Mercedes-Benz Introduces the S-Class Flagship, the S 65 AMG

Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG

The flagship S65 AMG joins the S-Class lineup

Announced in Japan this August Mercedes-Benz's flagship model,S-Classwill be joined by the most powerful S65 AMG in its history. The venue for its commemorative world premiere is the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show, which opens to the public on November 22.The 43rd Tokyo Motor Show

Text by SAKURAI Kenichi

World Premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show

Following the "S 63 AMG long" equipped with a 5.5-liter V8 direct-injection twin-turbo engine producing 585ps (430kW) from Mercedes-AMG, and the "S 63 AMG 4MATIC long" featuring AMG's dedicated 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, the "AMG" version of the new "S-Class" will be the flagship model, the most powerful S65 AMG in history.

The commemorative world premiere took place simultaneously at two venues: the Tokyo Motor Show (open to the public from November 22) on November 20, and theLos Angeles Auto Showin the United States. As with the previous model, this new "S 65 AMG" (European model name) is exclusively a long-wheelbase version. It is expected that the Japanese model will be named "S 65 AMG long," following the naming convention of its predecessor.

The engine in focus isPrevious modelthe same 5,980cc V12 twin-turbo as the previous model, producing a maximum output of 463kW (630ps) at 4,800-5,400 rpm. It delivers a maximum torque of 1,000Nm (102kgm) at a low engine speed of 2,300-4,300 rpm. Unsurprisingly, this power is the top specification among current Mercedes models. The NEDC combined fuel consumption is 8.4 km/liter, with CO2 emissions of 279g/km, 0-100km/h acceleration in 4.3 seconds, and a top speed limited to 250km/h.

Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG | Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG

Considering the previous model's fuel consumption of 6.9 km/liter and CO2 emissions of 334g/km, the new model significantly reduces environmental impact while maintaining the same power. This is achieved through features such as low-temperature-compatible intercoolers, alternator management, the ECO start/stop function, and the newly adopted AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic transmission. This engine also complies with Euro 6 standards.

In conjunction with the ECO start/stop function, a 78Ah lithium-ion battery, similar to the "S 63 AMG," has been adopted. This battery serves as both the starter and backup battery, contributing to a weight reduction of 20kg.

This is the first time the "AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic" has been paired with the 6.0-liter V12 twin-turbo engine. Compared to the previously used "AMG Speedshift 5-speed automatic transmission," it offers a wider gear ratio spread, further improving powertrain efficiency.

Additionally, three driving modes—Controlled Efficiency ("C"), Sport ("S"), and Manual ("M")—can be selected with a single switch on the center console. The ECO start/stop function is a standard feature in mode "C."

The driving performance, including the AMG suspension with Magic Body Control and Dynamic Cornering Assist, is consistent with the "S 63 AMG." The interior and exterior are also based on the "S 63 AMG," but the diamond-patterned upholstery design of the Nappa leather seats is exclusive to the "S 65 AMG." Furthermore, the "S 65 AMG" is equipped with AMG high-gloss ceramic multi-spoke alloy wheels, sized 8.5x20 at the front and 9.5x20 at the rear, fitted with 255/40R20 and 285/35R20 tires respectively.

This "S 65 AMG," which inscribes the new "strongest" characters in AMG's history, is priced at 232,050 euros (approximately 30.85 million yen) including 19% VAT in Germany, with deliveries scheduled to begin in March 2014. It is expected to be introduced in Japan around next summer.