“It's fun to drive. Love to be high up and see everything on the road. Very comfortable seats.”
2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is the addition of the V12-powered AMG G 65 as the new U.S. flagship. The G 550 also gets a new biturbo V8, while the lineup receives several smaller mechanical, styling, and cabin updates.
About the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
W463 first-generation U.S. era, late-cycle update year before the 2019 full redesign.
Mercedes-Benz positions the 2016 G-Class as a hand-built luxury SUV with real off-road hardware, not just rugged styling. The message in the brochure is equal parts prestige and proven capability: permanent four-wheel drive, locking differentials and a ladder frame, wrapped in a richly trimmed cabin. Its core appeal is that it can do genuine trail work while also serving as a high-visibility luxury vehicle in daily use.
The G 550 is the traditional luxury off-roader, with a 416-hp V8, full-time AWD, and three locking differentials for difficult terrain. The G 63 AMG turns up the performance with a 563-hp V8 and side-exit exhaust pipes, while the new G 65 AMG tops the range with a 621-hp V12 and diamond-stitched Nappa leather.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The G 550 replaces its previous engine with a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 producing 416 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque. The G 63 AMG's 5.5-liter biturbo V8 rises from 536 to 563 hp, and the new AMG G 65 brings a 621-hp, 6.0-liter biturbo V12.
Styling
The G 550 receives a revised front bumper, and certain trims get updated wheel designs.
Tech
Every 2016 G-Class receives an updated instrument cluster.
Chassis
Mercedes adds an adjustable suspension option for the G 550. The ladder-frame construction and rigid-axle layout otherwise carry over.
2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 5.5 Liter | V12, Twin Turbo, 6.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd 7G-Tronic+ | Auto, 7-Spd SPEEDSHIFT+ | Auto, 7-Spd SPEEDSHIFT+ |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 12 mpg | 11 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 14 mpg | 14 mpg | 13 mpg |
| Horsepower | 416 hp | 563 hp | 621 hp |
| Torque | 450 lb-ft | 560 lb-ft | 738 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7000 lb | 7000 lb | 7000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 75.1 cu-ft | 75.1 cu-ft | 75.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 41.9 in | 41.9 in | 41.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class?
The biggest change is the addition of the AMG G 65 to the U.S. lineup. It becomes the 2016 G-Class flagship with a hand-built 6.0-liter biturbo V12 producing 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque.
Does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G 550 have a new engine?
Yes. The 2016 G 550 replaces its previous V8 with a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 rated at 416 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque, up from 382 hp and 391 lb-ft in 2015.
How did the 2016 Mercedes-AMG G 63 change from 2015?
The 2016 AMG G 63 gains more power and an updated instrument cluster. Its 5.5-liter biturbo V8 increases from 536 to 563 hp, while torque remains listed at 561 lb-ft.
Was the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class fully redesigned?
No. The 2016 G-Class is a late-cycle update rather than a full redesign. Its traditional ladder frame, rigid axles, boxy body, full-time AWD, and three locking differentials remain in place.
Which 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has the V12?
The 2016 AMG G 65 is the V12 model. It uses a 6.0-liter biturbo V12 with 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque and includes diamond-stitched Nappa leather as standard equipment.
2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
4.7
2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
(27 reviews)
“Love it but it hasn't changed very much since my first one (it's my 3rd) since 2002Still no cup holder not much electronic/safety improvements”