Mercedes-Benz is currently undergoing a significant transformation. The esteemed car manufacturer is gearing up for an electric future with models like the EQS, while continuing to revamp its traditional internal-combustion vehicles such as the S-Class. The 2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance serves as a bridge between these two worlds.
For those unfamiliar with Mercedes jargon, AMG signifies the performance division, and the S63 represents a high-performance variant of the S-Class. This 2024 version is the latest in the lineage of robust Mercedes sedans that blend limo-like luxury with the power of a sports car. However, there’s a new twist this time around.
Like its predecessors, the 2024 AMG S63 E Performance boasts an old-school V8 engine. But now, it’s complemented by a plug-in hybrid system, offering extra power and limited all-electric driving capability. This combination positions the S63 either as a versatile all-rounder or a compromise that doesn’t master any single aspect. To explore its capabilities, we took it for a spin in Southern California.
The AMG visual design aims for subtlety. Beyond a few badges and unique wheel designs, most AMG models look similar to their standard Mercedes counterparts, and the S63 E Performance is no different, albeit with some tweaks. The S-Class’s elegant body lines remain, interrupted only by pop-out door handles. However, this model features larger air intakes at the front, more prominent exhaust tips at the rear, and sportier wheel designs. But Mercedes didn’t overdo it, sticking to a sophisticated look rather than going over the top.
One notable change in the S63 E Performance is the Mercedes star, which now sits in the grille instead of as a hood ornament. The former spot of the hood ornament now holds a medallion bearing the AMG crest—a small but noticeable difference for Mercedes enthusiasts.
The interior retains much of the lavishness of the standard S-Class, which is already considered one of the most luxurious cabins available. Updates include a new steering wheel, optional carbon-fiber trim, and AMG-specific color choices, adding a fresh twist to an already impressive interior. Expect extravagances like Nappa leather seats, massaging functions, and a 64-color adjustable ambient lighting system that turns the interior into a light show, especially when driving through tunnels.
The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system remains largely unchanged from the standard S-Class. It features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch central touchscreen, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and natural language voice recognition.
The infotainment system continues to impress. The screens integrate seamlessly, with the main touchscreen beautifully angled on the dashboard. The voice command system activated by saying “Hey Mercedes” is efficient enough to handle most tasks, reducing the need to fiddle with physical controls. For navigation, the display and the head-up display can project turn-by-turn directions, ensuring you don’t miss a turn.
The S63 E Performance also includes an array of advanced driver-assist features, similar to other S-Class models. Highlights include adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, active steering assist, lane-keeping assist, lane change assist, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and a hazard-warning system that alerts passengers of oncoming traffic when exiting the vehicle.
The true AMG experience extends to its driving dynamics. Here lies its uniqueness — Mercedes offers a V8 and a plug-in hybrid system in the S-Class lineup, but never together until now. The 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission and an electric motor mounted at the rear axle, which has its own two-speed gearbox. A 13.1-kilowatt-hour battery beneath the trunk floor powers this motor, making a combined output of 791 horsepower and 1,055 pound-feet of torque. This power propels the S63 from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 3.2 seconds, nearly matching the acceleration of a base Corvette, with a top speed electronically capped at 155 mph.
In hybrid mode, power is distributed to all four wheels. The all-wheel-drive system in electric mode activates only when needed, such as when the rear wheels lose traction. Coupled with four levels of regenerative braking, the car manages all-electric driving impressively well.
The S63 boasts a reinforced body, larger brakes, and an array of chassis technologies to enhance both ride quality and handling. The car comes with standard rear-axle steering, which turns the rear wheels in the opposite direction of the front wheels at low speeds for better agility, and in the same direction at higher speeds for added stability. The air suspension includes adaptive damping and automatic leveling, while active roll stabilization can decouple the wheels on an axle to prevent bumps from being transferred from one wheel to the other.
These features together create a versatile and highly capable vehicle. In electric mode, it’s quiet and smooth, fitting the role of a traditional luxury car. However, switching to a sportier driving mode transforms its character, making it nimble and explosively powerful, suitable for spirited driving on winding roads.
Although we don’t have official electric range and efficiency figures yet, a hybrid mode yield of about 13.8 mpg was observed. We weren’t focusing on efficiency during our drive, but it’s a reminder that the S63 emphasizes performance over fuel savings.
A 3.7-kilowatt AC onboard charger is included, though details on charging times or DC fast charging for the U.S. market remain undisclosed.
While it’s unlikely to undergo full crash testing due to its limited production, warranty coverage should mirror other S-Class models with a four-year, 50,000-mile general warranty and a six-year, 62,000-mile warranty for the battery pack.
Mercedes doesn’t offer many customization options for the S63, save for paint colors and interior trim. Pricing is also yet to be announced, but expect it to be priced between the high-end non-AMG S-Class models and the Maybach S-Class, which starts around $194,000.
For those who like to drive rather than be chauffeured, the AMG S63 E Performance plug-in hybrid is an excellent choice. It maintains the core qualities of the base S-Class while introducing a thrilling driving experience. It’s just as enjoyable to drive on winding roads as it is on long highway stretches.
In terms of real-world electric driving, the S63’s electric mode is practical. The engine stays off unless you mash the accelerator, and the car is capable of electric all-wheel drive, extending its electric driving capabilities. The hybrid system allows you to recover a meaningful amount of battery charge after some time using the engine. The S63 genuinely bridges the gap between traditional combustion engines and modern electric powertrains.
As the automotive world evolves, the AMG S63 E Performance reassures that there’s still room for internal combustion engines, particularly for those who aren’t ready to switch to a fully electric vehicle just yet. The AMG S63 E Performance ensures that the era of powerful, performance-focused internal combustion engines hasn’t ended just yet.