Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

The S 63 AMG's the twin turbo V8 is the most powerful in the BlueDIRECT engine family, producing power/torque figures of 430kW (585hp) and 900Nm, with top speed electronically limited to 250 km/h.

Using the "AMG Lightweight Performance" philosophy, the new S 63 AMG is 100 kgs lighter than the model it replaces. Aluminium outer panels and a carbon fibre spare wheel recess shed around four kilograms, but the bulk of the weight saving comes via exclusive AMG forged light-alloy wheels (19-inch standard, 20-inch optional), lightweight lithium-ion battery (which itself saves over 20 kg) and a weight-optimised composite brake system.

In addition to providing an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 3.49 kg/hp, the weight-shedding also improves fuel consumption to 10.1 to 10.3-litres per 100 kms - a 0.4 lt/km improvement over its predecessor, even though engine output is up by 30kW. An ECO stop/start function further improves efficiency, while the engine already meets the EU6 emissions requirements which come into effect in 2015.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission features three modes - "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual). In comfort-oriented "C" mode, the transmission delivers smoother changes and an ECO start/stop function, which shuts off the eight-cylinder engine when the car is at a standstill. In the "S" and "M" modes the engine and transmission are significantly more agile, ECO start/stop is deactivated, and gearshifts are faster.

In concert with this, the AMG sports exhaust system has automatic "logic-controlled" exhaust flaps in both rear silencers. In "C"mode, the flaps remain closed, but in "S" and "M"modes, they open to deliver a louder engine sound

An option with the long wheelbase S 63 AMG, and one which is available for the first time, is the '4MATIC' all-wheel-drive system. This distributes engine torque so that 33 percent goes to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear, for improved traction. The rear-biased distribution enhances driving dynamics and boosts acceleration from a standing start.

4MATIC-equipped S 63 AMG's also come with specific front axle settings and AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension. Rear-wheel drive S 63s feature AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL, which recognises road surface undulations in advance via a front-mounted camera. MAGIC BODY CONTROL adjusts the suspension in advance to suit the upcoming road situation.

All S 63 AMG variants are fitted with speed-sensitive sports steering, which sharpens up to suit engine speed and transmission mode. ESP Curve Dynamic Assist is also standard. This system applies targeted brake intervention on the inside rear wheel to limit understeer and ensure greater agility when taking corners at high speed.

High-performance composite brakes are standard, with AMG's ceramic high-performance brakes available as an option for the first time. The ceramic brakes feature 420mm front discs, are more than 20 percent lighter and have a longer service life.

Typical AMG design features are prominent on the S 63 AMG, including a large front splitter and three large air dams below the signature Mercedes grille, with the side air intakes edged in high-gloss black. A subtle rear diffuser is finished in black and trimmed in silver chrome, along with the two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system.

The S 63 AMG interior features new, fully-adjustable heated AMG sports seats in nappa leather with memory function and an AMG sports steering wheel features perforated leather trim and aluminium shift paddles. Special touches include the embossed AMG emblem on the front centre console and a high-quality IWC Schaffhausen analogue clock.

High-res TFT instrument displays features two animated round dials (on the main display), with the secondary screen showing vehicle configuration (ie. suspension and transmission modes), adjustable via centre console buttons.

Various interior treatments are available as options, including Chauffeur and Exclusive packages, massaging seats, Burmester surround sound system, rear seat folding tables and more.

One of the safest vehicles in its class, new active and passive safety features include 'Driving Assistance Package Plus' and 'Night View Assist Plus', part of combined comfort and safety technology that Mercedes-Benz calls "Intelligent Drive".