Mercedes-AMG S 63 E Performance debuts as one potent PHEV saloon
Though the Mercedes-AMG C63 has ditched the 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 engine for a smaller 2.0-litre hybridised unit, the flagship S 63 soldiers on with the former, but, as expected, it gets some form of electrification.
Now called the S 63 E Performance, it packs a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine and a rear-axle-mounted electric motor good for a total system output of 590 kW and 1,430 Nm of torque, thus making it the most potent S-Class to ever come out of Stuttgart.
The large saloon hurtles from a standstill to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds, and it will continue to run until a top speed of 250 km/h or 290 km/h with the optional AMG Driver’s Package. The new S 63 E Performance features a 9-speed automatic transmission that drives all four wheels via the AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system.
In case you are wondering what the electric motor does here, it provides a peak of 140 kW for 10-second bursts or a continuous 70 kW and a maximum torque of 320 Nm. The electric motor features an electrically-shifted 2-speed transmission plus an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential.
A 13.1 kWh battery pack feeds power to the electric motor and ensures 33 km of pure electric driving range. It can be recharged using a 3.7 kW onboard AC charger at a charging station, wall box or household socket.
In the looks department, the S 63 E Performance bears an AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical louvre plus a large central star for the first time. Gone is the previous model’s star on the radiator grille; it’s been replaced by an AMG emblem in silver chrome/black. It rides on AMG forged wheels that measure up to 21″. The rear is kitted with trapezoidal, fluted twin tailpipes, a wide diffuser with longitudinal fins and a diffuser board.
Moving inside, the S 63 E Performance gets AMG-specific features such as seats with a unique AMG upholstery layout and distinctive stitching. Buyers can choose from a range of exclusive colours and various Nappa leather upholsteries.
As standard, the saloon comes with an AMG Performance steering wheel with AMG steering wheel buttons and an MBUX infotainment system that includes various AMG- and hybrid-specific displays and functions.
The S 63 has always offered an outstanding balance between performance, safety and opulence. The new S 63 E Performance model takes things up a notch with a wide range of features such as rear-axle steering, AMG Dynamic control system, active engine mounts, active roll stabilisation, AMG high-performance compound brake system and various safety systems.
