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The Geneva Motor Show will see PEUGEOT raise the bar in the D-class segment with the world reveal of its all-new 508, sporting a radical new aerodynamic design.

Breaking the mould of the traditional, four door saloon silhouette this exciting new model combines a bold new low coupé design with the enhanced practicality of five doors.

Its striking new look takes inspiration from a sports coupé, with sharp side window design, elegant frameless doors and alloy wheels designed to fill the wheel arch housings. It showcases a beautifully integrated rear hatch, offering a significantly larger aperture to the generous 487-litre boot whilst carrying all the hallmark features of the latest PEUGEOT vehicles, including the full LED ‘claw-effect’ rear lights.

With its sharp exterior design, beautifully appointed, premium interior and the very latest generation of the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®, the all-new PEUGEOT 508 delivers a whole new driving experience to D-segment car buyers.

Inside, it contains the three main characteristics of the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®, including the compact, full grain leather trimmed steering wheel, a large 10-inch capacitive touchscreen angled towards the driver and a 12.3-inch head-up digital instrument panel. It also features i-Cockpit® Amplify, which enables the driver to choose between two levels of ambience – “Boost” and “Relax”.

Available with a range of six highly efficient petrol and diesel engine / transmission combinations, covering 130 to 225hp, the all-new PEUGEOT 508 offers an exceptional driving experience.

The new flagship model comes equipped with class-leading levels of advanced driver assistance systems, including a new night vision system, which is new to the segment and uses an infrared camera with the ability to detect pedestrians at night and in cases of reduced visibility. 

Jean-Philippe Imparato, CEO of PEUGEOT, said: “The all-new PEUGEOT 508 is finally here. After the success of our latest high profile launches and our SUV offensive with the multi-award winning PEUGEOT 2008 SUV, 3008 SUV and all-new 5008 SUV, with the all-new PEUGEOT 508 we carry the exact same ambition; to shake up the market with an outstanding new car that can compete with the best. And, for the D segment, we are talking about the best car manufacturers in the world. The all-new PEUGEOT 508 is a perfect example of the ambition that we embody in everything that we do; continuing to establish PEUGEOT as the best ‘high-end generalist’ car manufacturer in the market.”

The all-new PEUGEOT 508 will be available to order from summer 2018.

Volvo Cars, the premium car maker, today revealed the new V60 five-door, mid-size premium estate, underlining the Swedish company's position as a maker of cars that combine good looks with everyday practicality. 

The car was launched in its natural habitat – the driveway of a family home in Stockholm – highlighting Volvo Cars' pedigree in family estates and pinpointing how the V60's versatile design caters to the diverse needs and realities of modern family life. 

Few car makers can match Volvo Cars' history and credibility in making well-designed, practical and versatile estate cars. 

"The family estate driver is an important customer for our business and has been for generations," said Håkan Samuelsson, President and CEO of Volvo Cars. "The new V60 honours that tradition, but also takes it much further." 

The new V60 shares Volvo Cars' Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with the award-winning new XC60 and three top-of-the-line 90 series cars, which have been the collective force behind the company's record-breaking global sales performance in recent years. 

The SPA-based V60 introduces a new standard to the mid-size premium estate segment with a luxurious interior, increased levels of space, advanced connectivity, and Volvo Cars' latest driver-support systems and other safety technology.

"The V60 really is the central point of the Volvo brand," said Robin Page, Senior Vice President Design at Volvo Cars. "It's refined, has a beautiful proportion and stance, yet delivers on practicality and versatility."

In a first for the segment, customers can access the new V60 via Volvo Cars' new premium subscription service, Care by Volvo*, which offers car access via a monthly flat-fee subscription rather than ownership. Care by Volvo makes having a car as transparent, easy and hassle free as having a mobile phone. 

Reflecting Volvo Cars' industry-first announcement to electrify all new cars from 2019, the V60 comes with two plug-in hybrid powertrain options: the new T6 Twin Engine AWD petrol plug-in hybrid that generates a combined 340 hp, or the T8 Twin Engine AWD petrol plug-in hybrid that delivers 390 hp. 

The regular petrol choice includes T5 or T6 powertrains. Drivers who prefer diesel can select D3 or D4 engines. 

The new V60 reinforces Volvo Cars' standing as the industry leader in safety, with a comprehensive list of safety features that come as standard, including advanced driver-support systems known from the 90 series and XC60, making the new V60 one of the safest cars on the road. 

The City Safety with Autobrake technology uses automatic braking and detection systems to assist the driver in avoiding potential collisions, and is the only system on the market to recognise pedestrians, cyclists and large animals. In a world first, City Safety now also engages autobraking to mitigate oncoming collisions. 

The Pilot Assist system – which supports the driver with steering, acceleration and braking on well-marked roads up to 80 mph – has been upgraded with improved cornering performance. The V60 also includes Run-off Road Mitigation, Oncoming Lane Mitigation and other steering-assistance systems. The optional Cross Traffic Alert with autobrake further improves safety for people inside and outside the car. 

Volvo Cars' Sensus infotainment system is fully compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and 4G, and keeps drivers connected at all times. The system is controlled via an intuitive tablet-style touch screen that combines car functions, navigation, connected services and entertainment apps.

UK prices for the V60 will start at £31,810 on the road (full pricing and specification details will be announced shortly). First customer deliveries are expected in Q3 2018.

Mladá Boleslav, 15 February 2018 – ŠKODA AUTO presents the new top version of the ŠKODA KODIAQ at the International Motor Show 2018 in Geneva. The L&K equipment line is named after the company's founders Laurin and Klement. Among other things, a chrome grille, 19-inch alloy wheels and modified front and rear bumpers round off its stylish appearance. The interior boasts leather upholstery and piano-black decorative trim. Dynamic petrol and diesel engines, as well as front or 4×4 drive, ensure powerful propulsion.

Powerful engines, advanced 4 × 4 drive, versatile suspension control
The launch of the ŠKODA KODIAQ L&K brings with it a new engine range for the brand's large SUV. The range now includes a 1.5-liter TSI engine providing 150 hp, and the 2.0 TSI engine’s output has increased from 180 hp to 190 hp. The new petrol drivetrains feature particulate filters to reduce particulate emissions. This will be available for all equipment versions of the ŠKODA KODIAQ in the future. The latest generation 7-speed DSG for petrol engines and the 2.0 TDI engine with 150 hp are also making their debut. Another 2.0 TDI with 190 hp completes the engine range. The two strongest engines come with 4×4 drive as standard, and is available as an option for the other two. The all-wheel-drive variants of the ŠKODA KODIAQ L&K also have Adaptive Chassis Control DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control) as an option. 

Plenty of room for style, comfort and elegance
The ŠKODA KODIAQ L&K complements the outstanding qualities of the large SUV in terms of versatility and space with an elegantly stylish touch. It comes with 19-inch ‘Sirius’ alloy wheels, full LED headlights, a grille with vertical slats and chrome trim as standard. The front wings feature badges with the words ‘Laurin & Klement’.

The appearance of the interior is enhanced with a three-spoke multifunction leather steering wheel, optionally available in black or beige leather trim. A subtle ‘Laurin & Klement’ logo can be found on the seats as well as on the trim strips of the instrument panel, which features black piano lacquer accents. The logo can also be seen on the home screen of the infotainment system. The standard equipment also includes an electrically adjustable driver's seat including memory function, door sills, which bear the ‘KODIAQ’ model logo, aluminium pedals, textile floor mats, a rain sensor, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, ambient lighting and the CANTON sound system.

*UK availability and specification still to be confirmed

Even finer, even more exclusive – The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class in a new look

Stuttgart/Geneva. Mercedes-Maybach stands for the ultimate in exclusivity and individuality. The luxury brand combines the perfection of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class with the exclusivity of Maybach. Now the top model from Mercedes-Benz is even more refined. A new radiator grille, optional two-tone paintwork and new exclusive colour combinations in the interior ensure an even more majestic look. The world premiere is at the Geneva Motor Show (6.3. to 18.3.2018), and it will go on sale in April 2018.

A reinterpretation of the Mercedes-Maybach radiator grille with its fine, vertical struts accentuates the front end. The grille was inspired by a pinstriped suit. It celebrated its world premiere in the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6, the exclusive coupé study which thrilled connoisseurs and fans of the brand in 2016.

The two-tone exterior paint finish is also a classic Mercedes-Maybach theme. In future there will be nine different colour combinations available on request. The double clear coat is available as a further new option for all dark colours.
It creates a brilliant surface finish with a piano lacquer effect and a special impression of depth. The second bodywork clear coat, including intermediate sanding, is intricately applied by hand in the Maybach Manufaktur by specially trained varnishers.

The exterior look of the top model is rounded off by a new luxury 20-inch multi-spoke wheel. There are also three exclusive 20-inch wheels to choose from for the Mercedes-Maybach, including the wheel with a 20-hole design familiar from the Mercedes-Maybach S-Cabriolet.

Two new exclusive colour combinations are offered in the interior: armagnac brown/black and savanna beige/black. The black Maybach Exclusive nappa leather upholstery appointments can also be ordered with a choice of copper-, gold- or platinum-coloured contrasting topstitching. Also new in the range are trim inserts in designo flowing lines Magnolia.*

*not available in the UK

Overview of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class data

(only S 650 available in the UK)

With a length of 5462 mm and a wheelbase of 3365 mm, the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz model range exceeds the long-wheelbase S-Class Saloon by 20 cm in both dimensions. Rear passengers benefit from this increased size, as well as from standard equipment that includes Executive seats on both left and right and other exclusive details such as innovative voice amplification. The huge success of the Mercedes-Maybach speaks volumes: since the market launch of the Maybach in February 2015 over 25,000 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class models have already been delivered to customers. In 2017, too, more than 1 in 10 S-Class models sold was a Mercedes-Maybach. The main markets are China, Russia and the USA.

Affalterbach. With the new Mercedes-AMG G 63 (combined fuel consumption: 13.2 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 299 g/km), the Mercedes-AMG G-Class has undergone the greatest change in its history – while remaining true to its well-proven virtues. The G 63 underpins its unique position among performance off-road vehicles with the powerful drive system, the newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension, the AMG-specific transmission modes and the new interior with optimal widescreen cockpit. The basis for the hallmark AMG Driving Performance both on and off metalled roads is provided by the 430 kW (585 hp) 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, the rear-biased all-wheel drive (40:60) with three differential locks, the extremely fast-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission, the double wishbone independent front suspension and the adaptive adjustable damping. The reinterpretation of the unmistakable design creates strong highlights with the AMG-specific radiator grille, flared wheel arches, striking side pipes on the exhaust system and the up to 22-inch wheels.

"The new AMG G 63 brings driving performance to the segment of unadulterated off-road vehicles in unexpected form. It was important for us to tie in with the original character on account of the cult status the G 63 enjoys with our customers and fans. The vehicle has nevertheless reached a completely new dimension in terms of technology with the 4.0‑litre V8 biturbo engine as well as in combination with the off-road characteristics, the agility and the vehicle dynamics achieved", explains Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes‑AMG GmbH. "This applies to the entire G‑C lass model series. Mercedes-AMG is responsible for their suspension and chassis development as well as V8 competence."

Proven to be powerful: the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine

The AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine now also replaces the previous 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine in the G 63. It generates 430 kW (585 hp) in this model, and delivers a maximum torque of 850 Nm. This is available across a wide rev range between 2.500 and 3.500 rpm, and provides a sense of effortless superiority. It absolves a sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. This dynamic performance is maintained up to the limited maximum speed of 220 km/h, or 240 km/h with the AMG Driver‘s package.

The two turbochargers are not positioned on the outside of the cylinder banks, but inside the cylinder "V". Advantages: a compact engine design, spontaneous response of the turbochargers and low exhaust emissions thanks to optimal airflow to the near-engine catalysts. The eight-cylinder delivers its power with muscular torque in all engine speed ranges, combined with maximum efficiency for low fuel consumption and emission figures.

Two twin scroll turbochargers are used for optimal response. The housing is divided into two parallel flow channels. Combined with two separate exhaust ducts in the exhaust manifold, this makes it possible to control the exhaust gases on the turbine wheel separately. The exhaust gas from the first and fourth cylinders of the cylinder bank is fed into one duct, that from the second and third cylinders to the other duct. The aim is to prevent the individual cylinders from having mutually adverse effects on the gas cycle. This reduces the exhaust gas back pressure and improves gas exchange. The results are increased output by virtue of improved cylinder charging with fresh mixture, more torque at low revs and very fast response times.

Other engine features include modified pistons, optimised intercooling and extensive software upgrades. Spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, the all-aluminium crankcase, the four-valve per cylinder design with camshaft adjustment, air-water intercooling, alternator management, the ECO start/stop function and the gliding mode have all been retained.

AMG Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation system

For more efficiency, Mercedes-AMG has equipped the V8 engine in the G 63 with the AMG Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation system. In the partial-load range, cylinders two, three, five and eight are deactivated, which significantly lowers the fuel consumption. The combined fuel consumption is 13.2 l/100 km, and the combined CO2 emissions 299 g/km.

When the driver has selected the "Comfort" transmission driving mode, the cylinder deactivation system is available in the wide engine speed range from 1000 to 3250 rpm. The AMG main menu on the instrument cluster informs the driver whether the cylinder deactivation system is in use and whether the engine is presently operating in the partial or full-load range. The transition from four to eight-cylinder operation is fast and imperceptible, so that the passengers do not experience any loss of comfort whatsoever.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission with shorter shift times

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission is used in the G 63. This has a model-specific software application to achieve very short shift times. The multiple downshift function allows more spontaneous bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in "Sport" and "Sport Plus" transmission modes makes for an even more emotional driving experience. Defined engine manipulation makes for even faster gear changes.

The wide ratio spread allows a choice of a very sporty or a very comfortable and efficient driving experience. In all transmission modes the G 63 moves off in first gear so as to ensure a dynamic sprint from a standstill whenever required. The DIRECT SELECT lever has been repositioned as a steering column stalk.

"Manual" mode can be selected using a separate switch. The gear changes are based on the selected transmission mode, and the driver can now change gear using the paddles on the steering wheel. Moreover, the transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches the limit.

Enhanced agility and traction: AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive

The standard-specification AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive features rear-biased torque distribution with a front/rear split of 40 to 60 percent. This configuration ensures greater agility on the road and improved traction during acceleration. In the preceding model the distribution was still a neutral 50:50.

The off-road reduction gear has been developed further for operations on difficult terrain. It helps to ensure that the G 63 is able to master even more demanding off-road stretches. The reduction ratio of the transfer case is now 2.93, i.e. considerably higher than in the preceding model (2.1). This assists moving off on extreme uphill gradients in particular, as the torque at the drive wheels is significantly increased.

The off-road reduction gear can be engaged via the LOW RANGE switch at speeds of up to 40 km/h. The gear ratio of the transfer case is then changed from 1.00 in HIGH RANGE to 2.93. It is possible to switch from LOW RANGE to HIGH RANGE at speeds of up to 70 km/h.

The new, intelligent multiplate clutch behaves like an automatically controlled locking differential. It ensures that the new G 63 remains manoeuvrable for longer when off-road. The advantage is that the driver has more scope before having to engage the differential locks manually.

When the driver operates the switch for the centre differential lock, the multiplate clutch switches to a 100% locking effect. The locks at the front and rear axle differentials are differential locks with a dog clutch and a 100% locking effect. All the locks can be engaged individually while on the move, both in LOW RANGE and in HIGH RANGE, firstly centre, then rear axle and finally front axle differential.

The differential locks now respond to the switches even more rapidly, as they are electromechanically actuated and fully networked. An LED and the central driver's display indicate which lock is currently active.

With adaptive adjustable damping: AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension

The new G 63 performs even better when off-road, and on the road it is more dynamic and comfortable than its predecessor. The agile driving impression is substantially due to the suspension system, which has been completely redesigned by Mercedes-AMG and features coil springs all-round. For the first time the front axle has an independent, double wishbone suspension; a rigid axle with a five-link suspension is used at the rear.

The components of the double-wishbone front suspension are directly mounted to the ladder-type frame without a subframe. The attachment points of the lower wishbone are positioned as far up as possible. This arrangement ensures good driveability both on and off the road. A strut tower brace, known as a suspension bridge, now connects the front strut towers, which increases the torsional rigidity of the ladder-type frame.

At the rear, the new axle is guided with four longitudinal control arms on each side and a Panhard rod. This makes normal driving on the road even more comfortable. When off-road, the rear spring compression of 82 mm and rebound of 142 mm plus the ground clearance of 241 mm to the rear axle gear help to ensure a safe ride even in extreme situations. To reduce body roll, the G 63 has additional transverse stabilisers at the front and rear axles.

The AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptive adjustable damping is standard equipment. This fully automatic, electronically controlled system adjusts the damping at each wheel to the current requirements. This improves driving safety and ride comfort. The damping is adjusted individually for each wheel, and depends on the driving style, the road surface and the selected suspension setting. The ideal operating point can be selected at all times on the basis of extensive information relating to acceleration or vehicle speed, for example.

Via a switch on the centre console, the driver can choose between three different sets of damping characteristics, namely "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport+", and thus individually influence the driving experience from very comfortable to taut and sporty.

Direct and with clear feedback: the AMG speed-sensitive steering

The electromechanical speed-sensitive steering installed in the G 63 for the first time has a variable ratio to ensure precise and authentic feedback. The steering servo assistance is reduced at high speeds, and continuously increases at low speeds. This means that comparatively little steering force is required at low speeds, and that the best possible control over the vehicle is maintained at high speeds. Steering power assistance is available in a choice of two modes - "Comfort" or "Sport". The relevant characteristics are automatically activated depending on the selected DYNAMIC SELECT driving mode, or can be personalised in "Individual" mode. In "Sport" the driver receives more direct feedback about the driving status.

Characteristics at the touch of a finger: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT

For the first time in the history of the Mercedes-AMG G-Class, the driving characteristics can be individualised at the touch of a finger with five on-road and three off-road driving modes.

With the five DYNAMIC SELECT on-road modes "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport+" and "Individual", the characteristics range from efficient and comfortable to very sporty. Key parameters such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering are modified in the process. Independently of the DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs, the driver has the option of pressing the "M" button to switch directly to manual mode, in which gearshifts are executed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. If required, the stages of the adaptive adjustable suspension can be selected as well.

Three off-road modes - "Sand", "Trail" and "Rock" - are available when driving off the beaten track. These are accessed using the switch in the centre console for activation of the central differential lock, and can then be selected with the DYNAMIC SELECT rocker switch. "Trail" allows maximum performance on soft, muddy or slippery surfaces. "Sand" modifies the parameters for sporty dynamics and the best possible grip and steerability on sandy stretches or desert sand dunes. "Rock" is the mode for extremely demanding, rocky terrain with severe axle articulation and frequent lifting of one or more wheels.

All the driving modes, both On Road and Off Road, are visualised in the instrument cluster and in the central media display. Deselection of all the locks returns the setting to the on-road driving modes.

Bodyshell: made for the toughest jobs

The basis for the enormous off-road capabilities of the G 63 is provided by a torsionally rigid ladder-type frame of high-strength steel and a mounted body of composite construction. This design is considerably more robust and suitable for off-road operations than a unibody construction. As the lowest point of this construction, the frame ensures a low centre of gravity and protects the major assemblies, fuel tank and exhaust system during ground contact, e.g. when driving over obstacles.

Another development aim was to reduce the weight of the body. Using a digital prototype, the developers simulated the operating life of individual components and assemblies to determine where lighter materials could be used without compromising durability, operating life and quality.

The result is a new material mix: the bodyshell consists of various grades of steel. The wings, bonnet and doors are made of aluminium. To be able to retain the door hinges and handles typical of the G-Class, the developers modified these to suit the new aluminium design. The A and B-pillars are made of high-strength steel in view of their load-bearing function.

Thanks to this intelligent design, it was possible to increase the torsional rigidity of the frame, body shell and body mounts by around 55 percent, from 6537 to 10,162 Nm/deg. This provides the ideal basis for maximum handling precision. Comfort has also benefited: vibrations and noise in the interior have been considerably reduced.

The roof is no longer spot-welded, but instead connected to the body structure by laser welding ‑ resulting in better surface quality and higher body strength. The flange width was retained, but optimised for the new welding method. For the first time, all the fixed windows are adhesive bonded to the body. This not only increases the torsional rigidity of the body, but also makes the window frames more resistant to corrosion.

Off-road capability was the main focus during further development of the doors. The side and rear doors have a protective foil cladding on the inside, so that no water can enter when fording watercourses. The surfaces of the frame, vehicle floor and body are specially treated to withstand even the most severe influences – whether water, snow, salt or sand.

Sporty and distinctive: the exterior design

Unmistakable design features give the new AMG G 63 its unique appearance: the boxy silhouette, the proud bonnet, external door hinges, round headlamps, mounted direction indicators, robust door handles, muscular protective strips with inserts in high-gloss black with a silver AMG emblem, the exposed spare wheel on the rear door with a stainless steel cover and three-dimensional Mercedes star.

The front section of the G 63 is characterised by the AMG-specific radiator grille and the AMG bumper with large side air inlets and trim in matt iridium silver. The headlamps, indicators and tail lights are in LED High Performance technology as standard. This lighting consumes less energy and has a particularly long service life.

MULTIBEAM LED headlamps are optionally available. These each use 84 individually controlled high-performance LED modules to illuminate the road surface automatically with an extremely bright and precisely directed beam of light, without dazzling other road users. That is because this individual control allows the light distribution of the left and right headlamps to be adapted separately, quickly and dynamically to suit the changing situation on the road. This improves safety for all road users.

With the enhanced fog light function, the MULTIBEAM LED technology also allows the headlamp on the driver's side to illuminate that side more actively, while masking any rise in the light beam. As a result, the outer half of the road surface is more brightly illuminated and back-glare from the light reflected from the fog is reduced.

New light functions for enhanced safety

Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus also benefits from the performance of MULTIBEAM LED technology: thanks to a larger number of pixels, the dark areas in the light distribution are more precise and dynamic than ever before in partial main-beam mode, and the main beam can be used for longer than before. Once switched on, the system always makes the best possible headlamp range available.

Mercedes-AMG G 63 with further distinctive features

Other characteristics of the G 63 include the flared front and rear wheel arches, which create space for the larger, wider wheels. Running boards as standard, distinctive trim elements on the front and rear bumpers and metallic paintwork as standard round off the exclusive exterior. Other distinguishing features include the "V8 BITURBO" lettering on the front wings and the Mercedes-AMG G 63 model badge on the rear door. Red brake callipers, perforated brake discs and 22-inch wheels available for the first time round off the exterior design.

The G 63 looks particularly striking with the optional AMG Night package. In this case the headlamps, tail lights, indicator lenses, rear window and rear side windows are dark-tinted. The obsidian black paint finish on the exterior mirror housings, the spare wheel ring and the trim in the front and rear bumpers, together with the black-painted underride guard, emphasises the confident appearance which is rounded off by matt-black 21 or 22-inch wheels.

Sporty look with model-specific details: the interior design

The new G 63 has been given a completely newly designed, modern interior that echoes specific exterior features. The shape of the round headlamps is reflected in the side air vents, and that of the indicators in the tweeters on the dashboard. Hallmarks of the G 63 also include the grab handle in front of the front passenger and the chrome-highlighted switches for the three differential locks.

The completely redesigned dashboard has analogue tubes as dial instruments as standard. Optionally the fully digital Widescreen Cockpit with virtual instruments directly in the driver's field of vision and a central display above the centre console can be ordered. The two 12.3-inch displays visually blend into a single unit beneath a shared glass cover. The driver is able to choose from three different views – "Classic", "Sporty" and "Progressive" – � � � � � � � � and access the required information individually.

The new dimensional concept in the interior benefits all the occupants. The increase in length (+101 millimetres), width (+121 millimetres) and height (+40 millimetres) provides the basis for a significantly more airy and spacious impression than in the previous model.

The most important interior dimensions at a glance:

The rear seats can be folded down in a ratio of 40, 60 or 100 percent. The seats in the G-Class are equipped as standard with numerous convenience functions and are ergonomically designed, thus providing enhanced seating comfort and lateral support. Features include the Memory function for the driver's seat, seat heating front and rear, as well as luxury head restraints in the front.

This ride comfort can optionally be boosted still further with the Active Multicontour Seat package. In addition to the special multicontour seats, this encompasses such features as various massage functions, climate-controlled seats, and fast seat heating. This variant also offers electrically adjustable lumbar supports for the driver and front passenger. The side sections of the seat cushions and backrests of the active multicontour seats include integrated air chambers that fill or empty continuously depending on the driving dynamics, thus providing better support for the seating positions of driver and front passenger and, for example, offering more lateral support during cornering.

New AMG Performance steering wheel as standard

Extremely sporty design, a grippy shape with a heavily contoured rim and intuitive operation are the key attributes of the new AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather, which is standard equipment. It has a flattened lower section and is perforated in the grip area. The steering wheel shift paddles are galvanised.

Using the integrated touch control buttons, the functions of the instrument cluster (left) and multimedia system (right) can be intuitively controlled by horizontal and vertical swiping movements of a finger. As in the S-Class, the settings for Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and cruise control are made in the left control panels. The control panels on the right are used to activate the voice control and telephone, and to regulate the sound volume, music selection and other functions of the multimedia system.

Typical AMG V8 exhaust note

The dual-flow exhaust system features side pipes below the rear doors. The twin tailpipes in high-gloss chrome emit the typical AMG V8 sound. The standard exhaust flap can be adjusted in two stages using the switch in the centre console or depending on the selected driving mode, to make the exhaust note more sporty or discreet.

Exclusive "Edition 1" special model at market launch

On market launch the new Mercedes-AMG G 63 will also be available as an exclusive "Edition 1" special model: the combination of equipment details turns the special model into the flagship of the range. The available paint finishes are magnetite black, obsidian black, iridium silver, mojave silver, selenite grey, designo graphite metallic, designo platinum black. designo mystic white bright, designo platinum magno and designo night black magno. As a discreet contrast the sports stripes along the vehicle sides are in matt graphite grey. The exterior mirror housings have a decorative red stripe. The AMG Night package with features in high-gloss black reinforces the muscular impression. The matt black 22-inch forged wheels in a cross-spoke design have red-painted rim flanges.

The red highlights continue in the interior: They can be found on numerous interior features, for example as red contrasting topstitching on the dashboard support, centre console, door panels and rear seats. The front sport seats in black/red pepper nappa leather also show this striking colour. The sport seats feature a dynamic diamond pattern with red contrasting topstitching as standard. The carbon-fibre trim has highlights in red pepper, and the Performance steering wheel in DINAMICA microfibre with a flattened lower section is embellished with red contrasting topstitching and a red 12 o'clock marking.

The new Mercedes-AMG G 63 will celebrate its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on 6 March 2018 - the sales release date is 18 March 2018 and the market launch begins from June 2018.

Technical data at a glance

* Kerb weight according to DIN, not including driver; ** Kerb weight according to EC, including driver (75 kg); *** Electronically governed