When Mercedes-AMG launches the S 63 E PERFORMANCE hybrid in 2023, it will be the most powerful S-Class to date, makers say.
Although Mercedes has not yet named a price, it's also likely to be one of the most expensive S-Class models ever this side of a Maybach edition.
In its home market of Europe, Mercedes AMG is expected to ask for more than the €140,420 (RM648,000) needed for the current top-of-the-range S 580 e model.
The drive is the familiar V8 turbo with 612hp. This 4.0-litre engine is combined with a plug-in module. An electric motor on the rear axle contributes another 190hp. According to AMG, this makes for a whiplash-causing maximum torque of 1,430Nm.
Despite weighing a good two tonnes, the S 63 accelerates from a standstill to 100kph in 3.3 seconds at best (shaving about 2 seconds off the times for earlier standard models) and can hit speeds of up to 290kph.
Buyers won't be getting this car to reduce their carbon footprint, but Mercedes is throwing in a modest electric range of 33km from an electric motor powered by a rechargeable battery.
This feature also reduces the standard consumption to 4.4 litres (CO2 emissions: 100 g/km).
For the first time, AMG combines air suspension with active roll stabilisation and rear-axle steering in the S-Class.
In addition, the Panamericana grille, which is typical of all other AMG models, is being fitted for the first time on the S-Class, complete with massive air vents.
