The top-of-the-line Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance makes its debut this week, promising a whole new level of driving experience to lovers of the three-pointed star marque’s oldest range. The car uses a hybrid powertrain derived from Mercedes F1 tech to drive up its output to a whopping 805 hp.
Design
The new Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance benefits from all the goodies offered by the base SL 63. It comes with the Mercedes high-performance division’s wide Panamericana front grille with vertical slats, spoilers, rear diffuser, LED lamps, “Affalterbach AMG” badge, 10 twin-spoke wheel design wrapped in sports tires, quadruple tailpipes, and carbon fiber inserts.
Meanwhile, the interior is equipped with AMG Performance seats lined with high-quality Nappa leather covers with diamond stitching patterns. This is complemented by a well-positioned armrest, special floor mats, multi-function steering wheel, and large screens with AMG-specific graphical interface.
Powertrain
The true difference between the standard SL 63 and the S E Performance variant shines within their power configurations though. The former packs a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine capable of producing up to 577 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the latter sports a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) specification combining the internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor mounted on the rear axle delivering a total of 805 hp and 1,047 lb-ft.
All that goes to an all-wheel-drive system and is managed via a nine-speed automatic transmission. This combo lets the auto rip from zero to 60 mph in around 2.8 seconds on the way to an electronically capped top speed of 196 mph.
In EV mode, the permanently excited synchronous electric motor is already enough to provide 201 hp and 236 lb-ft. The motor possessing an energy recuperation function is aided by an electrically-shifted two-speed transmission and juiced up by a 6.1 kWh battery. The electric range of the vehicle is yet to be announced but Mercedes emphasizes that its primary purpose is to boost the engine rather than being driven on full electric power.
Drive Modes
There are eight drive modes to choose from in the SL 63 E Performance. These include Electric, Battery Hold, Comfort, Slippery, Sport, Sport+, Race, and Individual. Each one is tailored to the preference of the driver in terms of efficiency or dynamic performance.
Each program adjusts the important parameters of the car like the transmission response, handling, suspension damping, and sound. The first seven modes already come with preset characteristics while the Individual allows the driver to adjust the parameters manually based on their requirements.
Agility and Braking
Another notable standard feature of the SL 63 E Performance is its active rear-axle steering. Partnered with the AMG Ride Control, this offers better handling, enhanced comfort, and less steering effort on the part of the driver.
A composite brake system is fitted in the car with carbon ceramic brake discs, six-piston calipers at the front, and one-piston floating calipers at the rear. The lightweight materials lessen unsprung mass and ensure short braking capabilities while unburdening the auto with extra weight.
Market Rollout and Pricing of the New Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance
There’s no word yet about the availability of the new Mercedes-AMG SL 63 E Performance in US dealerships. However, it should follow up shortly or even coincide with its European rollout.
There’s no mention of its pricing as of yet, too. For reference, the base SL 63 has an MSRP of $184,150, so the cost should go north from there.
Photo Gallery of the New Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance
AMG’s Official Statement During Launch of the New SL 63 S E Performance
“The SL has always been an icon in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio. The latest version of the legendary roadster transfers this status into the future. First and foremost is the new SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE, which, with its innovative technology, is the most powerful member of the SL family. With this unique concept, we offer our customers not only superior performance but also the option of all-electric driving. Extensive equipment options and the high-quality materials used also make the SL one of the most exclusive roadsters on the market – a real dream car.”
Mercedes-AMG CEO Michael Schiebe