Mercedes G63 Project Gets Serious Trail Clearance Boost from MBRP Exhaust and Abenteuer Rocksliders

When we first began the OVR G63 project, our goal wasn’t to turn the Mercedes-AMG G63 into a rock-crawling brute. We wanted to enhance its overland capability while keeping the legendary G-Class refinement intact.

Our G63 retains its stock ride height—aside from a modest one-inch lift gained from the upsized Toyo Open Country A/T III tires. That choice was intentional.

By staying close to stock height, the G maintains its on-road comfort, handling balance, and low center of gravity, all of which make it a great daily driver and long-distance tourer. But keeping the factory stance meant we had to be smart about reclaiming ground clearance elsewhere.

The biggest offenders in that department were the factory AMG side steps and exhaust system. Both hang low and limit approach, departure, and breakover angles.

For a vehicle designed to explore beyond paved roads, that’s far from ideal. So, we turned to our friends at Jack Wagon Overlanding for guidance.

Off-Road Suitable Exhaust

Their solution was twofold. First, they recommended swapping the bulky AMG exhaust for an MBRP 3-inch High Clearance Catback Exhaust System.

This system is purpose-built for off-road use, with a tucked-up design that significantly increases ground clearance by routing the exhaust up higher within the chassis.

Constructed from heavy-duty aluminized or T409 stainless steel, it’s designed to handle trail abuse while improving exhaust flow.

The high-clearance configuration means fewer hang-up points when cresting over rocks or ruts, and the system’s straight-through design enhances throttle response and delivers a deeper, more aggressive tone.

After RPM Off-Road Garage in Monrovia, California, expertly installed the system, the difference was immediately noticeable. From underneath, it’s neat and compact—exactly what we needed for tight trail sections.

From the driver’s seat, the G63 now has an even more commanding sound. The twin-turbo V8’s growl is throatier, with a sharper bark on startup and a muscular rumble under throttle.

It’s not overwhelming inside the cabin, but from outside, it definitely makes its presence known—our neighbors can confirm that.

Streamlined Protection

To further streamline the G’s profile and protect the rocker panels, Jack Wagon Overlanding also pointed us toward Abenteuer 4x4’s G-Slide Rocksliders.

These sliders replace the factory steps with a more functional, low-profile design that hugs the body tightly for maximum clearance.

Built from high-strength steel, the G-Slides not only provide protection from trail obstacles but also retain a usable step for easy cabin access.

We love that they blend seamlessly with the G-Class lines—OEM styling with real off-road function.

Final Thoughts

Both upgrades have transformed how the OVR G63 handles on uneven terrain. We’re no longer scraping or second-guessing clearance on steep trail transitions, and the G now looks leaner and meaner without sacrificing luxury or practicality.

With the MBRP exhaust and Abenteuer 4x4 G-Slides in place, our G63 is finally as confident on rugged trails as it is on city streets—and we’re already planning more off-road trips to put that newfound clearance to the test.

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