2017 Mercedes-AMG G 63 and Mercedes-AMG G 65 Exclusive Editions

The next-generation Mercedes G-Class is on its way for 2018. It’s been a long time coming for the company’s resident off-roader, but after years of updates upon updates, the time has finally come for an all-new G-Class to break cover. But before that happens, the German automaker is going to milk the current G-Class for all of its worth. That includes heading to the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show with “Exclusive Editions” for both the Mercedes-AMG G 63 and the Mercedes-AMG G 65.

Now I know that these special editions can wear thin on people, especially if they’re done too often or for the wrong reasons. But I don’t think that’s the case here. I think that of all Mercedes-AMG models in the performance brand’s lineup today, these two titans deserve to have a fitting send-off before the next-gen models arrive in 2018. That’s a big reason why I’m actually looking forward to the AMG G 63 Exclusive Edition and the AMG G 65 Exclusive Editions. And for what they're worth, both literally and figuratively, so should you. The G-Class, after all, has been a stalwart of Mercedes’ lineup for almost 40 years and while it has received countless updates in the past, it’s rarely been given a next-generation treatment. Now that it’s on the precipice of getting one – arguably just the third time in its history – these Exclusive Editions of the AMG G 63 and G 65 are proper ways of giving the current G-Class the tributes it deserves.

Continue after the jump to read more about the Mercedes-AMG G 63 and Mercedes-AMG G 65 Exclusive Editions.

2017 Mercedes-AMG G 63 and Mercedes-AMG G 65 Exclusive Editions

Specifications

Make: Array
Model: 2017 Mercedes-AMG G 63 and Mercedes-AMG G 65 Exclusive Editions
Engine/Motor: V8
Horsepower: 537
Torque: 561
[do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

What makes the Mercedes-AMG G 63 and Mercedes-AMG G 65 Exclusive Edition Special?

You’re not going to confuse either of these two vehicles for being flashy the way the AMG GT R is flashy. In fact, the AMG G 63 and its big brother, the AMG G 65, are the farthest things you can compare to a dynamic sports car like the GT R. That said, the utilitarian aura of both AMG G-Class models doesn’t disqualify it from getting exterior and interior upgrades that can help justify their special edition billing.

The truth is that any car, not matter its appearance or stature, can get good enough upgrades to warrant their SE status. We see that in both these AMG units as the AMG G 63 and G 65 are the recipients of an exclusive Monza Grey Magno matte paint finish that are exclusive to, well, the Exclusive Edition models. More to that, both Exclusive Edition models also stand to get a new set of 21-inch alloy wheels with a five-twin-spoke matte black design.

There is a level of differentiation between the two models though in this regard. For example, those who opt for the AMG G 63 Exclusive Edition can get their wheels with a high-sheen finish whereas the AMG G 65 Exclusive Edition gets a more premium ceramic polished look to the wheels. The number of upgrades may be minimal relative to other special edition models we’ve seen, but there really isn’t a whole lot that Mercedes-AMG can do to either the AMG G 63 and AMG G 65 to make them look more like a proper SE. On their own, they’re special enough already.

Now as far as the interior is concerned, Mercedes-AMG did put in the work to dress up the SUV’s cabin. There’s two-tone leather on the instrument panel and the AMG seats. The opportunity to further personalize the upholstery is also available as Mercedes-AMG is offering six different shades to choose from. Likewise, the cabin of both AMG models also has generous helpings of carbon fiber or piano lacquer trim depending on what a customer wants. Last but not least are the AMG steering wheel, leather coverings on the grab handles, and red seat belts.

That’s the extent of goodies that are available to the Exclusive Editions of the Mercedes-AMG G 63 and the Mercedes-AMG G 65. Not surprisingly, neither of the two special edition models will get any engine upgrades. That may be a disappointing for some, but not to the extent of those who are perfectly fine getting the AMG G 63’s 5.5-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine that produces 537 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque. Those who opt to get the special edition AMG G 65 should also have no issues enjoying the massive 6.0-liter twin-turbo V-12 engine sitting underneath that hood. The V-12 is capable of releasing 604 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque.

Mercedes-AMG hasn’t said how many units of the AMG G 63 and AMG G 65 Exclusive Editions it plans to release. It did say that the AMG G 63 Exclusive Edition will retail for €163,125.20 ($194,540 based on current exchange rates) in its home market of Germany. Meanwhile, the bigger and more powerful AMG G 65 Exclusive Edition will come with a price of €287,658.70 ($343,000), making it the most expensive Mercedes model in the market today.