THE NEW MERCEDES-BENZ S 63 AMG: DRIVING PERFORMANCE IN THE LUXURY SEGMENT

2013 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

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 AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine – the most powerful member of the BlueDIRECT engine family, with an output of 585 hp and torque of 900 Nm – delivers effortlessly superior performance. Thanks to systematic lightweight construction based on the "AMG Lightweight Performance" philosophy, the S 63 AMG is up to 100 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. A combination of an efficient drive system and reduced weight results in an NEDC combined fuel consumption of 27.4 – 27.9 mpg (237 to 242 g/km CO₂).

Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "Following the successful launch of the A 45 AMG and the CLA 45 AMG, the new S 63 AMG highlights our expertise in the automotive high-end segment. Lightweight construction and absolute performance are among the key strengths of the new flagship model from Mercedes-AMG."

Tobias Moers, Head of Overall Vehicle Development and Board Member of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "We have unquestionably achieved our aim of making the new S 63 AMG more powerful, lightweight and efficient than its predecessor. In terms of driving dynamics as well, the S 63 AMG has made giant leaps forward."

AMG Lightweight Performance: up to 100 kg lighter than before

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 AMG forged light-alloy wheels, a lightweight lithium-ion battery and a weight-optimised AMG high-performance composite brake 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 3.49 kg/hp, resulting in effortlessly superior performance. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph takes 4.0 to 4.4 seconds, depending on model variant, and the top speed is 155 mph (electronically limited).

The models at a glance:

	S 63 AMG Short wheelbase	S 63 AMG Long wheelbase*	S 63 AMG 4MATIC Long wheelbase
Displacement	5,461 cc	5,461 cc	5,461 cc
Output	585 hp at 5,500 rpm	585 hp at 5,500 rpm	585 hp at 5,500 rpm
Max. torque	900 Nm at 2,250-3,750 rpm	900 Nm at 2,250-3,750 rpm	900 Nm at 2,250-3,750 rpm
Fuel consumption NEDC combined	27.9 mpg	27.9 mpg	27.4 mpg
CO₂ emissions	237 g/km	237 g/km	242 g/km
Kerb weight (according to EC)	1,970 kg 2,045 kg*	1,995 kg 2,070 kg*	1,995 kg 2,070 kg*
Acceleration 0-62 mph	4.4 s	4.4 s	4.0 s
Top speed	155 mph****	155 mph****	155 mph****

* Only available as right-hand drive;
** Ready-to-drive condition (Fuel tank filled 90%, without driver and luggage); *** Kerb weight (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 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 lower than that of the predecessor model, even though the engine output has been increased by up to 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:

Direct petrol injection with piezo injectors
Biturbocharging
All-aluminium crankcase
Four valves per cylinder with camshaft adjustment
Air-to-water intercooler
Efficient cooling of engine oil, engine water and transmission oil
Lightweight composite oil pan
Alternator management
ECO start/stop function

AMG sports exhaust system with exhaust flaps

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.

Engine production at AMG

Like all AMG 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 badge bearing the engine fitter's signature also attests to the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand.

Lithium-ion battery reduces weight by over 20 kilograms

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.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed sports transmission

Maximum individuality and custom-tailored dynamics are the strengths of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed sports transmission. The three transmission modes – "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual) – provide each driver with a personal set-up. 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 addition, the driver experiences smooth transmission characteristics with comfort-oriented gearshifts. In "C" mode the car generally 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.

All variants of the S 63 AMG are fitted with ESP^® Curve Dynamic Assist as standard. A targeted brief brake intervention on 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 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.

Electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with variable steering ratio is the perfect complement as it greatly enhances vehicle handling and agility whilst 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 sportily stiff steering assistance – which tends to result in better road feel. The pre-programmed curves for power assistance enhance feedback and steering precision.

AMG light-alloy wheels based on systematic lightweight construction

For the first time, the S 63 AMG is available exclusively with AMG forged light-alloy wheels. This design reduces weight whilst increasing strength and lowers the unsprung masses, resulting in advantages in terms of handling and spring/damper element response. In the standard specification, the S 63 AMG is fitted with AMG light-alloy wheels that are painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish – size 8.5x19 at the front and 9.5x19 at the rear with 255/45 R 19 and 285/40 R 19 tyres respectively.

Optional extras include AMG forged light-alloy wheels, painted titanium grey and polished, with size 8.5x20 at the front and 9.5x20 at the rear paired with 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 tyres respectively. The AMG light-alloy wheels feature a high-quality, screwable and fully integrated wheel bolt cover made of forged metal. 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 can also be supplied painted matt black with a high-sheen rim flange. As an alternative in the same format, there is a "Siena" designer variant with five twin spokes, which is painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and has a black wheel bolt cover.

AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake systemas an option for the first time

Extremely short stopping distances and spontaneous 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 first time. The more than 20 per cent 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 calipers.

Design: dynamism and exclusivity fused with sensuous forms

Powerful and exclusive, dynamic and prestigious – the new S 63 AMG also makes a visual impression. The high-performance saloon's design is defined by the impressive blend of hallmark sensual Mercedes 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 three large air dams. The front apron with the grille 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 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 brand's hallmark "Dropping Line". Large light-alloy wheels are another trademark AMG feature: they afford a clear view of the AMG high-performance brake 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.

Interior: beguiling appointments, design and quality

Like the exterior design, the S 63 AMG interior is a beguiling combination of the sportily exclusive atmosphere of a true AMG automobile 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 lavish perforations and AMG badges in the front and rear seat backrests create 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 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 205 mph scale (left) and the "V8 BITURBO" lettering in the rev counter (right).

Selecting "Warm up" in the AMG main menu brings up two round dials indicating the engine oil and transmission oil temperatures. Vehicle configuration, for example activation of a certain transmission and suspension mode, is effected in the AMG main menu "Setup" by means of buttons on the centre console. An animated S 63 AMG on the TFT display between the speedo and rev counter gives the driver visual feedback. The upper section of the display contains a permanent gear indicator and, when manual transmission mode "M" is selected, also an upshift recommendation. At the lower edge, the activated transmission mode, the ESP^® mode and the suspension set-up are displayed.

Further standard equipment for all S 63 AMG models includes:

AMG door sill panels
AMG floor mats
AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
Ambient lighting
Attention Assist
Collision Prevention Assist
COMAND Online
10 loudspeakers with Frontbass
Metallic paintwork
Pre-Safe^® Plus
Tyre pressure loss warning system
LED High Performance headlamps

Numerous individualisation options are available from the AMG Performance Studio and include:

AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package
AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system
AMG carbon-fibre engine cover
AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather / Dinamica, black
AMG trim in carbon fibre/black piano lacquer
Brake calipers, painted red

Additional optional extras include:

Air-Balance package
Burmester^® surround sound system
Burmester^® high-end 3D surround sound system
Business Telephony in the rear
Chauffeur package
designo appointments packages
Executive seat
Exclusive package
First-Class rear suite
Folding tables in the rear
LED Intelligent Light System
Seat Comfort package incl. Energising massage function
Warmth Comfort package

Intelligent Drive: new standards in safety
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:

Driving Assistance package Plus
Night View Assist Plus

World premiere in September 2013

Video : 2013 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG - HD

Video : 2013 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Design / Interior - HD

Images : 2013 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG