Mercedes-Benz G-Class W463

The G class in brief

The G class was created as a true off-roader: a sturdy frame, permanent four-wheel drive, a low-range gearbox and three differential locks. Over time, it has become a luxury car, but its off-road capabilities remain among the best in the segment.

In the used market, the G class is valued for its distinctive image, longevity and the fact that it holds its value exceptionally well. On the other hand, it's a heavy car with high fuel consumption, and its maintenance and spare parts are expensive.

Old vs new W463

The old W463 generation (1990–2018) was continually updated: in 2012 it received a new dashboard and LED daytime running lights, later new engines. It has solid axles front and rear, so it excels off-road, but is less comfortable and less precise to drive on the highway.

New generation (from 2018) looks very similar, but is wider, roomier and slightly lighter. At the front, it features an independent suspension, making it drive more comfortably and stably, while the interior with large screens is fully modern. The 2024 facelift gained a mild-hybrid system, and an electric version also became available.

For daily driving and long journeys, most buyers are better off choosing the new generation. The older W463 is cheaper, simpler and appeals to classic off-roader enthusiasts, but its age means more issues with rust and electronics.

Engines and transmissions

In later years, the older W463 is most commonly found with the G 350 d (3.0-litre V6 diesel, around 211–245hp), G 500 (5.0 or 5.5-litre V8, from 2015 – 4.0-litre V8 with twin turbos) and G 63 AMG (5.5-litre V8, around 544–571hp). The rare G 65 AMG has a 6.0-litre V12 engine. Older models might have the G 300 CDI, G 320 CDI and G 55 AMG.

In the new generation, the G 350 d and G 400 d have a 2.9-litre inline six-cylinder diesel (around 286 and 330hp), the G 500 has a 4.0-litre V8 with twin turbos (around 422hp), and the Mercedes-AMG G 63 has around 585hp. Post-2024 facelift, the G 450 d is offered, and the G 500 gets a six-cylinder petrol engine with a mild-hybrid system.

All G-Class versions come with an automatic transmission: the older W463 has 5 or 7 speeds, the new one has a 9-speed 9G-TRONIC. Low-range gearing and diff locks are standard across the board.

What to check when buying a used G-Class

Thoroughly check older W463 models for rust: door sills, windscreen frame, sills, frame, and underbody. Press all three differential lock buttons — the locks should engage, and no error messages should appear on the instrument cluster.

Inspect the underside for off-road damage: bent skid plates, damaged axles, and suspension components. In high-performance G 63 and G 65 models, check the brakes, tyres, and automatic transmission operation, as these versions are often driven aggressively.

Since the G-Class is often imported from other countries, it's crucial to check the history: mileage according to service records, previous accidents, and whether the car meets European specifications. Also, ask if the engine power has been increased.

Versions

The G-Class specification primarily depends on the engine version and additional packages (e.g., AMG Line, Exclusive, G manufaktur). We list the versions most commonly found in Europe.

Comparison of new-generation (from 2018) versions

For most buyers, the best choice is the G 400 d: it's powerful enough, significantly more economical than the petrol versions, and in demand in the market. The G 63 is worth considering when power and looks are more important than running costs.

Frequently asked questions