South Africa's performance car scene just gained a formidable new contender. The highly anticipated Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance, the new pinnacle of the GT series, has officially touched down on local soil, generating significant buzz. Its arrival follows a debut that cemented its credentials: clinching the coveted ‘King of the Hill’ title in the road and supercar category at the recent Knysna Simola Hillclimb, expertly piloted by Clint Weston.
At the heart of this coupé lies the potent E Performance hybrid system. Combining a V8 engine with an electric motor, it promises immediate reactions and emphatic power delivery. The foundation is innovative motorsport technology, drawing direct inspiration from the championship-winning Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 Team.
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"The sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 2,8 seconds – that's a new benchmark for AMG series models," says Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. "Presenting this car alongside Formula 1 was essential.
“Merging our 4,0-litre V8 with the performance hybrid system creates the definitive top model in our GT family. It blends substantial power with a thrillingly dynamic drive, delivering pure excitement. Simultaneously, it offers extensive equipment options and high-quality materials, positioning it among the most exclusive performance coupés available."
The numbers are compelling. The AMG GT 63 S E Performance pairs a 4,0-litre V8 biturbo engine with an Electric Drive Unit, generating a combined 600 kW and a peak torque figure of 1 420 Nm. The 2,8-second dash to 100 km/h and a top speed of 320 km/h underscore its capabilities. Systems like the standard AMG Active Ride Control suspension with semi-active roll stabilisation and active rear-axle steering aim to bridge dynamic handling with everyday comfort.
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The drivetrain features a distinct layout: the V8 biturbo powers the front axle, while a 150 kW electric motor drives the rear axle, integrating a two-speed transmission and a mechanical limited-slip differential. A lightweight high-performance battery sits above the rear axle. This setup allows the electric motor to deliver power directly for instant boosts during acceleration or overtaking. The AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive seamlessly transfers this electric power to the front wheels when needed, enhancing traction and handling balance.
Crucial to sustained performance is the AMG High-Performance battery, inspired by F1 and developed in Affalterbach. Its breakthrough lies in direct cooling: each of the 560 cells is individually cooled by a specialised, non-flammable coolant, far more efficient than conventional systems. This ensures the battery consistently operates near its optimal 45°C, maintaining peak power delivery and enabling rapid recuperation. The 6,1 kWh battery offers 70 kW continuous and 150 kW peak power, supporting around 13 km of pure electric range (EAER) and recharging via a 3,7 kW onboard charger.
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Mirroring the F1 hybrid strategy, the system prioritises immediate power availability for acceleration out of corners or overtaking. Energy is constantly replenished through strong recuperation. Drivers can tailor the experience through eight AMG DYNAMIC SELECT programmes – from efficient ‘Electric’ and ‘Comfort’ modes to dynamic ‘Sport+’ and track-focused ‘Race’. Four recuperation levels, adjustable via the steering wheel, offer flexibility, with the highest setting enabling significant "one-pedal" driving and feeding over 100 kW back into the battery, acting like a sophisticated engine brake.
Active aerodynamics play a key role. A patented, retractable carbon profile under the front axle extends at speeds above 80 km/h, enhancing downforce via the Venturi effect. The adaptive rear spoiler adjusts through five positions based on speed and driving mode, optimising either stability or efficiency.
The standard AMG Active Ride Control suspension replaces conventional anti-roll bars with interconnected hydraulic elements, dramatically reducing body roll during cornering while improving comfort over uneven surfaces. Active rear-axle steering further enhances agility at lower speeds and stability at higher speeds. Braking is entrusted to a standard AMG ceramic high-performance composite system (420 mm front / 380 mm rear discs), known for immense stopping power, fade resistance, and longevity.
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Visually, the E Performance model is distinguished by a rear integrated charging flap, red model lettering, grooved twin trapezoidal tailpipes, and specific side badging. It rides on standard 20-inch, aerodynamically optimised AMG wheels in tantalum grey. Inside, the driver-focused cockpit offers extensive customisation, including luxurious Nappa leather or sporty microfibre upholstery, and highly supportive, optionally massaging, AMG sports seats.
Pricing:
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE: R 4 369 287
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