For those who think a regular G 63 AMG is too mainstream, Mercedes-Benz has launched a special edition G 63 AMG Edition 463 in India. Sporting a price tag of ‘just’ Rs 2.17 crore (ex-showroom, Pune), the Edition 463 is the third G-Wagen model to be launched here and features subtle cosmetic updates to give it a rugged look. While the G 63 AMG Crazy Colour is also a special edition model, the G 63 AMG Edition 463 is for those who prefer a relatively sober-looking vehicle.
The G 63 Edition 463 was introduced globally in 2015 as a commemoration of the G-Wagen’s 35th anniversary. For an added Rs 7 lakh over the regular G 63 AMG, the Edition 463 gets a decals package, forged 21-inch wheels and extra protection for the body, comprising of a chrome bumper guard and a stainless-steel under body guard. Inside, you get two-tone diamond-quilted leather seats – heated, ventilated and electrically adjustable. The dashboard is colour coordinated and gets carbon fibre inserts to give it a sporty touch.
Under the hood is the mighty bi-turbo V8 engine powertrain. Displacing 5.5-litre, this engine delivers 563bhp and 720Nm of torque, which makes the G 63 Edition 463 capable of hitting 100kmph from a standstill in just 5.4 seconds. It can continue upto 209kmph before hitting the electronic limiter. The engine is mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox, which sends power to all four wheels through a 4Matic system. For those who enjoy going off the beaten path, the G 63 AMG Edition 463 gets three electronic locking differentials, low range ratios and traction control system.
The G 63 AMG Edition 463 is the most expensive Mercedes-Benz SUV sold in the Indian market. As a petrol-powered special edition SUV, it competes against the likes of the Range Rover 5.0 V8 Autobiography, BMW X5 M and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo. In case the regular Autobiography isn’t exclusive enough, you can also opt for the long wheelbase version. All these SUVs produce in the north of 500bhp and offer the best of creature comforts.
For those who aren’t specific about getting an SUV, there are a slew of other options. Those who prefer the last word in luxury can go for the Mercedes-Benz Maybach S500. There are also a bunch of sporty saloons like the Porsche Panamera and the Maserati Quattroporte GTS. On the other hand, if you decide to go for a diesel SUV, there´s the Lexus LX and the Range Rover 4.4 SDV8. However, the widest range of options exists for those ready to go for a sports car - the Nissan GT-R, Jaguar F-Type, Porsche 911, Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster, Maserati GranCabrio, Mercedes-Benz AMG GT and BMW’s technological marvel – the BMW i8.