By Otsile Kadiege

Mercedes-AMG have revealed their first-ever plug-in hybrid high-performance car – the Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance 4Matic+ which boasts minor exterior and interior updates, and mind-boggling performance upgrades. 

Design

As mentioned above, there are minor exterior updates like wider air inlets with vertical slats, new 20 and 21-inch wheel designs, and the hard to miss plug-in power socket cut-out on the GT63’s rear bumper. Inside, much of the interior remains untouched apart from the new steering wheel design and MBUX infotainment system with specific menus, and graphics for the plug-in hybrid. 

Performance

The GT63 S E Performance 4Matic+ is still powered by a 4.0-litre V8 powerplant with a 48-volt starter generator paired to a 9-speed auto transmission. Thrown in the mix is a rear axle mounted 6.1 kWh battery pack, electric motor and an automated 2-speed transmission. Thanks to this unique concoction, which required expert knowledge from Formula One boffins, the Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance 4Matic+ churns a mind-bending 620 kW and 1400 Nm. 

According to Mercedes-AMG this allows the high-performance 4-door coupé to sprint from 0-100 km/h in a mere 2.9 seconds and has a top speed of 316 km/h. Mercedes-AMG also claims the GT63 S E Performance 4Matic+ has an electric range of 12 km and in Electric mode, driving is possible from standstill up to 130 km/h. 

Availability

We are yet to receive communication from Mercedes-Benz South Africa on the Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance 4Matic+’s local availability.