If you ever thought that the 507hp Mercedes-Benz G 55 AMG was as fast as the G-Wagen could get you may have to reset your frame of reference, as those crazy Germans have slotted its latest biturbo V8 engine under the square-cut bonnet of the G-Class, creating the G 63 AMG.
It puts out 544hp and 760Nm of torque, accelerates to 100km/h from rest in just 5.4 seconds and tops out (an electronically limited) 210km/h. Despite all that Mercedes has the gall to talk about this car's efficiency. Figures of 322g/km and 13.8 litres/100km (20.4mpg) aren't exactly eco-friendly, though they are considerably better than the car the G 63 AMG supersedes. It's thanks in part to stop-start and the new AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic automatic transmission.
A deep new front bumper and grille have been designed specifically for this model, and they integrate with the AMG-specific flared wheelarches and stainless steel running boards. Also new are a set of 20-inch AMG alloys finished in titanium grey. Optionally these can be painted matt black with polished rims. The monstrous brake callipers are finished in red or silver.
Inside, the G 63 AMG benefits from the recent updates to the whole G-Class range, including new instrumentation and infotainment systems. This version comes with 'designo' leather upholstery with ruffled leather door panelling.
As ever the G-Class remains a special order model for the Irish market.