By Otsile Kadiege 

Just as the year is about to end, Mercedes-AMG had one more high-performance model to unveil to the world – the new S63 AMG E Performance. The high-performance newcomer is brimming with new gadgets, signature AMG styling and a hybridised V8 powerplant to name a few.

AMG exterior styling

Outside, the S63 AMG E Performance sports signature AMG styling accentuated by a large Panamericana radiator grille with vertical louvres and AMG badging and a new AMG emblem in silver chrome/black which replaces the Mercedes star. In addition, the front apron in jet-wing design with large side air inlets and functional air curtains characterises the front view. 

In the side view, the up to 21-inch AMG forged wheels and the AMG-specific side sill panels particularly stand out. At the rear, there are characteristic design features of the ’63 models such as the trapezoidal, fluted twin tailpipes or the wide diffuser with longitudinal fins and diffuser board.

AMG interior styling

Like the outside, the interior of the S63 E Performance adds AMG specific styling to a luxurious cabin like seats with special AMG upholstery layout and distinctive stitching which underline its refined appearance. Exclusive colours and various nappa leather upholsteries with an embossed AMG emblem in the front head restraints emphasise the sportiness of the S63 E Performance. 

The leadership aspirations in the segment are also made clear by the First-Class rear compartment and multicontour seats for four occupants. Added to this are AMG-specific trim elements and the standard AMG Performance steering wheel with AMG steering wheel buttons.

Other highlights include a large touchscreen which displays the latest MBUX infotainment system with AMG-specific menues, a digital instrument cluster as well as a head up display with AMG-specific graphics/displays.

Electrified V8

Powering the S63 E Performance is a hybridised 4.0-litre biturbo V8 engine with a total system output of 590 kW and 1430 Nm. Power is fed through the automaker’s 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system which enables the luxo-barge to accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 3.3 seconds with the optional AMG Driver’s Package, the S63 E Performance will run out of steam at 290 km/h. 

The 140 kW electric motor is positioned at the rear axle, where it is integrated with an electrically shifted two-speed transmission and the electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential to form a compact electric drive unit (EDU). Experts refer to this layout as a P3 hybrid. The high-performance battery is also located in the rear above the rear axle.

The decisive advantage of this EDU position is bypassing of the 9-speed transmission, which is flanged to the V8 engine. As it is positioned behind the transmission, the torque of both drive units can be fully utilised.

The high-performance battery in the S63 E Performance has a capacity of 13.1 kWh, more than twice as much as the already familiar HPB 80. It delivers 70 kW of continuous mechanical power and 140 kW of peak mechanical power (for ten seconds) to the electric motor. External charging takes place via the 3.7 kW onboard AC charger, at a charging station, wallbox or household socket. According to Mercedes-AMG, the battery is designed for fast power delivery and draw, not for the longest possible range. Nevertheless, the electric range of 33 kilometres is said to allow a practical operating radius, for example for quiet all-electric driving from a residential area.

Also new to the S63 AMG E Performance are the seven AMG Dynamic Select driving modes, namely “Electric”, “Comfort”, “Battery Hold”, “Sport”, “Sport+”, “Slippery” and “Individual” which are said to be precisely tailored to the new drive technology. 

Other mechanical highlights of the high-performance newcomer include high torsional rigidity, standard AMG Ride Control+ suspension with adaptive damping, standard Active roll stabilisation and a four stage regenerative braking system. 

Driver assistance systems

The S63 E Performance is equipped with numerous new or enhanced driving assistance systems support the driver. These include Active Distance Assist Distronic, Active Steering Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Active Blind Spot Assist and exit warning function, Evasive Steering Assist and Level 3 automated driving via the Drive Pilot system. 

Local availability

Mercedes-Benz South Africa are yet to share details of the new S63 AMG E Performance’s local debut.