2018 Mercedes-AMG S63 Coupe and Cabriolet
Mercedes-AMG is updating its S-Class Coupes and Cabriolets with a host of technical and visual highlights. The new-design front end is dominated by the Panamericana radiator grille, which now gives the two- door, luxury-class Performance vehicles an even more independent look.
In the AMG S63 Coupe and Cabriolet, the Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine with twin-scroll turbochargers and cylinder deactivation (Coupe) supersedes the previous 5.5L V8 biturbo. Despite the smaller displacement, the new engine puts out 603 hp and thus exactly 26 hp more than the preceding model. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission is also new to the Coupe and Cabriolet, as is the fully variable all-wheel drive system AMG Performance 4MATIC+.
At the same time with the new eight-cylinder Coupe and Cabriolet, the top-of-the- range twelve-cylinder S65 Coupe and S65 Cabriolet are given a visual update with the Panamericana radiator grille. The Handcrafted AMG 6.0L V12 biturbo engine retains its output of 621 hp and delivers a maximum torque of 738 lb-ft.
"Having already undertaken major development work on our S-Class Sedan to further enhance driving performance and individuality, we are now making the same changes to the S63 Coupe and Cabriolet. The extensive modifications are designed to strengthen our leading position in this dream car segment in terms of driving dynamics, performance, equipment and comfort on long journeys. The S65 Coupe and Cabriolet with their high-torque 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine remain the most elite form of the S-Class," stated Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
2018 Mercedes-AMG S63 Coupe and Cabriolet
| Mercedes-AMG S63 Coupe & Cabriolet | Mercedes-AMG S65 Coupe & Cabriolet | |
| Engine | Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 engine with direct injection, biturbo forced induction and cylinder deactivation | Handcrafted AMG 6.0L V12 engine with port injection and biturbo forced induction |
| Displacement | 3,982 cc | 5,980 cc |
| Output | 603 hp @ 5,500-6,000 rpm | 621 hp @ 4,800-5,400 |
| Peak torque | 664 lb-ft @ 2,750–4,500 rpm | 738 lb-ft @ 2,300-4,300 rpm |
| Drive system | AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution (LHD only) | Rear-wheel drive |
| Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G | AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 7G |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.4 s | 4.0 s |
| Top speed | 186 mph (electronically limited) | 186 mph (electronically limited( |
Exterior: Panamericana radiator grille and front bumper with new jet wing
The new AMG S-Class Coupes and Cabriolets are instantly identifiable from the front thanks to the AMG Panamericana radiator grille: the V-shaped cooling air intake harmoniously follows the lines of the headlamp housings and is subdivided by chromed, vertical struts. The front bumper resembles a hovering jet wing and is painted in the same color as the vehicle. It is flanked by two large outer air inlets, which are outlined in high-gloss black. The three-dimensional front splitter with its aerodynamically shaped high-sheen chrome edge reduces uplift at the front axle.
The side skirts with three-dimensional inlays in high-sheen chrome give the Coupe and Cabriolet a lower-slung look and generate even more tension in the flanks. Hallmark features of the AMG S-Class models are the large forged light-alloy wheels, measuring 19 inches as standard on the S63 Coupe and Cabriolet and 20 inches on the S65 Coupe and Cabriolet. The exclusive forged wheels on the V12 Coupes and Cabriolets have an unusual and fascinating design: each of the16 spokes twists in a special way so that the light-catching contours radiate to the center of the wheel hub. The effect: The wheel appears larger than its actual dimensions of 8.5 J x 20 at the front and 9.5 J x 20 at the rear. In addition, the ceramic mirror polishing ensure an exclusive look. As standard, the forged wheels feature a high-quality, bolted and fully integrated wheel bolt cover made of forged aluminum. Its shape is reminiscent of a center lock as seen in motorsport. The AMG logotype is incorporated into the rim as a two design variants also painted matt black with a high-sheen rim flange.
The powerful rear end of the S63 and S65 features an updated rear bumper with diffuser insert and the redesigned, model-specific twin tailpipes of the AMG exhaust system.
New and exclusive additions to the Coupe and Cabriolet are the OLED (“organic light-emitting diode”) taillamps. OLEDs are characterized by their thin-film design, which allows curved surfaces to be created, resulting in totally new light designs. A total of 66 OLEDs (33 left and 33 right) produce an unmistakable light signature, which is combined with a Coming Home function.
Other stand-out features of the AMG S-Class Coupes and Cabriolets include the numerous high-sheen chrome design elements (S65) on the front, sides and rear. These are particularly effective in combination with dark paint colors.
Interior: beguiling appointments and design
The stylish character of the new S-Class models from Mercedes-AMG is also evident in the interior: all four models welcome their passengers with a special ambience. The AMG power sports seats with memory function and seat heating offer the driver and front passenger more lateral support. Nappa leather and AMG badges in the front and rear seat backrests create an exclusive atmosphere on board. Special touches include the embossed emblem on the armrest of the front center console and the analogue clock in exclusive IWC design, which features three-dimensional, milled metal hands and genuine metal appliqués on the face.
The three-spoke Performance steering wheel features paddle shifters, a distinctly contoured rim trimmed with perforated leather in the grip area, and a metal insert with AMG logotype. It is optionally available made of Black Nappa Leather/DINAMICA microfiber.
Another hallmark AMG specialty are the displays: the 12.3-inch TFT wide-screen color display reproduces round dials that provide information about engine speed, vehicle speed and additional vehicle data. The driver has a choice of three display designs: Classic, Sport and Progressive. In addition, the AMG menu has been considerably expanded. Among other things, it can display the engine and transmission oil temperature, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, engine output vehicle set-up.
Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine with twin-scroll turbochargers
The Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine in the S63 Coupe and Cabriolet comes exclusively in the highest performance stage to date rated at 603 hp. The peak torque of 664 lb-ft also represents a new maximum and is available across a wide rev range between 2,750 and 4,500 rpm, and thereby provides a sense of superior poise. The sprint from standstill to 60 mph takes just 3.4 seconds, and the fulminating acceleration continues until the electronically limited top speed of 186 mph is reached (electronically limited).
The further advanced AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine utilizes well-proven twin-turbo forced induction, with the two chargers not located outside on the cylinder banks, but rather between them in the V of the cylinders. The advantages of the "hot inside V" are a compact engine design, spontaneous response of the turbochargers and low exhaust emissions thanks to optimal airflow to the near-engine catalysts.
Two twin-scroll turbochargers provide even better fresh-mixture cylinder charge. The results are a higher output, more torque already at low engine speeds, and a very spontaneous throttle response.
'AMG Cylinder Management' cylinder deactivation system
For maximum efficiency, Mercedes-AMG has equipped the V8 engine in the S63 Coupe with the AMG Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation system. In the partial-load range, cylinders two, three, five and eight are deactivated, which significantly lowers fuel consumption.
When the driver has selected the "Comfort" transmission driving mode, the cylinder deactivation system is available in the wide engine speed range from 1,000 to 3,250 rpm. The AMG main menu on the instrument cluster informs the driver whether the cylinder deactivation system is in use and whether the engine is presently operating in the partial or full-load range. The transition from four to eight-cylinder operation is immediate, fast and imperceptible, so that the passengers do not experience any loss of comfort whatsoever. For the first time the S63 Coupe and Cabriolet have been fitted with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission, which convinces with extremely short shift times, lightning reactions to shift paddle commands, a double-clutching function and fast multiple downshifts. A wet start-off clutch replaces the torque converter of the production model. This saves weight and improves the response to the driver's accelerator pedal input, particularly during acceleration and load changes. It also allows the RACE START function.
The extremely high torque of the S65 Coupes and Cabriolets is transferred by the tried and trusted AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission. It delivers convincing tailor-made dynamics and high variability. Whether automatic or initiated by the driver using the steering wheel paddle shifters, upshifts or downshifts are affected quickly and instantly. Especially in the Sport+ and in manual driving modes, the transmission is very fast and responsive.
Fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive
The S63 Coupe and Cabriolet are standard-equipped with fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive. This intelligent system combines the advantages of different drive concepts: The fully variable torque split between front and rear axle, another first, ensures not optimal traction. What is more: the driver is also able to rely on high handling stability and a high level of safety under all conditions, in the dry, in the wet or in snow. The transition from rear-wheel to all- wheel drive and vice versa is seamless, because the intelligent control is integrated into the overall vehicle system architecture.
An electro-mechanically controlled clutch connects the permanently driven rear axle variably to the front axle. The best possible torque split is continuously computed according to the driving conditions and driver's input. The Performance Coupe and Cabriolet can therefore be driven in a continuously variable way from traction-oriented all-wheel drive to purely rear-wheel drive. Transitions are seamless and based on a sophisticated matrix. Alongside traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel drive also improves the longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration.
Specially developed suspension for maximum lateral and longitudinal dynamics
The AMG S63 Coupe and Cabriolet and S65 Cabriolet are equipped with AMG RIDE CONTROL+ suspension with adaptive damping adjustment. Customers can preset the damping to Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus - from relaxed long-distance comfort to dynamic sportiness. Rebound and compression are set independently of each other, which optimizes the adaptation to the driving status and the quality of the road. The freely programmable mapping furthermore allows a wide spread between minimum and maximum damper forces. The difference between the comfortable and sporty suspension setting is thus more refined and is subjectively even more perceptible – depending on the particular driving situation.
The specific front axle kinematics, including a higher wheel camber, bigger stabilizer bar and more rigid subframe mount at the rear axle are another new feature. These measures optimize the agility of the S63 Coupe and Cabriolet when a dynamic driving style is employed.
AMG S65 Coupe: AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with curve inclination function
The AMG S65 Coupe's exclusive AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension prepares for bumps in the carriageway ahead before the vehicle drives over them. To this end, AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL combines the active springs of the suspension with continuously adjustable dampers. The system precisely scans the condition of the road ahead with the help of a stereo camera to adjust the damping of each individual wheel optimally to the upcoming bumps already ahead of time.
The standard curve-tilting function causes the body of the vehicle to tilt to the inside of a turn by up to 2.65 degrees. This significantly reduces the perceived lateral forces and enhances ride comfort.
Depending on the driving mode, the springing behavior can be set to comfortable or sporty to suit personal preferences and/or the curve-tilting function can be activated. The active suspension effectively compensates body roll, squat and dive when moving off the line, in curves and during braking.
The continuously adjustable dampers enable comfortable basic damping and a speed-dependent firm setting clearance. At high speeds, it is lowered by up to 15 mm, reducing drag and increasing driving stability.
Direct and with clear feedback: the AMG speed-sensitive steering
The electromechanical speed-sensitive sports steering in the new AMG S-Class models has a variable steering ratio. It stands out thanks to the AMG-specific rack- and-pinion ratio with its precise, highly authentic feedback. Power assist varies between the stages Comfort, Sport and Sport+. The relevant characteristics are automatically activated depending on the selected DYNAMIC SELECT driving mode or can be personalized in "Individual" mode. At low speeds, the driver only needs to provide minimal steering input. At high speeds, he or she is able to rely on solid straight-line stability. The clearly defined steering center and the authentic feedback likewise contribute to the optimum steering feel.
Good control and fade-resistant: the AMG high-performance compound braking system
The large high-performance composite brake system decelerates the Performance Cabriolet and Coupe reliably and quickly and is fade-resistant even under high loads. The new models are fitted with 15.4 x 1.4 in composite brake discs with 6- piston aluminum fixed calipers at the front axle and 14.2 x 0.9 in discs with single- piston floating brake calipers at the rear axle.
The AMG high-performance ceramic compound braking system is optionally available. The weight savings of more than 20 percent reduce unsprung masses and increase driving dynamics, agility and ride quality. Furthermore, the ceramic brakes are distinguished by a longer service life, higher corrosion resistance and higher thermal stability. It features brake discs of size 16.5 x 1.6 in at the front and of size 14.2 x 1.3 in at the rear. It can be identified visually by the "AMG Carbon Ceramic" lettering on the specially painted brake calipers.
- stage ESP® not only offers safety but driving pleasure too:
- ESP® ON: for a high level of safety by adaptation to the sporty character of the car
- ESP® Sport Handling Mode: allows wider yaw angles before system intervention for a sporty driving style
- ESP® OFF: system deactivated for a sporty driving style on closed circuits
The four different AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual give drivers extensive influence over the new models' characteristics. Each drive program modifies key parameters such as the response of engine, transmission, suspension, steering, ESP® and all-wheel drive in the S63 Coupe and Cabriolet.
The S63 Coupe and Cabriolet also feature the "RACE" drive program, while the S65 Coupe features the drive program "Curve".
Independently of the DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs, the driver has the option of pressing the "M" button to switch directly to manual mode, in which gearshifts are executed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. The suspension set-ups can also be selected if desired. The 3-stage ESP® and the exhaust gas flap can also be controlled using an AMG-specific button.
"Comfort" is the well-balanced drive program with a comfort-oriented suspension and steering set-up. It also offers a consumption-oriented powertrain configuration and early upshifts – with smooth gear changes and a discreet engine sound.
Cylinder deactivation in the S63 Coupe, the ECO start/stop function and Glide mode are active: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between approximately 40 and 100 mph, the clutch of the MCT transmission opens and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The electronics lower the engine speed to idle and driving resistance is reduced by the compression and friction forces of the engine on overrun.
The DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes Sport and Sport+ are designed for high driving dynamics. This is provided by the agile accelerator pedal characteristics with direct set-up and the emotionally appealing gearshifts with shortened shift times and rev-matching function on downshifts.
The increased idle speed in "Sport+“ furthermore makes particularly fast start-offs and even better acceleration from standstill possible.
"RACE" is the program for highly dynamic driving on closed race circuits in which all the parameters are configured for maximum performance.
The "Curve" drive program in the S65 Coupe is active in a speed range between approximately 10 mph and 110 mph. A curve inclination function is integrated in of the turn by up to 2.65 degrees, similar to a motorcycle rider. This reduces the perceived lateral forces and increases the ride quality.
RACE START now even easier
The RACE START function is now also available in the S63 Coupe and Cabriolet. It features a new, significantly simpler control logic: In the Sport or Sport+ driving modes, the driver only has to press hard on the brake pedal with their left foot while simultaneously mashing the accelerator pedal with their right foot. The on- board electronics will then set the optimum engine speed. Depending on the requirements or the road surface conditions, the engine speed can be increased or lowered in a certain range by operating the paddle shifters. If the driver now releases the brake pedal, the vehicle accelerates with optimal traction. The Coupe and Cabriolet are then able to sprint from zero to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds.
Pure sound: the controllable AMG Performance exhaust system
The S63 Coupe and Cabriolet are fitted as standard with the controllable AMG Performance exhaust system to ensure an even more emotionally appealing sound experience. The infinitely adjustable flaps modulate the exhaust note authentically and directly. The flaps open or close dependent on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving mode, but can also be controlled individually with a separate button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT on the center console. In the "Comfort" and "Sport" modes, the low-frequency sound typical of a V-8 emphasizes comfort. In "Sport+“ it is of a much more emotionally appealing nature.
Systematic lightweight design: AMG Lightweight Performance
The stringent implementation of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy also contributes to the high driving dynamics and low fuel consumption. The lightweight construction measures include the use of a lithium-ion starter battery, AMG forged light-alloy wheels and the weight-optimized AMG high-performance composite brake system.
A host of available options
Anyone looking to give their S63 or S65 an even more individual feel can choose from a host of options. The exterior can be tailored to personal preferences with the Night package, attractive alternative wheels and a Carbon Fiber package. In the wheel boosts the sporty character. Carbon fiber/Black Piano lacquer trim parts round off the range of possibilities.
AMG Track Pace
Motor racing enthusiasts can record a range of vehicle data and lap times on the race track with AMG Track Pace in the redesigned AMG S-Class Coupe and Cabriolets. All values are shown on the COMAND display, and in the Widescreen Cockpit the current times can also be read off in the instrument cluster. Based on the data, drivers are able to analyze their driving style with precision and can use the insights gained to improve their lap times.
The redesigned high-performance 2018 S-Class Coupe and Cabriolet will celebrate their World Premiere at the 2017 Frankfurt International Auto Show in September, and will go on sale in the U.S. in mid-2018.
