It’s okay to feel hyped about the G-Wagen. For starters, after decades of constantly upgrading the old one, Mercedes finally rolled out an all-new model.

Then, it is jammed with all the latest and greatest tech and, in range-topping AMG G63 guise, it looks as bad @ss as they get.

The latter is instantly noticeable thanks to a few visual updates, like the typical grille with vertical slats and an overall sporty vibe. But it’s what’s under the hood that matters the most; and that’s a 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V8 that puts out an outstanding 577 HP (585 PS / 430 kW) and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) of torque.

Also Watch: Top Gear Pits Mercedes G63 Against Audi RS3 And Cayman GTS

Linked to a 9-speed automatic gearbox, it allows the punchy SUV to accelerate to 60 mph (96 km/h) in just4.4 seconds and hit a 137 mph (220 km/h) top speed, which can be increased to 149 mph (240 km/h) if you opt for the AMG Driver’s Package.

Mind you, it is still a G-Wagen through and through: unless you’re scared of scratching the paint and putting some dents in the body panels, you could still take it off-road. There are several driving modes to choose from, depending on the surface and weather, but as fun as it may be to drive it in the wilderness, the place where it truly shines is on the road. Its weight balance, handling and everything else has been refined to the point where you will know what the front wheels are doing, especially in the most dynamic drive modes that make everything more responsive.

As for the downsides to owning the new G63, that would be the $147,500 starting price in the U.S. and the fact that rear seat passengers might feel a bit crowded, despite having more legroom than in the previous model. There are other aspects that potential buyers should know, too, and you can learn all about them all by watching the review that follows.