G63 the AMG to want

STATUS: ULTIMATELY POINTLESS AS IT WILL LIKELY NEVER GO OFF-ROAD

- Charl Bosch

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or simply the G-Wagon, has been in production since 1979 and in that time has become the most sought-after if not possibly the most aspirational three-pointed star model on sale today.

Its rise to becoming the Benz to have, arguably more so than an S-Class, is well documented: a vehicle devised for the military that quickly became a status symbol not even its equally iconic sedan sibling could match.

Similar in concept to the Porsche 911, each generation has been more evolutionary than revolutionary as evident by how little it's boxy exterior has changed.

Carefully refined over each of the four generations, the shipping container aesthetic hasn't seen its appeal diminish. The same goes for the interior, which has been carefully revised and modernised instead of being completely redesigned.

The latest evolution sees the arrival of electrification, not only in the guise of the controversial all-electric G580, but also for the flagship G63. The G63 still makes the biggest statement both image-wise, plus its obscene R4 458 731 sans options price tag.

Still as capable as ever with low range and three locking differentials neither likely to be ever used in conjunction with the road-biased 22-inch wheels - the arrival of the G63 for a seven-day stay also came with a question.

Now that the 48 volt mild-hybrid EQ Boost system is included, could it still be the ultimate G, versus the G580?