First pics: new Mercedes G63 AMG

Mercedes has officially revealed the first pictures of the new G63 AMG. And the headline news is that it is 13 per cent more efficient than its predecessor.

Apparently, the new G63 gets a spray-controlled direct injection system and a ‘controlled efficiency' mode for the seven-speed gearbox that includes start/stop. Start/stop! In an AMG! What we would have given to be a fly on the wall during the conversation between Merc's efficiency bods and AMG engineers...

But don't start waiting for the apocalypse anytime soon: a world with an efficient Mercedes AMG doesn't spell doom. It might be exactly 2.7mpg better on fuel than the old G55, but it's also got 37hp more, and that 544hp twin-turbo V8 means the G63 AMG will sprint from 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 130mph. That's more like it.

The suspension and dampers have been revised to improve noise, vibration and harshness levels, including optimised bearings for the gearbox, transfer case and engine. The ESP has been readjusted, it gets 20in light alloy wheels and AMG high performance brakes and lots of AMG trinketry inside.

UK prices have yet to be confirmed, but it'll retail for €137,504 when it launches in June this year. And although we won't get the G65 in the UK, don't feel too shortchanged. Yes, the 65's V12 produces 612hp, but the 0-62mph dash is only a tenth of a second quicker at 5.3 secs. And that car will cost €264,180.