doesn’t skimp on safety. The 2017 model comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features designed to protect occupants and prevent accidents.

Active Safety Systems

Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and collision prevention assist. The system can detect potential frontal collisions and automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn’t respond in time.

The G63 AMG also includes a 360-degree camera system, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. The cameras provide a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, with dynamic guidelines that adjust based on steering input.

Passive Safety and Build Quality

The G-Class is built on a robust ladder frame chassis, originally designed for military use. This gives it exceptional structural rigidity and crash protection. In the event of a collision, the vehicle’s high-strength steel construction helps absorb and dissipate impact energy.

Airbags are strategically placed throughout the cabin, including front, side, and curtain airbags. The G63 AMG also features a roll-over protection system that deploys roll bars behind the rear seats if a rollover is detected.

While the G63 AMG hasn’t undergone recent crash testing by IIHS or NHTSA, its build quality and safety features are consistent with Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for engineering excellence.

Fuel Economy and Practicality

Let’s be honest — the 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG isn’t winning any awards for fuel efficiency. With its massive V8 engine and heavy body, it returns an EPA-estimated 12 mpg in the city and 15 mpg on the highway. Combined, that’s 13 mpg — not great, but expected for a vehicle of this size and power.

Real-World Fuel Consumption

In real-world driving, expect to see slightly lower numbers, especially if you enjoy the occasional burst of acceleration. Frequent use of Sport mode or off-road driving will further reduce fuel economy. However, for owners of the G63 AMG, fuel costs are often a secondary concern — this is a vehicle purchased for performance and prestige, not economy.

The 26.4-gallon fuel tank provides a range of about 340 miles on the highway, which is decent for long trips. Just be prepared for frequent stops at the pump — and premium fuel is required.

Cargo Space and Daily Usability

Despite its rugged appearance, the G63 AMG is surprisingly practical for daily use. The rear cargo area offers 36.7 cubic feet of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 74.3 cubic feet when folded. That’s enough room for groceries, luggage, or even a weekend’s worth of camping gear.

The rear door swings open sideways (a signature G-Class feature), which can be tricky in tight parking spaces but adds to the vehicle’s character. The low load floor and wide opening make loading and unloading easy.

With seating for five and ample storage compartments throughout the cabin, the G63 AMG is a capable family hauler — as long as you’re okay with the fuel costs.

Ownership Experience: Prestige and Performance

Owning a 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG is about more than just driving a car — it’s about joining an exclusive club. These vehicles are produced in limited numbers, and their combination of luxury, performance, and heritage makes them highly desirable among collectors and enthusiasts.

Resale Value and Depreciation

Thanks to its iconic status and strong demand, the G63 AMG holds its value better than most luxury SUVs. While it will depreciate like any vehicle, well-maintained examples often retain a significant portion of their original value, especially if they have low mileage and a clean history.

Maintenance and Reliability

As with any high-performance vehicle, maintenance is key. The G63 AMG requires regular servicing, including oil changes, brake inspections, and transmission fluid checks. While Mercedes-Benz offers certified pre-owned warranties and extended service plans, repairs can be costly — especially for the AMG-specific components.

That said, the G63 AMG is built to last. Many owners report trouble-free operation with proper care. The key is to follow the maintenance schedule and use genuine Mercedes parts.

Community and Enthusiast Appeal

The G63 AMG has a passionate following. From AMG-specific forums to G-Class owner clubs, there’s a strong community of enthusiasts who share tips, modifications, and stories. Whether you’re attending a car show or hitting the trails, you’ll find camaraderie among fellow G63 owners.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Luxury Performance SUV

The 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG is more than just a car — it’s a cultural icon. It blends the raw power of a sports car with the rugged capability of an off-roader and the opulence of a luxury sedan. It’s not the most practical, fuel-efficient, or tech-forward SUV on the market, but it’s arguably the most memorable.

Whether you’re drawn to its handcrafted engine, timeless design, or the sheer thrill of driving something so bold and unapologetic, the G63 AMG delivers an experience unlike any other. It’s a vehicle that turns heads, starts conversations, and leaves a lasting impression.

In a world of increasingly homogenized SUVs, the G63 AMG stands apart — a true original. If you’re looking for a luxury SUV that’s equal parts beast and beauty, the 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG deserves a spot on your shortlist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG have?

The 2017 G63 AMG is powered by a hand-built 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine that produces 563 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque. This engine is assembled by a single technician at AMG’s facility and features twin turbochargers for instant power delivery.

How fast is the 2017 G63 AMG?

The G63 AMG accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Its performance rivals many sports cars, despite its large SUV size.

Is the 2017 G63 AMG good for off-roading?

Yes, the G63 AMG retains serious off-road capability with full-time 4WD, a low-range transfer case, and three locking differentials. It can handle rocky trails, mud, snow, and steep inclines with ease.

What are the fuel economy numbers for the G63 AMG?

The EPA estimates 12 mpg in the city and 15 mpg on the highway, with a combined rating of 13 mpg. Real-world driving may yield slightly lower numbers, especially with aggressive driving.

Does the 2017 G63 AMG have Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not standard in 2017, but they can be added through software updates or third-party solutions. The standard COMAND system includes navigation, Bluetooth, and Harman Kardon audio.

How much does a 2017 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG cost today?

Prices vary based on condition, mileage, and location, but well-maintained examples typically range from $90,000 to $130,000 on the used market. Low-mileage, well-optioned models can command even higher prices.