The G wagon has a rich history. This was Mercedes answer for a utility vehicle for the military and civil duties. From 1999 to 2018 the generation was called W463 and this design did not changed much during that time. It’s a ladder frame chassis, boxy body design, solid axel, coil over suspension, with triple lockers. Just about the perfect combination for a capable off-road vehicle. There are very few vehicles made today that follow this formula as most have moved to independent suspension, or a different chassis construction, or more modern body lines. The newest G wagon’s (W465 from 2018 until today) have moved away from their winning formula in favor of wider, longer, heavier, independent suspension, and frankly more comfortable but a less capable design.
Because of this we opted for a W463 (2018). Within this generation there are a few engine options. We picked the AMG G63 which is a 5.5L V8 bi-turbo monster producing 563 HP, but if I could do it again we would go for a G550 which is a 4L V8 bi-turbo producing 450 HP. The big difference is that the G63 has more intercoolers in the front bumper making it much harder to fit it with aftermarket bumpers to support winches. In fact there is only one front bumper that fits the G63 and it is still in development from Jack Wagon. Another issue with the G63 compared to the G550 is the exhaust. The G63 has side pipes which most people love, but they hang low and in a location where they are very susceptible to hit rocks when off-road. The G550 has its exhaust tips under the chassis and thus is more protected. There is a solve for the G63 if you go with the MBRP high clearance exhaust kit.
The G63 will be a daily driver but it will see some light off-road time (mostly trails). As a daily driver it is fantastic IF you are looking for a retro ride. Its powerful, it has a nice interior, a good infotainment system with CarPlay, not too big, and easy to drive. With that said it does drive like a truck. With a body on frame, ladder chassis, and no air suspension it is not a soft couch. It’s a luxury truck through and through. When off-road it is extremely comfortable compared to hardcore off-roaders. So it’s exactly what we are looking for.
So the plan is keep it a great daily driver but make it even more capable mostly by giving it better clearance. So we will be removing the side steps in favor of rock sliders, install the MBRP high clearance exhaust, put on a transfer case skid plate, new wheels, a 2 inch lift kit, 33” tires, and if needed front and rear steel bumpers. Follow our journey as we change this mall crawler to a trail master.