After its Frankfurt Motor Show debut, Mercedes-Benz released fresh information and photos of the new generation S 63 AMG, the most powerful S-Class until the V12-powered S 65 AMG arrives.
With 577 hp (585 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft) of torque available between 2,250 and 3,750 rpm, the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine enables the S 63 AMG to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds (4.0 seconds for the 4Matic LWB model) and to reach a limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
Average fuel consumption is rated at 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 mpg US), thanks in part to the fact that the S 63 AMG is up to 100 kg (220lbs) lighter than its predecessor. The weight loss has been made possible through the use of a lightweight lithium-ion battery, AMG forged light-alloy wheels and a weight-optimized AMG composite braking system. Furthermore, the outer skin of the S-Class, including the roof and the front end of the body, is made of aluminum.
The high-performance version of the latest S-Class is available for the first time with the rear-biased 4Matic all-wheel drive system that has been tuned by AMG to favor performance. According to Benz, 33 percent of engine torque is sent to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle. Available only for the long-wheelbase model, the 4Matic system helps the S 63 AMG sprint from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4 seconds flat.
The V8 engine is mated to an AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed transmission that has three modes: “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport) and “M” (Manual).
The S 63 AMG is available with ceramic composite brakes for the first time, while standard equipment includes, among others, AMG door sill panels, AMG floor mats, AMG sports pedals made from brushed stainless steel with rubber studs, ambience lighting, Attention Assist, Collision Prevention Assist, Comand Online, 10 loudspeakers with Frontbass, metallic paintwork, tire pressure loss warning system and LED High Performance headlamps.
The performance luxury saloon will arrive in European dealerships in September 2013, with prices in Germany starting from €149,880 ($200,165) for the short-wheelbase model and €152,617 ($203,850) for the long-wheelbase variant.
In the U.S., the new S63 AMG will be available exclusively with the longer wheelbase and 4MATIC with sales to begin in November at a starting MSRP of $139,500 excluding destination and handling.
By Dan Mihalascu
PHOTO GALLERY
