The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the automotive industry’s benchmark for luxury and technology — if you need reminding, check out the time Hypebeast got behind the wheel of the latest generation S500. And while this is of the utmost importance for an S-Class, the skunkworks AMG division can’t help but get its oily fingers all over Mercedes-Benz‘s cars, resulting in what you see above: the all-new Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE.
With the big clue in its name, this S 63 comes with a four-liter bi-turbo V8 engine that’s paired with a rear-powering electric motor, combined putting out 791 HP — the most of any S-Class ever. Additionally, the hybrid unit produces 1,055 lb-ft of torque, which is enough to send the car to 60 MPH in 3.2 seconds before going on to a top speed of 180 MPH, if you have the car ticked with the extra performance pack. One-pedal driving like a true electric car can be achieved, while conventional petrol-powered car driving can also be on tap, all depending on the level of regeneration you opt for, while electric power is always available thanks to technology derived from the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 race car.
Driving modes include “Electric,” “Comfort,” “Battery Hold,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” “Slippery” and “Individual,” meaning you can choose to use the S 63 E PERFORMANCE for long-distance limo rides or more vigorous driving, all of which is tailored by yourself (or your driver) in the “Individual” setting. Here, throttle response, steering weight, and customization of the drive, transmission, AMG DYNAMICS, suspension, and exhaust system can all be altered.
Moving on to technology, the car is naturally packed with all the latest-and-greatest from the German marque. Aside from every single driver aid imaginable, you’ll find a luxurious interior as expected but with notable AMG touches, such as dials, graphics, and stitching denoting the car’s provenance. Interior tech includes the incredibly futuristic MBUX infotainment system, augmented reality and AI head-up display, and a second-to-none surround system.
As for cosmetic enhancements, the Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE takes the standard S-Class and lightly beefs things up: an AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical louvers makes its model debut, while optional packs add plenty of carbon fiber to the front, sides and rear, where angular quad tail-pipes can be found alongside red-outlined S 63 badges.
No official price has been revealed, but expect it to start from around $200,000 USD. Take a closer look at the car above.
Elsewhere, Audi has made the RS6 and RS7 more performance-focused than ever before.
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