6x6 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG

The Mercedes-Benz brand, defined for decades by two or three model lines, has become a benchmark for creating new segments and niches. Think first-generation A-class, or the "sports tourers" B-class and R-class. Throughout the past 15 years, Benz has perfected the art of surprising us with, ahem, out-there reveals. None of them, however, were quite as outlandish as this derivative of the G-wagen that Daimler has shown to a select few in Dubai this week.

The G63 AMG 6x6 essentially is a G63 AMG, stretched to accommodate a pickup bed and six wheels, all of which are driven by the awesome direct-injected, 5.5-liter twin-turbo V-8 that resides under the hood. Just as in the same-old, boring, four-wheeled G63 AMG, which retails for $135, 205, the 6x6 makes 544 horsepower and generates 560 lb-ft of torque. Its mill is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission, and it manages to move the four-ton-plus behemoth with considerable authority. AMG claims that the sprint from standstill to 60 mph takes around seven seconds, and the truck can top 100 mph. Forty percent of the torque is sent to the middle axle, while the front- and the rear axle each receive 30 percent. The tire pressure can even be adjusted with a built-in air compressor, which is useful when driving on different terrains.

The G63 AMG 6x6 is derived from a special edition of the G-wagen developed for the Australian armed forces, but unlike that purposeful vehicle, the concept is fully equipped with every conceivable luxury option. The center console is fitted with carbon fiber in a feeble effort to counter the 6x6's excessive weight, and the seats and door trim are finished in diamond-quilted leather.

The concept is longer, wider, and taller than a Chevrolet Suburban; and with off-road tires, five locking differentials, 18 inches of ground clearance, and more than three feet of fording depth, the G63 6x6 is predestined to tackle any kind of terrain—so long as said terrain is large enough to hold the six-wheeler.

Daimler has built two examples of this incredible machine—one of them in white, another in matte gray. They are still concepts, but we fully expect Daimler to build a small series of them. We figure on a price well north of $300, 000. Although, if the skunkworks crew in Affalterbach really wanted to treat us to something special, they would’ve shoved the 6.0-liter twin-turbo V-12 of the G65 AMG into the engine bay. For the moment, however, we applaud the brand's successful search for yet another niche. Keep surprising us, Mercedes.