Just in case you were inclined to think of the G63 AMG 6x6 as a one off concept, Mercedes-Benz has released official specifications.
The monstrous G63 6x6 actually utilizes a host of parts from the "pedestrian" G63 and the entire finished product comes almost entirely from series
production units. The engine is unchanged and is a 5.5-liter bi-turbo V-8 that produces 544 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque.
The G63's engine is mated to the same awkwardly named "AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC" automatic transmission as the normal G63. The 7G has three drive
modes: Manual, Sport, and "Controlled Efficiency". Interestingly, the rear twin-axle drive system actually comes from a modified G-wagen used by the
Australian (not Austrian) army.
To increase clearance, increase durability, and accommodate the SUV crushing 37" tires, AMG developed a "portal" axle system that actually allows the
wheels to mount significantly below the centerline of the axle. The ground clearance increases from 8.26-18.1 inches and the submersion depth increases
from 23.6-39.3 inches. So this monster can ford (no pun intended) over 3 feet of standing water!
To keep all of that rubber hooked up and handling in any condition, AMG fitted the 6x6 with no less than five mechanically locking differentials,
electronically controlled through three differential lock switches located in the cabin. The system doesn't require low-range-only operation. To keep any
semblance of handling, considering the wheelbase of 13.7 feet, engineers made the torque split 30-40-30 between the front axle and the rear axles.
Although "Controlled Efficiency" mode is present, the reality is, extra weight means less mileage. Therefore, instead of swapping out the entire fuel
system, the engineers fitted the stock G63 25.3 gallon tank and then added an auxiliary 16.3 gallon tank as well. The overall mileage isn't specifically
noted, and the EPA probably won't test it any time soon. Trust us: It's going to be atrocious.
Finally, while the outside is big, brutish, and fully capable of dragging a cruise ship across the African desert if you so choose, the inside is an
upgraded version of the already extremely opulent and upscale interior, although, the bamboo-lined pickup bed seems to stretch the boundaries of
practicality.
While the specifications have now officially been released, and two development units have been produced in Graz, Austria; According to Mercedes, the
response to these two prototypes will determine the small-series production future of this 6-wheeled pre/post apocalyptic monster.
