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Mercedes-AMG has revealed the most powerful S-Class yet, the S63 E Performance, building on the same hybrid powertrain as the recently revealed C63 E Performance.
The headline figures for AMG’s new limo are stunning, with the S63 E Performance boasting an unhinged 590kW and 1430Nm. That’s more torque than the hypercars of last decade like the Bugatti Veyron.
The AMG S63’s power comes from Affalterbach’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, paired with an AMG-specific hybrid powertrain derived from the brand’s Formula 1 tech, driving all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The electric motor is mounted to the rear axle, while the engine drives all four wheels.
AMG claims the 2595kg limo will hit 100km/h from a standstill in just 3.3 seconds, on to an optional, autobahn-smashing top speed of 290km/h with a ‘top speed increase’ optional extra, up from 250km/h.
On that high-speed autobahn run, the 5.34-metre-long limo has rear-wheel steering to enhance stability, or to increase its manoeuvrability at low speeds, where its turning circle is a fairly hefty 12.3 metres.
For its hybrid system, the AMG-specific ‘high-performance battery’ (HPB) is a 13.1kWh unit that allows a 33km electric driving range, meaning the S63 doesn’t always have to be a fire-breathing monster of a limo.
Technical general manager of AMG Jochen Hermann said the goal with the S-Class is to strike a balance between AMG’s performance focus, and the model’s tradition of comfort and elegance.
“In addition to the technically sophisticated powertrain, we also pulled out all the stops with the suspension to achieve the greatest possible spread between comfort and driving dynamics,” Mr Hermann said.
“For example, the combination of air suspension, rear-axle steering and active roll stabilisation is on board for the first time in an AMG S-Class."
Don’t expect to see the AMG S63 E Performance in Australia, as Affalterbach’s fettled S-Class hasn’t been sold here for a while, and a spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz Australia tells CarsGuide there are no plans to introduce the new version locally.
Currently, the Maybach S680 is the top end of the S-Class range, with a price tag of at least $565,800 before on-roads, and depending on options.
