The Alluring Top-Tier Coupé and Convertible

Large coupés and convertibles from Mercedes-Benz have always been captivating. They masterfully utilize their size to offer a comfortable ride, potent power, and an undeniably elegant style.

In September 2017, a minor model update was announced, featuring a new 4-liter V8 engine. The accompanying press event for international journalists was held slightly later, at the end of November, in and around Los Angeles.

Mercedes-Benz S 560 4MATIC Coupe

Mercedes-Benz S 560 Cabriolet

The coupé and convertible, with their generous dimensions slightly exceeding five meters in length, have been a signature genre for Mercedes-Benz since before the war. Especially after the war, since the launch of the "300SE" coupé and convertible in the early 1960s, they have held a firm position in this segment.

The current lineup remains extensive, with coupés and convertibles also available for theC-ClassandE-Classmodels, respectively. It goes without saying that the S-Class sits at the pinnacle.

Our test drive event began at a hotel in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. The vehicles provided were the Mercedes-Benz S 560 4MATIC Coupe and S 560 Cabriolet (rear-wheel drive), along with the Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+ Coupe and Cabriolet.

Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+ Coupe

Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+ Cabriolet

The S 560 and S 63 are powered by essentially the same 3,982cc unit. While the former produces a maximum output of 345 kW (469 hp) and 700 Nm of torque, the latter delivers 450 kW (612 hp) and 900 Nm.

Furthermore, the Mercedes-AMG S 65, equipped with a 5,980cc V12 engine, was also available in both coupé and convertible body styles as a special order. This is an exceptionally luxurious lineup.

Comfortable Ride, Undeniable Performance

The driving impressions were subtly distinct for each model, making for an interesting experience. The Mercedes-Benz S 560 4MATIC Coupe leans heavily towards comfort, with a fundamentally soft suspension setting.

Of course, with 700 Nm of torque available from just 2,000 rpm, its mid-range acceleration is far beyond that of a typical sporty sedan. The manufacturer's claimed 0-100 km/h acceleration time is a mere 4.6 seconds.

Mercedes-Benz S 560 Cabriolet

Mercedes-Benz S 560 4MATIC Coupe

Los Angeles is famous for the Pacific Coast Highway, a scenic route along the coast. Here, the relaxed ride quality perfectly complements the drive, making it easy to understand the historical appeal of previous generations of this car, beloved in California.

This engine replaces the previous 4.7-liter V8 and has already proven its capabilities in the S 560 sedan. Although the displacement is smaller, the power has increased from 335 kW (445 hp) to 345 kW (469 hp).

In the coupé, in particular, the "Camtronic" valve lift control system deactivates four cylinders under light load. This not only increases power but also reportedly improves fuel efficiency by 8 percent.

The impression remains largely the same for the rear-wheel-drive S 560 Cabriolet. Although it features a fully retractable soft top, the windshield extends above the front occupants' heads, virtually eliminating wind buffeting. For cooler weather, the Airscarf system provides warm air around the neck.

Mercedes-Benz S 560 4MATIC Coupe

Both the coupé and convertible meticulously absorb road imperfections, and the cabin remains remarkably quiet while driving. The optional "Designo" nappa leather seats in the test car, with their perforated finish, offered a comforting embrace.

The S63: More Sporty and Aggressive

The new coupé and convertible may appear more aggressive due to revised air dam designs. Simultaneously, the rear taillights utilize organic LEDs. Sixty-six ultra-thin light-emitting diodes lend a unique "expression" to the rear.

The Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+ demonstrates a higher level of refinement as a sports model. Its most distinctive exterior feature is the adoption of the Panamericana grille, characterized by its vertical bars.

This design is a modernized interpretation of the grille found on the 300SL, which competed in the Carrera Panamericana México road race in the 1950s (the Porsche 911 Carrera also derives its name from this event). It's a motif previously seen on the AMG GT.

Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+ Cabriolet

Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+ Cabriolet

Additionally, the aggressive styling, featuring large air dams, is common to the S 63 4MATIC+. The suspension settings are sportier, noticeably firmer than those of the S 560 models.

Compared to the previous 5.5-liter V8, it now uses a 4-liter V8. Despite this, the power has increased by 20 kW (27 hp) to 450 kW (612 hp), with a substantial 900 Nm of torque.

Whether on the freeway or winding roads, the car's excellence lies in its superb driving dynamics. The "AMG Ride Control+" suspension system impresses with its ability to deliver optimal ride comfort and handling according to driving conditions.

The car's response to the steering wheel, which offers good feedback even near the center, combined with a moderate sense of roll, provides a unique and satisfying sensation, distinct from that of a pure sports car.

In fact, after this, I also drove the Mercedes-AMG S 65, equipped with "Magic Body Control" which suppresses body roll to up to 2.65 degrees during cornering.

Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+ Cabriolet

The truth is, the normal mode, rather than the "Curve" mode, was preferable due to its more appropriate roll angle. Ultimately, this speaks to the fundamental excellence of the design.

I was particularly fond of the driving feel of the Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+. The flat ride provided by the adaptive "AMG Ride Control+" dampers is also superb.

With the "Air Body Control" suspension, the vehicle lowers by 10 mm when exceeding 120 km/h. Even then, the ride comfort is unaffected. It maintains a smooth ride at all times.

Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+ Cabriolet

Mercedes-Benz S 560 Cabriolet

The chassis, as before, is based on the E-Class, but the use of lightweight alloys such as aluminum and magnesium for reinforcement ensures torsional rigidity while simultaneously pursuing high handling precision.—Experiencing various roads makes Mercedes-Benz's explanations truly resonate.

Elegant yet offering enjoyment beyond the ordinary standard, the S-Class Coupé and Cabriolet have solidified their unique reason for existence, making them the biggest selling points.

They are scheduled for introduction in Japan in 2018. Mercedes-Benz Japan states that details will be announced later.