Mercedes-AMG G65 4x4? Landaulet teased

The Mercedes-AMG G65 4x4? Landaulet, a plush new limited-volume, V12-powered semi-convertible version of the enduring G-class off-roader, will make its public debut at the 2017 Geneva motor show in early March.
 
Set to act as a swansong model for the existing 38 year old G-class prior to the introduction of a heavily upgraded variant of the original military-based off-roader later this year, the lavishly equipped off-roader revives the evocative Landaulet nomenclature used on some of the upmarket German car maker's most flamboyant and expensive pre-war models.
 
Details remain scarce prior to its officially unveiling, though like the Maybach 62 Landaulet launched back in 2007 the new G65 4x4? Landaulet features an automatically operated fabric roof which opens at the rear to provide the rear seat occupants with a convertible like experience..
 
The new Mercedes-AMG model appears to retain the same body structure and heavy duty underpinning as the high riding G500 4x4? launched last year. However, the centre section of the roof aft of the B-pillars and rear screen have been removed to create a large opening that is covered by a sturdy fabric hood.
 
When opened, the multi-layer fabric roof automatically retracts back and stows in an exposed position at the rear.
 
As suggested to by the licence plate worn by the G65 4x4? Landaulet pictured in an initial teaser image posted by Mercedes-AMG to various social media platforms, it will be run the latest version of Mercedes-AMG's twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine. Produced at Mercedes-Benz's factory in Mannheim, Germany, it kicks out 463kW at 5000rpm and an abundant 1000Nm of torque between 2300 and 4300rpm.
 
As on the G65, the heady reserves are set to be channelled through a seven-speed torque converter equipped automatic gearbox and sturdy four-wheel drive system with three separate differential locks. In the standard 2505kg G65, the big V12 engine provides 0-100km/h acceleration in 5.3sec and a 230km/h top speed together with combined cycle fuel consumption of 17.0L/100km and average CO2 emissions of 397g/km.
 
Pricing for the G65 4x4? Landaulet is yet to be announced, though insiders suggest it will surpass that of the earlier Maybach 62 Landaulet, which was offered in very limited numbers at more than $A500,000.

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