Mercedes-AMG G63 4x4² review: what the car critics say 

Mercedes has overhauled the G63 to increase its luxury SUV’s off-road prowess, said Robb Report. New portal axles give a ground clearance of 351mm, meaning this “green monster” can climb a 45° incline and wade through a metre of water. The extra height also allows for huge 22-inch wheels with knobbled tyres for plenty of grip, and the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine is cranked up to 577bhp.

It may be daunting, but when you get used to its sheer size, this truly luxurious 4x4 is pretty straightforward and “hugely exciting” to drive, said Autocar. The added ride height means visibility, at least up front, is excellent. Body roll is well controlled and front grip is very strong. It can do 0-62mph in 5secs with a top speed of 131mph. Off-road it feels invincible, with deep ruts absorbed with authority.

Let’s face it: this vehicle is “utterly ridiculous, and hugely difficult to justify” – but that doesn’t make “this extrovert off-roader any less desirable”, said The Daily Telegraph. Nor will the fact that relatively few models are being built. Doing just 13.5mpg, it’s far from green, except in hue (if you choose it; there are 40 colours available). However, rest assured there’s a fully electric G-Class in the works, the EQG, due next year. Price: about £250,000.

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