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2025 Mercedes-AMG G 63: Understanding the Cult of GELÄNDEWAGEN

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Few automobiles boast an unbreakable reputation as enduringly as the G-Wagon does, a reputation so robust that it fosters a devoted fanbase that spans across generations.

For a week, we had the opportunity to test drive a 2025 Mercedes-AMG G 63. We’re no strangers to its striking exterior design, enduring style, and the rich background of its military transport origins. We put it through its paces on the freeways of Orange County, city streets of Los Angeles, and even took it off-road on a dirt track. However, we can’t pretend to have owned one or fully capture the sense of belonging to a devoted fanbase for this iconic vehicle.

To determine this, we sought opinions from several acquaintances who either presently possess or have previously owned one, focusing on three key aspects of G-Wagon ownership: aesthetics, practicality, and driving experience. Their insights steered our review process, allowing us to express our impressions of the 2025 model in accordance with their guidance. Is this latest version merely a contemporary reinterpretation of what made the G-class iconic, or does it significantly deviate from its original form?

The Design








“The distinctive boxy layout of the G-Wagon is a defining feature of the G-Class. In my opinion, its design focuses more on practicality and roominess rather than streamlining for aerodynamics.” – Tim Mar, Social Media Manager at Hoonigan, 2000 Mercedes-Benz G 500.

One compelling factor that draws many consumers to the G-Wagon is its irresistible allure, its iconic design, and a silhouette that leaves an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of the automobile industry.

With the W465 model, there hasn’t been a significant change. The 2025 Mercedes-AMG G 63 retains its boxy shape, sharp fenders, and military-inspired design elements, along with its simple arrangement of lights and signals. Fortunately, it remains mostly the same as its earlier versions, but everything appears larger and more robust.

The structure of this model is owed to equal dimensions in width and height, approximately 6.5 feet each. The most significant difference compared to its predecessors lies in its length – the 2025 version, featuring a spare tire compartment at the back, stretches just over 16 feet long, about a foot longer than Tim’s W461. On the road and within, this additional length is noticeable but some occupants during our test drive didn’t find the extra foot particularly obvious inside the cabin. Over time, design aspects of the Geländewagen are evolving towards a bolder, more spacious appearance. This can be seen in elements like the larger 20-inch wheels, expansive quad side exhaust pipes, an enlarged front grille and others.

Despite the changes, it’s pleasing to confirm that the distinctive aesthetics of the G-Wagon remain unaltered in the latest models. The visual character that you recognize and appreciate is still very much present.

The Functionality







As a professional videographer like Nick Sims, I rely on my 2003 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG for my daily needs and coffee runs. Its functionality is top-notch, with ample room in the back for all my camera gear. With its off-road capabilities, I’m excited to take it on adventurous excursions – after all, it’s known as the off-road king!

We aimed to put the G-Wagon to its intended purpose – practicality. It turned out that our friends all bought their used G-classes when they required its towing capacity. Interestingly, they found their counterparts in their sports cars and sedans long ago. Fortunately, the 2025 G 63 lived up to expectations, for the most part.

The seating area comfortably accommodates four people, with additional passengers enjoying a high level of luxury, featuring heated seats, individual controls, and even massage functions in the front. The trunk at the rear offers ample space for storage, primarily in a vertical, tall shape rather than a conventional boxy one. This design is due to the seating arrangement and the G-class’s characteristic square look. Fold down the rear seats (regrettably they don’t go completely flat) and you’ll gain nearly 70 cubic feet of storage space.

With space for four, more passengers can enjoy a luxurious ride with heated seats, individual controls, and massage functions in the front. The trunk at the back offers decent vertical storage for groceries and luggage, but it’s not as boxy as you might expect due to seating arrangement and the G-class’s signature square design. Unfortunately, the rear seats don’t fold completely flat, but when folded down, you’ll have nearly 70 cubic feet of storage space.

Additionally, remember that the versatility of your unconventional cargo is limitless due to its square shape. This means you can carry skis, golf bags, hockey sticks, and more – anything that fits, provided your front passengers are comfortable with some slight adjustments. In fact, our friend managed to effortlessly transport an entire Harvey Probber loveseat, after it was carefully divided into two manageable pieces.

Two times out of two – you may yet persuade your household companion that the G-class model remains exceptional for fetching children from soccer games. However, from this point onwards, things are set to shift for the upcoming model.

The Drive






Nick Sisombath, the founder of Collegium, describes his 2004 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG as follows: “This vehicle has a unique background – it was initially designed for military use. From the robust steel door handles to the sturdy front passenger grip bar, everything radiates toughness. You can both hear and feel every bump on the road, which is exactly what you expect from such a car, and I must say, I truly enjoy this raw driving experience.

Let’s tackle the main point directly – the new 2025 AMG G 63 has been confirmed as a hybrid vehicle. The traditional 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine now works with an integrated 48-volt electric motor. This combination results in a total power output of 577 horsepower and a massive 627 lb-ft of torque. Contrary to popular belief, this hybrid setup is designed primarily to boost performance rather than improve fuel efficiency.

In simpler terms, they argued that they valued the naturally-aspirated engines in the G-class more than supercharged ones, choosing purity over power enhancements. Given this preference, what could be said about modern technology like a hybrid electric motor? If boosting is already seen as a concession, does it retain its “military” and raw feel, or does the luxury and electricity give it an entirely new personality?

The electric motor operates efficiently at lower engine revolutions per minute (RPMs), delivering a swift and intentional push as soon as the foot touches the pedal. This system, surprisingly subtle – we managed to keep it a secret that it’s hybrid until people noticed – is a definite plus. There’s no hint of an electric vehicle (EV) here, and the thunderous roar of a twin-turbo V8 engine remains undiminished in the overall soundscape. In the end, who cares where the 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque originate from? The power feels phenomenal either way.

Regarding durability, it’s unfortunate to note that the ruggedness has been significantly diminished in the 2025 model. This isn’t a reflection of our pristine test car with less than 2000 miles compared to some friends’ 20-year-old versions; rather, it’s because the luxury aspects of a G-Wagon have become more prominent than ever. Features like premium leather accents, exceptional ride quality, top-tier audio systems, easily maneuverable steering wheels, advanced digital infotainment screens that resemble those from “Minority Report”, and even massaging seats, while luxurious, no longer convey the rugged image of a G-Wagon.

Traditionally, there’s been a perception about the G-Wagon, that it would only venture off-road on the lawn at the equestrian club. In truth, the newer models align well with this image.

Despite some modern enhancements, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG G 63 remains true to its classic character, offering both refinement and a familiar feel. To those yearning for a G-class vehicle, it’s not likely to disappoint. Disregarding the engine, luxury interior, boxy design, practical daily use, and robust door closures – aspects that truly define this vehicle – the core elements that make the GELÄNDEWAGEN cult so enduring remain unchanged.

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2025-05-20 17:26

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