Experience the thrill of power and performance unlike anything before with the 2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance. This exceptional vehicle combines the might of a twin-turbo V-8 engine with the cutting-edge technology derived from Formula 1 racing. With its sleek design, luxurious interiors, and mind-boggling horsepower, the S63 E Performance is set to redefine the boundaries of automotive excellence.
Unleashing Raw Power: The Hybrid Powertrain
The heart and soul of the 2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance lies in its hybrid powertrain, which seamlessly blends the best of both electric and combustion engine technologies. This innovative system features a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine, generating a jaw-dropping 603 horsepower. But the real game-changer is the addition of an electric motor and an F1-derived battery, elevating the total power output to an astonishing 791 horsepower.
AMG’s focus with the S63 E Performance is to deliver best-in-class performance, and the hybrid powertrain is designed to achieve exactly that. The 188-hp electric motor is strategically placed at the rear axle, working in harmony with the V-8 engine. This configuration allows for simultaneous delivery of power from both sources, resulting in mind-bending acceleration and unparalleled driving experience.
A Symphony of Technology: The P3 Hybrid System
To ensure the S63 E Performance moves with grace and precision, AMG has developed the P3 hybrid system. This sophisticated technology provides instant torque from a standstill, enabling faster launches and a smoother driving experience in city traffic. Additionally, the AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system kicks into action when wheel slip is detected, seamlessly transferring power to the front wheels via an electronically controlled clutch pack.
The hybrid system also features a 10.5-kWh battery, developed in collaboration with the renowned F1 engine manufacturer High Performance Powertrains (HPP). This lithium-ion energy storage system is derived from the same technology used in Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team’s hybrid race cars, ensuring durability and high current flow even under intense discharge and recharge cycles. The advanced cooling circuit maintains the battery at an optimal temperature of 113 degrees Fahrenheit, with a safety system in place to protect against overheating and degradation.
The Art of Regeneration: Maximizing Efficiency
Efficiency is a key aspect of the S63 E Performance, and AMG has implemented a range of regenerative technologies to optimize the use of energy. The car offers four levels of onboard regeneration, allowing the driver to choose between a freewheeling mode and a one-pedal-driving experience. Depending on driving conditions, the Level 3 regeneration can return over 90 kilowatts of energy to the battery.
Interestingly, the S63 E Performance can only be charged to 100 percent using the 3.7-kW onboard AC charger. This deliberate choice highlights the car’s focus on delivering exceptional power and performance rather than aiming for record-breaking economy runs. The battery is optimized for fast power delivery, ensuring that the S63 E Performance always remains ready to unleash its full potential.
Unleashing the Beast: Driving the S63 E Performance
Step behind the wheel of the 2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance, and you will be greeted by a driving experience like no other. Despite its complex hybrid system, the car’s performance on the road is anything but complicated or intimidating. Thanks to meticulous calibration of the software and the electric motor’s unique characteristics, the powertrain seamlessly integrates to deliver exhilarating acceleration and a genuine high-performance V-8 exhaust note.
Whether you’re cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway or tackling the twists and turns of mountain roads, the S63 E Performance remains solid and responsive. The instantaneous torque from the electric motor, combined with the V-8 engine’s power, ensures that there are no soft spots or clumsy handoffs in power delivery. With Launch mode engaged, the S63 E Performance rockets off the line with unyielding acceleration, defying its substantial weight. Mercedes-AMG claims a 0-60 mph time of just 3.2 seconds, but real-world tests suggest that it might even dip below the 3.0-second mark.
The electric motor’s two-speed transmission plays a pivotal role in optimizing torque for different driving situations. At 87 mph, the transmission seamlessly shifts into second gear, allowing the electric motor to spin at around 13,500 rpm before the shift. This dynamic range of ratios ensures maximum torque at low and high speeds, providing a thrilling driving experience at any velocity. The S63 E Performance boasts an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, demonstrating its true performance pedigree.
Aesthetics Meet Performance: Design and Interior
Stylistically, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance strikes a balance between elegance and sportiness. The absence of the traditional Mercedes hood ornament is a bold statement, replaced by a sleek silver-and-black AMG emblem. The AMG-specific grille and subtle fascia tweaks further distinguish the S63 E Performance from its peers. At the rear, trapezoidal tailpipes and a rear diffuser add a touch of aggression. The car sits confidently on unique 21-inch wheels, completing its athletic stance.
Inside the cabin, the S63 E Performance offers the epitome of luxury through the lens of AMG. The seats provide unmatched comfort for all passengers, with bespoke upholstery and stitching available in exclusive colors. Embossed AMG emblems serve as a reminder of the craftsmanship and attention to detail that define this exceptional vehicle. The infotainment screen strikes a balance between functionality and elegance, seamlessly integrated into the center waterfall above the console. Combined with the excellent head-up display, the driver has access to a wealth of information, enhancing the driving experience without overwhelming the senses.
Unmatched Competition: A Niche to Rule
With the 2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance, Mercedes-AMG has set its sights on a niche market that demands both luxury and performance. While the Audi S8, BMW 8-Series Gran Coupe, and BMW Alpina B7 offer similar options in the segment, none can match the S63’s advanced hybrid powertrain derived from Formula 1 technology. Only the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid comes close, but the S63 E Performance has the added advantage of Mercedes-Benz’s legendary craftsmanship and the segment benchmark rear-seat comfort.
In conclusion, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of power and performance. By harnessing the technology derived from Formula 1 racing, this exceptional vehicle offers a driving experience that is as exhilarating as it is refined. With its hybrid powertrain, sleek design, and luxurious interior, the S63 E Performance redefines what it means to be a high-performance luxury sedan. Get ready to experience the future of automotive excellence like never before.
Specifications:
- Vehicle Type: Front-engine, rear-motor, all-wheel-drive, 4- or 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
- Price (C/D EST): Base: $190,000
- Powertrain: Twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve 4.0-liter V-8, 603 hp, 664 lb-ft + AC motor, 188 hp, 236 lb-ft (combined output: 791 hp, 1055 lb-ft; 10.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack; 3.7-kW onboard charger)
- Transmissions, F/R: 9-speed automatic/2-speed automatic
Dimensions:
- Wheelbase: 126.6 in
- Length: 210.1 in
- Width: 75.6 in
- Height: 59.6 in
- Trunk Volume: 11 ft³
- Curb Weight (C/D est): 5500 lb
Performance (C/D EST):
- 0-60 mph: 2.8 sec
- 0-100 mph: 7.1 sec
- 1/4-Mile: 10.9 sec
- Top Speed: 155 mph
EPA Fuel Economy (C/D EST):
- Combined/City/Highway: 17/14/24 mpg
- Combined Gasoline + Electricity: 50 MPGe
- EV Range: 17 mi
Contributing Editor Andrew Wendler brings decades of wrenching, writing, and editorial experience with numerous outlets to Car and Driver. A rust-belt native and tireless promoter of the region, he once won a $5 bet by walking the entire length of the elevated People Mover track that encircles downtown Detroit.