The Pinnacle of the S-Class Coupe Arrives | Mercedes-Benz
CAR / MOTOR SHOW
January 14, 2015

The Pinnacle of the S-Class Coupe Arrives | Mercedes-Benz


Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe | Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe


The Pinnacle of the S-Class Coupe Arrives




Mercedes-Benzhas announced the "S 63 AMG Coupe," the new flagship coupe positioned at the apex of the S-Class Coupe lineup, which made its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March. It will be presented at the upcoming New York Motor Show. Like the S 63 AMG sedan, it is powered by a 5,461cc V8 twin-turbo engine producing a maximum output of 430kW (585ps) and a peak torque of 900Nm (91.8kgm).



Text by SAKURAI Kenichi




The New Top-Tier Coupe Succeeding the CL 63 AMG


In March,Geneva Motor ShowMercedes-Benz S-Class Coupehas just been unveiled, and an AMG version is already set to debut. The "S 63 AMG Coupe," powered by a 5,461cc V8 twin-turbo engine delivering 430kW (585ps) and 900Nm (91.8kgm), will have its world premiere at the New York Motor Show, opening soon.



While it shares the elegant and dynamic body lines of the S-Class Coupe, it adopts a lower, more aggressive front fascia, refining its two-door coupe styling. The standard wheels are 19 inches, with optional 20-inch wheels available. It's immediately clear to anyone that this is no ordinary S-Class Coupe.


Like theS 63 AMG(sedan), it boasts exceptional driving dynamics, supported by innovative lightweight construction and the power-efficient "BlueDIRECT engine."






The AMG 5.5-liter V8 twin-turbo engine is, of course, part of the BlueDIRECT engine family, and it offers formidable power, second only to the 6-liter V12 engine in theS 65 AMG, which produces 463kW (630ps).

Let's take a closer look at the details of the S 63 AMG Coupe, starting with its exterior design.



Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe | Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe


The Pinnacle of the S-Class Coupe Arrives (2)




Exciting Exterior


The S 63 AMG Coupe features a striking appearance to emphasize its sporty performance. The aerodynamically optimized front end is highlighted by a radiator grille with a 3D "twin blade" design, framed in chrome silver.

The distinctive "A-wing" below the bumper spans the entire width of the front apron, designed in the motif of AMG's initial "A." The cooling air intakes on either side and the chrome silver front splitter are engineered for efficient airflow to the cooling system. The lettering "V8 BITURBO," designed in a contemporary typeface, is also visible here. These shapes and functions are derived from motorsport feedback, and naturally, they also reduce lift on the front axle, optimizing the vehicle's aerodynamics.






Along the sides, sculpted AMG side sill panels with chrome silver accents complement the front and rear, creating a form that clearly sets it apart from the S-Class Coupe, especially when paired with the large-diameter wheels.

The rear view, featuring a high-gloss black diffuser that echoes the front A-wing and a low chrome silver trim, offers design unity and an effective contrast to the elegant coupe body. The dual finisher pipes of the "AMG sports exhaust system" with active exhaust flaps are integrated into the diffuser. Below the taillights, new "S 63" and "AMG" emblems in a contemporary typeface are fitted.



Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe | Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe


The Pinnacle of the S-Class Coupe Arrives (3)




As a Luxury Coupe and a Sports Coupe


The engine, as previously mentioned, is a 5,461cc V8 twin-turbo producing 430kW (585ps) and 900Nm (91.8kgm). This unit, known as the "M157," is still hand-assembled at the Affalterbach factory, adhering to AMG tradition. The renowned engine fitters meticulously assemble each engine entirely on their own, following the "One Man, One Engine" philosophy. This commitment to precision and quality is guaranteed by the engine plate bearing the AMG mark and the engine fitter's signature.

Paired with this power unit is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT utilizes a wet multi-plate clutch instead of a torque converter, enhancing its performance. It delivers a direct feel akin to a manual transmission, rapid gear changes, and high efficiency.






A key feature is the four selectable driving modes to suit your driving preferences. These include "C" (Controlled Efficiency) for fuel economy, "S" (Sport) for sportier performance, "S+" for even faster gear changes, and "M" (Manual) for full manual control via the paddles without automatic upshifts. In "M" mode, a rev-matching function electronically controls double-clutching during downshifts, allowing for more dynamic driving. Drivers can select an exclusive setup tailored to their driving style.

In "C" mode, the AMG sports exhaust system with its active exhaust flaps ensures quiet cruising for relaxation. However, in "S" mode and above, a satisfyingly sporty V8 sound can be enjoyed at full volume under certain conditions. The square exhaust pipes, split to the rear left and right, produce the aggressive symphony characteristic of AMG.



Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe | Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe


The Pinnacle of the S-Class Coupe Arrives (4)




All-Wheel Drive Also Available Alongside Rear-Wheel Drive


In addition to rear-wheel drive, similar to the S 63 AMG sedan, the S 63 AMG Coupe also offers optional AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive for enhanced performance. The engine torque is distributed with a 33% bias to the front and 67% to the rear, providing immense traction while maintaining a rear-wheel-drive feel. This allows the "S 63 AMG Coupe 4MATIC" to achieve 0-100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds, a full 0.3 seconds faster than the rear-wheel-drive "S 63 AMG Coupe" at 4.3 seconds. This is also 0.1 seconds quicker than the sedan. Naturally, 4MATIC also enhances driving safety on wet roads or snowy conditions, delivering high performance regardless of season or road surface.

While the rear-wheel-drive S 63 AMG Coupe features the AIRMATIC air suspension with MAGIC BODY CONTROL, the all-wheel-drive S 63 AMG Coupe 4MATIC comes standard with "AIRMATIC Plus," an advanced version of AIRMATIC equipped with the adaptive damping system "ADS."






TheS-ClassfamiliarMAGIC BODY CONTROLuses a stereo multi-purpose camera located at the top of the windshield to detect road surface undulations up to 15 meters ahead. In conjunction with a lateral G-sensor, this "ROAD SURFACE SCAN" function pre-emptively controls the spring rate and hydraulic damper oil flow of the suspension based on the road conditions ahead, ensuring the body remains consistently level. During cornering, it counteracts vehicle tilt by up to 2.5 degrees, providing an "on-rails" handling sensation.

MAGIC BODY CONTROL offers two distinct programs: "Comfort" mode for relaxed driving and "Sport" mode, showcasing the driving dynamics inherent to AMG. Users can freely select between these based on the road or their mood. The ride comfort and handling delivered by MAGIC BODY CONTROL are truly revolutionary, achieving an unprecedented balance of comfort and sporty performance.



Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe | Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe


The Pinnacle of the S-Class Coupe Arrives (5)




Increased Power and Luxury, Yet Lighter


Contributing to the performance of the S 63 AMG Coupe is its body weight, which is approximately 65kg lighter than its predecessor, theCL 63 AMG. Despite featuring a more powerful engine and luxurious interior appointments along with various electronic devices, the weight reduction was achieved through measures such as the use of lightweight lithium-ion batteries, the development of lighter AMG alloy wheels, a forged AMG high-performance composite brake system, and the incorporation of lightweight materials like aluminum for body panels and aerodynamic components.

Of course, these extensive lightweight measures also contribute to improved fuel efficiency. Compared to the CL 63 AMG, engine output has increased by 30kW (41ps) and 100Nm, yet fuel consumption per 100km (NEDC) is 10.1 liters (9.9 km per liter), making it the most fuel-efficient model in its premium L-segment two-door class. The balance between performance, efficiency, and environmental compatibility, demanded of a sporty coupe, is fitting for the flagship of the Mercedes brand, a leader in environmental performance.






While not employing overtly aggressive aerodynamic elements, the S 63 AMG Coupe's exterior, with its front and rear design, lowered stance, and large-diameter wheels, immediately identifies it as an AMG, striking a balance between luxurious form and aggressive detailing. The standard specification includes multi-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey. The sizes are 8.5x19 inches at the front and 9.5x19 inches at the rear, fitted with 255/45R19 and 285/40R19 tires respectively.

Optionally, customers can choose 10-spoke or 5-spoke forged wheels from the "AMG Performance Studio," finished in high-gloss with titanium grey paint. These forged aluminum wheels feature a center-lock-style bolt cover. An AMG logo is present on one of the spokes, and they can also be finished in matte black.

For braking, an optional AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available, offering shorter stopping distances, optimized weight, and high fade resistance. Compared to the standard brakes, it is over 20% lighter, reducing unsprung weight and enhancing the driving dynamics and stopping power befitting a flagship coupe.



Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe | Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe


The Pinnacle of the S-Class Coupe Arrives (6)




The Most Luxurious Interior in the Mercedes Lineup


Finally, the interior of the "S 63 AMG Coupe" is another highlight, boasting the most luxurious appointments in the Mercedes lineup. The instrument panel features a wraparound design that seamlessly extends into the doors, creating an exceptionally exclusive atmosphere with meticulous finishing using high-quality materials. The newly developed AMG sports seats, with electric adjustment, memory function, and seat heating, are finished in fine Nappa leather. An embossed "AMG emblem" is found on the armrest of the front center console, and AMG badges adorn the back of all seats.

The new 3-spoke AMG sports steering wheel with a D-shaped design is coordinated with the aluminum shift paddles and air vents. The instrument cluster, featuring two high-resolution TFT color displays connected together, is similar to that of the "S-Class," but the meter design is unique to AMG. The AMG instrument cluster, with animated circular dials, red and silver lettering, and needles, displays the AMG logo within the 330 km/h speedometer and "V8 BITURBO" lettering within the tachometer upon engine start.






The S 63 AMG Coupe will have its world premiere at the upcoming New York Motor Show. Orders for the all-wheel-drive "S 63 AMG Coupe 4MATIC" will begin in April, followed by orders for the rear-wheel-drive "S 63 AMG Coupe" in July. Deliveries for both models are scheduled to commence in September.

For the first year after its launch, an exclusive special model, the "Edition 1," will be available. This edition features LED headlamps with Swarovski crystals, NIGHT VIEW ASSIST PLUS, AMG sports seats in Nappa leather (available in black/crystal grey or bengal red/black), and high-gloss black poplar wood trim. Additionally, the front and rear center armrests, roof liner, and sun visors will be finished in "Dynamica microfiber." Based on past trends, the "Edition 1" is expected to be sold in Japan, so it's worth paying close attention when its official announcement is made there.