New Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe revealed

(March 19, 2014) The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class coupe was revealed in Geneva earlier this month, and now Mercedes has released details of the ultimate version of the new coupe, the S63 AMG 4MATIC. It will be unveiled at the New York Auto Show in April.

Exciting lines underpin this two-door model's design. Mercedes says power and sensual purity combine to give the vehicle irresistible presence and breathtaking performance. Equally impressive is the combination of outstanding driving dynamics, advanced lightweight construction and groundbreaking efficiency.

The AMG 5.5-liter V8 turbocharged engine is a paragon of poise and assurance. Boasting an output of 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, the S63 AMG Coupe delivers exceptional performance with remarkably low fuel consumption. In addition, performance- oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive (33/67% split) will come standard in the U.S. market for optimum traction in any driving situation.

Tobias Moers, chairman of the board of management of Mercedes-AMG said: "The new S63 AMG Coupe is another exciting AMG dream car in the luxury segment. Now the S-Class Coupe also comes with performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive - as we rigorously pursue our all-wheel-drive initiative. 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."

The S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe is the latest model to benefit from the systematic implementation of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy. Lightweight construction has reduced the vehicle weight by up to 140 pounds — even though the car has a higher output and more extensive standard equipment than the preceding model. This weight savings was achieved largely thanks to the use of a lightweight lithium-ion battery, optional AMG forged light-alloy wheels and a weight-optimized AMG high-performance composite braking system.

Furthermore, the entire outer skin and the front end of the body are made of aluminum. The reduced weight improves driving dynamics and cuts fuel consumption, while the low power-to-weight ratio results in impressive performance: the S63 AMG Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 3.9 seconds and goes on to reach a top speed of 186 mph (electronically limited).

In terms of maximum output, torque and fuel consumption, the AMG 5.5-liter V8 turbo engine remains one of the most efficient series-produced V8 engines of all. Compared to the previous CL63 AMG model, engine output has been increased by 41 horsepower and torque by 74 lb-ft. Yet the S63 AMG Coupe still consumes less fuel.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission combines perfectly with the V8 turbo 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.

Emotional and sporty performance or restrained and relaxing cruising: the S63 AMG Coupe even has a choice of bespoke sounds. The AMG sport 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 turbo 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.

Like all AMG V8 and V12 engines, the eight-cylinder turbo engine for the S63 AMG Coupe is assembled by hand at the AMG engine shop in Affalterbach, Germany. 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 high-performance brand.

For the first time, the S63 AMG Coupe comes standard in the U.S. market with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. With permanent all-wheel drive, 33 percent of the engine torque is sent to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle. The rear-biased power distribution provides the signature AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment as well as boosting acceleration from a standing start.

The all-wheel drive also enhances driving safety on wet or wintry road surfaces when equipped with winter tires. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-disc clutch with a locking effect of 37 lb-ft, which maximizes the frictional connection potential of all four wheels.