Short for Sonderklasse (German for “special class”), the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a range of full-sized luxury cars that was first introduced in 1977. In the four and a half decades since its debut, the S-Class has consistently raised the bar in its vehicle class, with the latest AMG-spec model year being no exception as Mercedes has just rolled out the most potent and high-performance S-Class in history with the Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE.
Taking a page out of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team’s playbook, the latest AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine that benefits from a motorsport technology-based P3 Hybrid System, ultimately allowing for a collective 791hp and 1,054.7ft-lbs of torque — with the latter figure providing more oomph than that of a Diesel Ford Super Duty and only around 100ft-lbs less than a Buggati Chiron. Mated to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission, the forced-induction hybridized V8 also allows for 0-60mph runs in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of around 180mph — though the car has been electronically limited to 155mph on public roads.
Stopping power is provided by an AMG high-performance composite braking system with six-pot calipers while bumps in the tarmac are absorbed via an AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension setup with adaptive adjustable damping and active roll stabilization. Representing the most powerful S-Class of all time, this new plug-in hybrid model also features five regenerative modes and one-pedal driving, as well. Other noteworthy elements include an AMG grille and light aero kit, 21” wheels, a quad-tipped exhaust, electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering, active rear-axle steering, an AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive system, the MBUX entertainment system, an AMG Performance steering wheel, and a slew of available AMG Driving Modes.
While pricing and availability for the 2023 Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE have yet to be revealed, we anticipate a six-figure MSRP and a release date sometime next year.
