2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance lands with 791 hp

Late Monday, Mercedes-Benz AMG unveiled the latest generation of its S 63 super sedan for the 2023 model year.

This time the car’s full title is S 63 E Performance, with the new appendix suggesting the car has electrified performance, specifically a plug-in hybrid setup.

2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance

2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance

Instead of the previous S 63’s standalone V-8, there’s now a V-8 up front and an electric motor on the rear axle for a combined 791 hp and 1,055 lb-ft of torque. The V-8 is AMG’s familiar twin-turbo 4.0-liter unit, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The V-8 features active mounts, which is a first for the S 63, and it also has a mild hybrid setup with a belt-driven motor-generator replacing the traditional starter motor.

The rear-mounted electric motor produces a maximum of 188 hp (for 10-second bursts) and can propel the car on its own for short distances. This more powerful engine has its own 2-speed gearbox and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. By giving the engine and electric motor their own gearboxes, more torque can be delivered to the wheels, according to AMG.

2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance

2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance

The rear motor is powered by a 13.1kWh battery, which is also rear-mounted for better weight distribution. An estimate for electric range was not given, although AMG said the battery was designed to deliver high power rather than long range. The battery uses Formula 1-inspired technology that allows it to charge and discharge high power in rapid succession while maintaining a low weight. Key to this is a sophisticated liquid cooling system that keeps the battery’s operating temperature at an ideal 113 degrees Fahrenheit.

Performance estimates for the S 63 E Performance include 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph.

A more powerful version of this plug-in hybrid powertrain is AMG’s GT 63 SE Performance, which hits the benchmark in around 2.9 seconds.

2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance

2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance

In addition to all-wheel drive and the rear axle’s limited-slip differential, which helps improve stability during hard cornering by directing torque to where it’s needed, the S 63 E Performance’s handling is also aided by air suspension, adaptive dampers, active roll stabilization and rear wheel steering. The car also rides on 21-inch wheels that house massive brake discs that measure over 15 inches on all four corners. Steel rotors are standard, but composite rotors are available.

2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance

2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance

The S 63 E Performance follows a familiar style pattern, although an AMG-specific grille features in another first for an AMG-tuned S-Class. Inside, the usual high quality of the S-Class cabin prevails, paired with AMG-specific features. This includes exclusive colours, various nappa leather options, AMG logos and AMG-specific graphics and menus in the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. AMG is also customizing a dedicated steering wheel with controls for the AMG Drive Unit driving mode selector.

The S 63 E Performance is slated to come to the US next year. Final specifications and pricing information will be announced shortly before launch.

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