Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Review

Mercedes-AMG is unleashing the new S 63 AMG: the most powerful high-performance saloon in the luxury segment sets new standards in terms of driving dynamics, lightweight construction and efficiency. The guarantor of effortlessly superior performance is the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine delivering 430 kW (585 hp) and 900 newton metres of torque – the most powerful member of the BlueDIRECT engine family. Thanks to systematic lightweight construction based on the “AMG Lightweight Performance” philosophy, the S 63 AMG tips the scales at up to 100 kilograms less than its predecessor. The combination of an efficient drive system and reduced weight results in an NEDC combined fuel consumption of 10.1 to 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The new S 63 AMG is also available for the first time with the performance-oriented AMG all-wheel drive system 4MATIC as an option. This not only enhances traction – the S 63 AMG represents a new dimension in driving dynamics in its segment. The design, equipment and appointments of the S 63 AMG meet the highest standards in terms of high-class appeal, quality and perfection.

Systematic implementation of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy reduces the weight of the S 63 AMG by up to 100 kilograms compared to the predecessor model. This weight saving was achieved largely thanks to the use of a lightweight lithium-ion battery, AMG forged light-alloy wheels, and a weight-optimised AMG high-performance composite braking system. Furthermore, the entire outer skin of the S-Class, including the roof and the front end of the body, is made of aluminium. Installing a spare wheel recess made of carbon-fibre, a material used in Formula 1, reduces the weight by a further four kilograms.

The S 63 AMG also leads the way when it comes to power-to-weight ratio, boasting a figure of 3.37 kg/hp. The result is effortlessly superior performance: Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 4.0 to 4.4 seconds depending on model variant, and the top speed is 250 km/h  (electronically limited).

The models at a glance:

* only available with right-hand drive; ** ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90 % full, without driver and luggage); *** ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90 % full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg); **** electronically limited.

In terms of maximum output and fuel consumption, the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine remains the most efficient series-produced V8 engine of all. With an output of 430 kW (585 hp) and a torque of 900 Nm, the AMG eight-cylinder unit from the BlueDIRECT engine family (in-house designation M 157) outperforms all comparable engines. The fuel consumption of the new S 63 AMG is up to 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres lower than that of the preceding model, even though the engine output has been increased by 30 kW (41 hp). The range-topping eight-cylinder model already meets the requirements of the EU6 emissions standard, which is due to come into force in 2015.

Technical highlights of the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine:

The AMG sports exhaust system in the S 63 AMG has automatic logic-controlled exhaust flaps in both rear silencers. When the transmission is in “C” (Controlled Efficiency) mode, the flaps remain closed in most situations, in which case the eight-cylinder biturbo engine’s sound is more understated – perfect for long trips and a comfortable ride in the rear. In “S” (Sport) and “M” (Manual) modes, the exhaust flaps open earlier and more spontaneously, especially if the driver prefers a dynamic driving style. The result is an even fuller, emotional, hallmark AMG engine sound.

Like all AMG V8 and V12 engines, the eight-cylinder biturbo engine for the S 63 AMG is assembled by hand in the hand-finishing section at AMG, observing the most stringent quality standards. Highly qualified engine fitters assemble the M 157 in Affalterbach according to the “one man, one engine” philosophy. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative precision and production quality, the AMG engine plate bearing the engine technician’s signature also attests to the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance brand.

Following the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series, the S 63 AMG is the second AMG high-performance model to replace the conventional starter battery with a lithium-ion battery. The new technology offers numerous advantages over a conventional battery concept: With a capacity of 78 Ah, the lithium-ion battery replaces both the starter battery and the backup battery – resulting in a weight saving of over 20 kilograms. The high-performance battery is relatively insensitive to cold temperatures and has compact dimensions. The S 63 AMG  is the world’s first volume-produced vehicle with this type of battery concept.

Maximum individuality and custom-tailored dynamics are the strengths of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. The three transmission modes – “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport) and “M” (Manual) – provide each driver with a personal transmission setup. In comfort-oriented “C” mode the ECO start/stop function is active and shuts off the eight-cylinder engine when the car is at a standstill. In “C” mode, the driver experiences smooth transmission characteristics with comfort-oriented gearshifts. In “C” mode the car always starts in second gear.

In the “S” and “M” transmission modes the engine and transmission are significantly more agile and the ECO start/stop function is deactivated. A brief and precisely defined retardation of ignition and injection under open throttle results in even faster and acoustically more emotional gearshifts.

The optionally available performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drivedistributes the engine torque to send 33 percent to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle. The rear-biased power distribution provides the signature AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment as well as boosting acceleration from a standing start. The all-wheel drive also enhances driving safety on wet or wintry road surfaces. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-disc clutch with a locking effect of 50 newton metres, which exploits the frictional connection potential of all four wheels to the full on snow and ice in particular.

The technical basis for the AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system is a transfer case for the additional power take-off to the driven front axle. This requires no additional installation space, as it is integrated compactly into the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. The torque is transmitted from the power take-off via a propeller shaft to the front axle. Power transmission from the front axle differential to the front-left drive shaft is effected via an intermediate shaft which passes through an encapsulated shaft duct in the engine oil pan. The compact and weight-optimised design results in a comparatively low level of additional weight for the all-wheel drive system of only 70 kilograms, which also helps to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

All variants of the S 63 AMG are fitted with ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist as standard. Targeted braking intervention at the inside rear wheel results in defined cornering of the vehicle and ensures greater agility when taking corners at high speed. There is no irritating understeer when turning into corners.

The S 63 AMG 4MATIC is equipped with the AMG sports suspension. The full air suspension system AIRMATIC is equipped with the Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS. One new feature is the continuous damping adjustment, which can be controlled independently in the compression stage and rebound stage. It allows better adaptation to the driving and road-surface conditions. “Comfort” and “Sport” suspension modes can be selected at the push of a button. Specific front axle kinematics – including higher camber, a larger anti-roll bar and a stiffer subframe carrier on the rear axle – have been developed exclusively for the S 63 AMG 4MATIC. These measures optimise the vehicle’s agility when driving dynamically. With the redesigned front axle and the special all-wheel drive setup, the S 63 AMG 4MATIC represents a new dimension in its segment when it comes to driving dynamics.

The S 63 AMG with rear-wheel drive features AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL. The new S-Class is the first car in the world able to recognise road surface undulations in advance. If ROAD SURFACE SCAN detects such undulations with the help of the stereo camera, MAGIC BODY CONTROL adjusts the suspension in advance to suit the situation. Both suspension modes – “Comfort” and “Sport” – are also available here. The AMG-specific elastokinematics ensure more directness when driving dynamically. Both suspension variants available for the S 63 AMG offer hallmark Mercedes comfort on long journeys.

The electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with variable steering ratio is the perfect complement: this greatly enhances vehicle handling and agilitywhile maintaining driving safety at high speeds. In “Comfort” suspension mode, the AMG speed-sensitive sports steering enhances comfort by providing more steering assistance. If the “Sport” suspension setting is selected, on the other hand, the driver feels a more sportily stiff level of steering assistance – which tends to result in better road feel. The pre-programmed curves for power assistance enhance feedback and steering precision.

For the first time, the S 63 AMG is available with AMG forged light-alloy wheels as standard. This design reduces weight while increasing strength – the result is lower unsprung masses, giving advantages in terms of handling and spring/damper element response. In the standard specification, the S 63 AMG is fitted with AMG multi-spoke forged light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish – front: 8.5 x 19, rear: 9.5 x 19, tyre sizes 255/45 R 19 and 285/40 R 19.

Optional extras include AMG forged light-alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design painted in titanium grey and polished, front: 8.5 x 20, rear: 9.5 x 20, tyre sizes 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20. The AMG light-alloy wheels feature a high-quality, screwable and fully integrated wheel bolt cover made of forged aluminium. Its shape is reminiscent of a centre lock as seen in motorsport. The AMG logo is elegantly integrated into one of the ten spokes. As an option, these AMG light-alloy wheels are also available painted in matt black with a high-sheen rim flange. Alternatively, forged wheels of the same sizes in a 5-twin-spoke design painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and a black wheel bolt cover are available.

Extremely short stopping distances and rapid deceleration are a given for any AMG high-performance car. And the new S 63 AMG is no exception as it is equipped with a weight-optimised, fade-resistant AMG high-performance composite brake system. An AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available as an option for the S-Class for the first time. The more than 20 percent lighter design ensures lower unsprung masses as well as enhancing driving dynamics, agility and ride comfort. In addition to this, the system has a longer service life, is more resistant to corrosion and displays higher thermal stability. The AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system has front brake discs with a diameter of 420 millimetres and is recognisable by the “AMG Carbon Ceramic” logo on the specially painted brake callipers.

Powerful and exclusive, dynamic and prestigious – the new S 63 AMG also makes an impact in visual terms. The high-performance saloon’s design is defined by the impressive blend of hallmark Mercedes sensual forms, classic architecture and a sleek silhouette with classic AMG design features. A large, upright and distinctly three-dimensional radiator grille underlines the special status of the S-Class – with an exciting contrast to this being provided by the front apron with its three large cooling air intakes. The front apron with grilles painted in high-gloss black displays the stylised “A” that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles, and emphasises the exclusivity and power of the S 63 AMG. Flics (air deflectors) in high-gloss black on the side air intakes optimise the flow of air to the cooling modules – a design that is a familiar sight in motorsport. The three-dimensional front splitter in silver chrome reduces lift.

Side sill panels with three-dimensional inserts in silver chrome make the vehicle appear closer to the road and create dynamism along the flanks with the “Dropping Line” that is so typical of the brand. Large light-alloy wheels are another trademark AMG feature: they afford a clear view of the AMG high-performance braking system. “V8 BITURBO” lettering in new, contemporary typography on the front wings identifies the top-of-the-range eight-cylinder model. This new lettering also appears in the “S 63 AMG” model designation on the boot lid. The design is drawn to a powerful conclusion by the black diffuser insert with trim in silver chrome and the two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system with exhaust flaps.

Like the exterior design, the S 63 AMG interior is a beguiling combination of the sporty and exclusive atmosphere of a true AMG model, with classic Mercedes values such as improved interior dimensions, new control logic, new ergonomic touches, ease of use, safety, appeal and aesthetics. The newly developed AMG sports seats with electrical adjustment, Memory function and seat heating offer the driver and front passenger more lateral support. Fine nappa leather in AMG V8 design with AMG badges in the front seat backrests creates an exquisite and luxurious atmosphere on board. Special touches include the embossed emblem on the armrest of the front centre console and the high-quality analogue clock in an exclusive IWC design, which for the first time features three-dimensional, milled metal hands and metal appliqués on the dial.

The AMG sports steering wheel with its distinctively contoured rim, perforated leather in the grip area and aluminium shift paddles allows perfect vehicle control. Another feature displaying the hallmark AMG look is the high-resolution TFT colour display as an AMG instrument cluster with two animated round dials: in addition to the AMG-specific lettering and the needles in red/silver, further distinctive design features include the AMG logo in the speedometer with 330 km/h scale (left) and the “V8 BITURBO” lettering in the rev counter (right).

The AMG main menu has a digital speedometer and a permanent gear display in the upper section. In transmission mode “M” the driver is also prompted to perform an upshift shortly before the rpm limit is reached. Selecting “Warm Up” in the AMG main menu brings up two further dials indicating the engine oil and transmission oil temperatures. The transmission and suspension configurations that can be set using the keys in the centre console, as well as the ESP® mode, are shown at the lower edge of the AMG “Set Up” menu. An animated S 63 AMG on the TFT display between the speedo and rev counter gives the driver visual feedback.

Further standard equipment for all S 63 AMG models (selection):

Numerous individualisation options are available from the AMG Performance Studio (selection):

Additional optional extras (selection):

The S 63 AMG likewise sets new standards in active and passive safety: what began with PRE-SAFE® ten years ago and continued with DISTRONIC PLUS is now leading to a new dimension in driving. Comfort and safety have blended into one. Mercedes-Benz calls this “Intelligent Drive”. New systems make the new S-Class even more comfortable and safe:

The market introductionof the S 63 AMG begins in September 2013.
Prices for Germany (incl. 19% VAT):