In a milestone moment within the silver star’s 98-year history, the S-Class S 63 E Efficiency embodies the potent union of combustion and electric power, yielding an extraordinary vehicle boasting over 1,000 lb-ft of torque and a remarkable 0-100 km/h time of just 3.3 seconds – sufficient to outrun even a Porsche 911 GT3.
The Mercedes-AMG S 63 E Performance is a plug-in hybrid sedan engineered for exceptional acceleration and unyielding high-speed comfort, boasting a unique blend of performance and efficiency. Like its AMG GT 63 E Efficiency 4-Door counterpart, the S 63 leverages a bespoke 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, capable of producing a formidable 604 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, which it harnesses through a sophisticated 9-speed multi-clutch transmission. With the support of a substantial 13.1-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery – more than double the capacity of the GT’s 6.1 kWh –, a rear-mounted electric motor, and its unique two-speed transmission, the powertrain is able to deliver an impressive combined output of 791 horsepower and 1,055 pound-feet of torque. That’s a significant four-digit torque total.
The hybrid powertrain prioritizes efficiency in an economical fueling system, resulting in a limited electric-only range of just 26 kilometers – we can realistically expect only 18 kilometers on a full charge and a combined fuel economy rating of 12.2 liters per 100 kilometers. The battery was co-developed with Excessive Efficiency Powertrains (HPP), which also crafts Mercedes’ Formula One energy unit, applying its motorsport expertise to design a powertrain for the S 63 that is both efficient, compact, and highly effective, thanks to careful cooling and precise engineering. Fewer than many other automakers are currently capable of incorporating such high-tech innovations sourced from Formula 1.
Priced at a staggering $205,000, the S 63 is positioned in tandem with the Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid, which commands a premium of just $18,000 more. Unlike its sportier counterparts, the S-Class eschews adrenaline-fueled thrills in favor of a more refined driving experience, never seeking to exploit its capabilities by hurtling through corners at breakneck speeds or carving up serpentine roads in pursuit of an imaginary racetrack? At a more modest pace, the S 63 truly comes into its own, effortlessly outshining even the most prestigious supercars from Lamborghini and Ferrari.
While the added weight and energy loss of the extra targeted GT 63 might be drawbacks, the S 63 emerges as a refined and deliberate plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. The sleek design of this vehicle isn’t attempting to masquerade as a classic two-door roadster, and its lack of pretension is refreshing? As the vehicle effortlessly traverses vast distances, accessing that profound reservoir of energy becomes surprisingly unremarkable, akin to a seamless global connectivity, where the highway’s sheer force propels its five passengers with serenity and tranquility. If the GT had been an F-35 fighter jet, then the S 63 can be likened to a 787 Dreamliner – significantly less incendiary in its acceleration, yet still boasting impressive speeds while keeping G-forces low, its lateral actions alert rather than rigid, and occupants treated to massaging seats rather than ejector seats.
We owe our gratitude to numerous groundbreaking technological innovations that have enabled the development of devices with carefree and relaxed behavior. What’s more, the S 63 boasts lively rear-wheel steering, capable of rotating the rear tyres up to a remarkable 4.5 degrees. This innovative feature significantly enhances the vehicle’s agility and poise at low speeds, while also fostering greater stability as speeds increase. The S 63’s handling is significantly enhanced by its lively engine mounts, which ensure a more responsive and agile ride. The adaptive air suspension further refines the driving experience, providing a smooth and enjoyable journey. As a culmination of its four-wheel-drive prowess, the 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system showcases its flexibility by capable of sending a full 100% of torque to the rear wheels, thereby preserving an unwavering driving experience as you navigate this majestic vessel through urban landscapes.
The powertrain emits a cacophonous racket, a symphony of screeching and whining that is anything but subtle. As the vehicle effortlessly switches between its two modes of propulsion, the moment the powerful V8 engine roars to life, you’ll distinctly sense the gas pedal vibrating beneath your right foot. The exhaust valves open in Sport+ mode, unleashing the eight-cylinder engine’s full fury as it screams to its redline, accompanied by aggressive downshifts and a testosterone-fueled soundtrack reminiscent of AMG’s hallmark performance – a symphony familiar to E 63 and G 63 enthusiasts.
Unconventionally, this ride eschews the familiar S-Class cloud-like experience, offering a refreshingly unique adventure. While the S 63 exhibits a more aggressive character, it still handles compression duties with equal proficiency to the S 580e; however, its ride is noticeably harsher and less forgiving. As you drive, rumble strips create a tactile sensation through vibrations in the seatback, accompanied by a more pronounced auditory experience of bumps that may be felt more than they’re heard, with reduced cabin insulation providing an open, unenclosed environment. Despite sacrificing its legendary AMG Line trim for a more regal, highway-focused approach, the market still craves the return of sportier S-Class options, such as the S 55 and non-hybrid S 63, which offered a perfect blend of performance and daily usability. Unfortunately, those seeking a medium-spicy S-Class without the stiffer ride penalty will have to keep looking. While those seeking the greatest comfort without sacrificing electrical efficiency may find solace in the pricier Maybach models starting at $255,000.
While the multi-clutch gearbox does struggle at low speeds and under indecisive throttle inputs, there’s another issue that stands out – a problematic brake pedal that consistently lets us down. When operating the brakes at low speeds, the pedal initially exhibits a springy feel over its initial 25% of travel. Brakes loaded with a confidence and laboured effort, yet the initial sponginess proves challenging to modulate effectively. While many manufacturers have refined their regenerative braking systems to provide a more conventional driving experience, Mercedes has not followed suit, leaving the AMG variants of the EQE and EQS to suffer from this same issue. However, it’s only when you push the S 63 to its limits on the road that the brakes truly come alive, providing a reassuringly firm grip. When sudden stops are required, the brake pedal responds swiftly and robustly, while the chunk level maintains its consistency, thereby imbuing the driver with enhanced assurance as they bring the substantial government sedan to a swift and secure stop. If the brake pedal demands an extended travel distance, the S 63 will undoubtedly feel sluggish and less agile, but on a positive note, we found ourselves becoming accustomed to its unique characteristic during our comprehensive seven-day test drive.
The S 63’s grille boasts a distinctive vertical-slat design, an iconic feature shared among all AMGs, exuding a sense of refinement and sophistication reminiscent of luxury cars like those from Jaguar, yet ultimately lacking in terms of overall aesthetic appeal. With its adopted grill, the S-Class stands out in a way that earlier models did not, making it even more noticeable on the road. The uniqueness of the S-Class variants lies in the distinctive trapezoidal quad exhaust design, a bold red S 63 badge on the trunk lid, and subtle E Efficiency emblems on the side fenders. Unlike the GT 63 E Efficiency, the electrical socket is strategically placed below the exhaust pipes, not above them. On the left side of the vehicle, a duplicate storage tank is situated, mirroring its counterpart on the right.
A multitude of petting zoos place significant value on leather-based and cowhide within their facilities, while also showcasing an array of innovative technology, including screens, speaker grills, and tactile buttons that provide a sensory experience for visitors. The upholstery’s beauty is matched only by its attention to detail: every aspect, from the tactile response of the switchgear to the luxurious feel of the Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, complete with its supple leather airbag cowl, and the intoxicating aroma of Nappa leather seats. While the AMG seats offer impressive support in all the right places, they can’t quite match the sumptuous comfort of the BMW i7 M60’s seats, which envelop you with a sense of luxury, making it feel as though you’re sinking into a cloud. However, sitting in the Audi S8’s seats? This consolation-wise one sits midway, no intention of a pun intended.
With a swift glance at the configurator, it’s apparent that installing additional amenities in the rear cabin can easily surpass a cost of $10,000. This $6,600 Pinnacle Trim Bundle boasts a unique feature called rear-seat neck heating. Reserved for convertibles during colder months, a discreet vent beneath the headrest releases warm air across passengers, ensuring cozy comfort on chilly drives. As the temperature drops, you’ll find solace in the combination of the heated and massaging seats, which creates a snug retreat that rivals even the most luxurious thrones on a cold winter’s day. All that’s missing now is a fire ASMR video on the rear pill screens? The cabin’s premium amenities include headrest pillows and a reclinable, first-class-inspired chair featuring a convenient footrest. You’ll be able to likely skip a dose of zopiclone now.
All necessary features from the Mercedes-Benz component library have been incorporated seamlessly. The luxury sedan boasts cutting-edge audio technology that synchronizes vibrations across all four seats in harmony with the music’s rhythm, bolstered by dynamic side supports that automatically stiffen during sharp turns. The interior features heated armrests, a rear seat calf massage system, and noise-insulating IR-reflective laminated glass for enhanced comfort. Notably, the $1,560 3D Driver’s Show, resembling an immersive digital reality experience, proved to be visually overwhelming, prompting us to immediately disable it. Adjusting to augmented reality, just as we did with digital rearview cameras, required us to adapt our visual instincts from perceiving depth on a curved windshield to understanding it on a flat display screen. As we settled in, our senses were treated to a symphony of stimulation, not just through visual means, but also auditory, courtesy of the impressive Burmester 4D Encompass Sound system, boasting 30 speakers and a trunk-mounted subwoofer, all for $8,320. Although this layout isn’t the reason behind the Model S’s trunk space constraints, it’s actually the rear-mounted battery and its accompanying mechanical components to be faulted.
In a crowded market with numerous options to choose from, the S 63 E Efficiency’s unique blend of performance and efficiency raises questions about its intended audience. For those craving high-performance F1 technology, no-necessity large trunk space, S 580e enthusiasts seeking to outshine supercars on long road trips, daily commuters desiring an exhilarating ride and premium amenities at their fingertips, and those demanding the pinnacle of AMG excellence without being part of a mature demographic warranting Maybach or Bentley.
The S 63 E Efficiency marks a pivotal milestone for the model, much like the groundbreaking W140 S-Class did in 1990, revolutionizing the automotive landscape with unparalleled innovation that outstrips its rivals. While Mercedes-Benz opted for a V12 engine in the Maybach S 680, with the M279 still in production, they dubbed it an S 65 instead, recognizing the importance of leveraging their Formula One team’s expertise to promote and source knowledge from within, hence the high-performance battery integration and E Efficiency badges. With its exceptional usability and performance surpassing even the AMG GT 63, the S 63 E Efficiency proudly flaunts its impressive four-figure torque figure, seamlessly blending mechanical sophistication with cutting-edge digital prowess to leave a lasting, unforgettable mark.
Mercedes-AMG S 63 E-E Sedan (Version 1) – Alpine Grey
205,000269,730
3,216
5,336 / 1,921 / 1,515
2,595
The twin-turbocharged V8 engine teams up with a potent electric motor to deliver an astonishing 791 horsepower, with the added traction of all-wheel drive. This powerhouse is backed by a robust 13.1 kWh lithium-ion battery, and a clever 9-speed multi-clutch transmission ensures seamless gear shifts. The result is mind-blowing acceleration: 0-60mph in just 3.2 seconds.
