THE FIRST Mercedes-AMG four-door coupé to employ plug-in hybrid technology is being hailed as “a new milestone in the company’s history”.
Starting from £173,655, the GT 63 S E Performance is a 831bhp mega saloon that can crack the 0-62mph sprint in 2.9 seconds and go on to a top speed of 196mph.
The GT 63 S E Performance relies on a 4-litre, twin-turbo V8 and a 201bhp rear-mounted electric motor. Weighing just 89kg, the e-motor draws its power from a 6.1kWh, 400-volt battery pack.
Mercedes-AMG claims the ‘P3 drive system’ – which pushes the total torque figure up to 1084lb ft – has been inspired by the company’s title-winning Formula 1 team.
Despite its headline grabbing statistics, the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-hybrid rival can travel up to 7.5-miles on battery energy alone at speeds up to 81mph. Overall efficiency on the WLTP cycle is quoted at 35.8mpg and exhaust emissions at 180g/km CO2.
The German company says the PHEV set-up ensures “superior driving performance and outstanding driving dynamics with impressive efficiency at the same time”.
The E Performance comes with a fully adjustable ‘AMG Ride Control+’ suspension, with ‘Comfort’ promising “smooth gliding” and ‘Sport’ “particularly dynamic driving”. These pre-programmed settings can also be altered one of three ways via a button.
The ESP, four-wheel drive and electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential are handled by Mercedes-AMG’s ‘AMG Dynamics’ system. It has been tuned to “increase agility without negatively affecting the vehicle’s stability”.
Speed is scrubbed off with help from a lightweight, carbon ceramic system that incorporates regenerative braking with four levels of recuperation. Therefore, in certain situations, one-pedal driving is possible.
The E Performance is marked out by black 21-inch, 5-spoke forged alloy wheels, special badging and new exhaust outlets.
Options include a ‘Night Package’ that comprises high-gloss black and dark chrome, and an ‘Aerodynamics Package’ for improved airflow and high-speed stability.
Inside, the sports seats are upholstered in Exclusive nappa leather in two-tone titanium grey pearl/black with yellow contrast stitching. Customers can request the AMG Performance seats, however, as well as piano black or carbon AMG trim elements. A panoramic glass sunroof is standard.
The first deliveries of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance are due to start in April.
