WORLD OF COUPE CARS

THE NEW MERCEDES-BENZ S 63 AMG COUPÉ: BREATHTAKING AND IRRESISTIBLE

16.April, 2014 @22:04     Coupe News

The new S 63 AMG Coupé is the latest dream car to augment the Mercedes-AMG model range. Exciting lines underpin this two-door model's design. Dominance and sensual purity combine to lend the vehicle irresistible presence and effortlessly superior sportiness. Equally impressive is the combination of high driving dynamics, ambitious lightweight construction and groundbreaking efficiency. As the most powerful member of the BlueDIRECT engine family, the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine is a paragon of poise and assurance. Boasting an output of 585 hp and 900 Nm of torque, the S 63 AMG Coupé delivers exceptional performance with remarkably low fuel consumption. And there is a world first in the shape of the curve tilting function, part of the MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension system, to further enhance both driving pleasure and comfort.

Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "The new S 63 AMG Coupé is another exciting AMG dream car in the luxury segment. Mercedes-AMG is putting the pedal to the metal again in the new year. Our model initiative is set to continue at blistering pace in 2014."

65 kilograms lighter thanks to AMG Lightweight Performance

The S 63 AMG Coupé is the latest model to benefit from the systematic implementation of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy. Lightweight construction has reduced the vehicle weight by 65 kilograms – even though the car has a higher output and more extensive standard equipment than the predecessor model. This weight saving was achieved largely thanks to the use of a lightweight lithium-ion battery, AMG forged light-alloy wheels and a weight-optimised AMG high-performance composite braking system.

Furthermore, the entire outer skin and the front end of the body are made of aluminium. The reduced weight improves driving dynamics and cuts fuel consumption, while the low power-to-weight ratio of 3.41 kg/hp results in effortlessly superior performance: the S 63 AMG Coupé accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.9 to 4.3 seconds, depending on model variant, and goes on to reach a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited).

In terms of maximum output, torque and fuel consumption, the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine remains one of the most efficient series-produced V8 engines of all. With an output of 585 hp and 900 Nm of torque, the AMG eight-cylinder unit from the BlueDIRECT engine family meets even the most demanding of requirements. Compared to the previous CL 63 AMG model, engine output has been increased by 41 hp and torque by 100 Nm. Yet the S 63 AMG Coupé still consumes less fuel: The NEDC combined figure of 27.9 mpg makes the two-door model the most fuel-efficient model in its competitive segment. Compliance with the EU6 emissions standard shows that performance, efficiency and environmental compatibility are by no means mutually exclusive at Mercedes-AMG.

The model at a glance:

  S 63 AMG Coupé
Displacement 5461 cc
Output 585 hp
at 5500 rpm
Max. torque 900 Nm
at 2250-3750 rpm
Fuel consumption
NEDC combined
27.9 mpg
CO2 emissions 237 g/km
Kerb weight
(according to EC)
1995 kg*
2070 kg**
Power-to-weight ratio 3.41 kg/hp
Acceleration
0-62 mph
4.3 s
Top speed 155 mph***

* ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, without driver and luggage); ** ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg); *** electronically limited.

AMG sports exhaust system with automatic exhaust flaps

Emotive and sporty performance or restrained and relaxing cruising: the S 63 AMG Coupé even has a choice of bespoke sounds. The AMG sports exhaust system meets individual driver requirements as it 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. 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, hallmark AMG emotive engine sound.

"One man, one engine": a tradition of hand-built excellence

Like all AMG V8 and V12 engines, the eight-cylinder biturbo engine for the S 63 AMG Coupé is assembled by hand at the AMG engine shop in Affalterbach. Highly qualified engine fitters assemble the engines in Affalterbach according to the strictest quality standards based on the "one man, one engine" philosophy. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative precision and production quality, the AMG engine plate bearing the engine technician's signature also attests to the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand.

Individuality: AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission combines perfectly with the V8 biturbo engine. Maximum agility and exciting dynamics are the two key strengths of this transmission, which is used exclusively at AMG. Drivers can configure their own personal set-up, depending on their driving style. There are three modes to choose from: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual). The ECO start/stop function is fitted as standard.

Curve tilting function is a world first 

The S 63 AMG Coupé with rear-wheel drive features AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL. There is also a world first for series-produced cars in the shape of the curve tilting function. This function allows the S 63 AMG Coupé to lean into bends in a manner similar to a motorcyclist or skier. The lateral acceleration acting upon occupants is reduced in a way akin to when driving in a steep curve, and passengers sit more firmly. On country roads in particular, the new curve tilting function enhances motoring enjoyment and comfort. The object is not to reach higher cornering speeds, but to produce an even more pleasant motoring experience. The curve tilting function can be selected as one of three drive modes using the ABC switch; it is active in the speed range from 19 to 112 mph.

In addition to the curve tilting function, the MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension system includes ROAD SURFACE SCAN and Active Body Control (ABC) as standard. With Active Body Control the suspension struts are equipped with hydraulic cylinders (so-called plungers), in order to adjust the force in each strut individually. Depending on the curve driven, the curve tilting function shifts the base point of each individual strut. This allows the vehicle to incline automatically and continuously in fractions of a second and to angles of up to 2.5 degrees in curves – depending on the road angle and vehicle speed. The innovative suspension system detects curves using both a stereo camera behind the windscreen, registering the curvature of the road up to 15 metres ahead, and an additional lateral acceleration sensor.

ROAD SURFACE SCAN is a technology that can detect surface undulations in advance with the help of a stereo camera.  MAGIC BODY CONTROL then adjusts the suspension in advance to suit the situation. Both suspension modes – "Comfort" and "Sport" – are also available here. The AMG-specific elastokinematics also ensure more directness when adopting a dynamic driving style.

Systematic lightweight construction: AMG forged wheels as standard

The S 63 AMG Coupé is equipped with AMG forged light-alloy wheels as standard. This design reduces weight while at the same time increasing strength.

The lower unsprung masses result in advantages in terms of handling and spring/damper element response. In the standard specification, the S 63 AMG Coupé is fitted with multi-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish – 8.5 x 19 at the front and 9.5 x 19 at the rear, with 255/45 R 19 and 285/40 R 19 tyres respectively.

Optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio include 10-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey with a polished finish – 8.5 x 20 at the front and 9.5 x 20 at the rear, with 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 tyres respectively. The forged wheels feature a high-quality, screwable and fully integrated wheel bolt cover made of forged aluminium. Its shape is reminiscent of a centre lock as seen in motorsport. The AMG logo is integrated into one of the 10 spokes. As an option, these forged wheels are also available painted in matt black with a high-sheen rim flange. Alternatively, forged wheels of the same sizes in a five-twin-spoke design painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and a black wheel bolt cover are available.

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

Short stopping distances and rapid deceleration are a given for the S 63 AMG Coupé, which 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. The more than 20 percent lighter design ensures lower unsprung masses as well as enhanced driving dynamics, agility and ride comfort.

Design: AMG combines sensual purity with effortlessly superior sportiness

The S 63 AMG Coupé also boasts exciting looks to emphasise its sporty performance: it exudes dominance and hallmark Mercedes-Benz sensual purity. The design is a stage for the exciting technology at the heart of the new dream car. Numerous aerodynamic elements underline the outstanding driving dynamics: the front end is dominated by the three-dimensional AMG "twin-blade" radiator grille in silver chrome. Whether the car is moving or not, distinctive AMG lettering on the side between the louvres leaves no doubt: this is a high-performance model from Affalterbach. The A-wing is located below the radiator grille. This three-dimensional air-ducting element is painted in the body colour, spans the entire width of the front apron and displays the stylised "A" that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles. Large, black flics surround the outer cooling air intakes. Down below, the front splitter in silver chrome optimises the flow of air to the cooling modules. This design feature, which is a familiar sight in motorsport, also reduces front-axle lift and optimises the vehicle's aerodynamic balance.

All of the cooling air grilles exude high quality with their high-gloss-black paint finish. Keeping the A-wing and front splitter separate makes the car appear closer to the road. A similar effect is created by the AMG side sill panels with their high-quality, three-dimensional inserts in silver chrome. Together with the lower feature line, these inserts make the S 63 AMG Coupé exude dynamism even when it is at a standstill. Further eye-catching features of the side design include the large AMG forged wheels. "V8 BITURBO" lettering in a new, contemporary typography on the front wings is another hallmark AMG design touch.

At the rear, the diffuser insert in high-gloss black also catches the eye straight away. The lower trim element in silver chrome is reminiscent of the A-wing at the front and provides an effective contrast. The two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system with sports flaps are perfectly integrated into the diffuser insert. Stylised, vertical air outlets in the rear apron assume the role of a defined spoiler lip and optimise aerodynamics. The "S 63 AMG" model designation in a new, contemporary typography below the tail lamps adds the perfect finishing touch to the rear-end design.

Interior: beguiling luxury, quality and sporty exclusivity

Opening the door reveals the beguilingly luxurious interior of the S 63 AMG Coupé: the instrument panel almost seamlessly transitions into the doors in a wrap-around design. High-quality materials and fine workmanship are combined with a sporty, exclusive design idiom. The newly developed AMG sports seats with electrical adjustment, memory function and seat heating offer the driver and front passenger optimum lateral support. Fine nappa leather in AMG V8 design with piping and AMG badges on all four seat backrests together with the embossed AMG emblem on the armrest of the front centre console create an exquisite atmosphere on board.

The new three-spoke AMG sports steering wheel with its distinctively contoured rim and perforated leather in the grip area allows perfect vehicle control. There is an AMG logo in the lower metal insert. New aluminium shift paddles shorten the reaction time when changing gear and enhance dynamism. 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 specific lettering and the needles in red/silver, further distinctive design features include the AMG start-up display, the AMG logo in the speedometer with 207 mph scale (left) and the "V8 BITURBO" lettering in the rev counter (right).

The new, innovative touchpad, fitted as standard, makes it significantly easier to operate the radio, telephone and navigation system.

World premiere and market launch in 2014 

The S 63 AMG Coupé will have its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in April 2014. UK market launch will be by the end of 2014. UK pricing and specification is still to be confirmed.