The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has long stood as the epitome of luxury, a standard that blends refinement with cutting-edge technology. First introduced in 1972, the S-Class quickly gained a reputation for offering the finest materials, the most advanced systems, and unparalleled comfort, making it the choice of discerning drivers worldwide.
Over the years, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has evolved, with each new model continuing to push the boundaries of what a luxury sedan can achieve. Enter the latest iteration of the S63 S E Performance, which is as much the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz’s luxury offering as it is a high-performance hybrid sedan destined to rival the BMW M760e xDrive and Bentley’s Flying Spur Hybrid.
CLASSIC LUXURY, REDEFINED
As with every S-Class, the S63 S E Performance retains the brand’s hallmark commitment to classic luxury. From its buttery-soft seats, which are wrapped in the finest Nappa leather, to the opulent interior finishes, everything about this car screams sophistication. However, after the wizards at AMG have waived their magic wands, the S63 goes more than a step further, marrying the traditional luxury of the S-Class with blistering performance capabilities.
The inclusion of an AMG hybrid powertrain – comprising a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine paired with an electric motor – delivers a combined output of 590 kW and a staggering 1,430 Nm of torque, that’s almost twice that of the Flying Spur Hybrid.
This incredulous setup ensures that the S63 can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds (a full second faster than either of its rivals). Beyond impressive for a car that weighs upwards of three tonnes.
While these figures are undeniably remarkable, its hybrid powertrain doesn’t do as much for fuel economy as one might expect, with real-world figures still falling on the higher side when enjoying Stuttgart’s most discerning saloon to its fullest potential.
ELEGANCE WITH AN EDGE
The exterior design of the S63 S E Performance effortlessly blends timeless elegance with the aggressive, performance-oriented styling of AMG. The flowing lines and bold curves speak to the S-Class’s heritage, while AMG’s influence can be seen in the flared wheel arches, deeper side skirts, and larger front air intakes.
Inside, the cabin is a tech lover’s dream, with Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX system at the heart of it all. A 3D driver’s display, the MBUX rear tablet, and a suite of ambient lighting options ensure that occupants are treated to the most modern environment. The rear seat comfort is particularly impressive, with ample legroom, adjustable seating, and the added luxury of heated and ventilated seats.
Naturally, the S63 can be specified with all manner of luxury and technology features that elevate the experience for drivers and passengers alike.
Despite these lavish features, it must be said that the S63’s sheer size can make it feel cumbersome in tighter spaces. It’s a large vehicle, and while the adaptive air suspension helps smooth the ride, manoeuvring through city traffic or small parking spaces requires a modicum of patience.
SPEED MEETS SUPREME COMFORT
The S63 S E Performance delivers performance like no other. The integration of Mercedes-AMG’s Formula 1 hybrid technology gives the car a unique edge, offering seamless power delivery from the combustion engine and the electric motor. In full EV mode, the car’s quiet, refined operation is a testament to the S-Class’s luxurious nature. Yet, when pushed, the growl of the V8 engine and the instant torque from the electric motor make it clear that this is a performance machine.
RIVALRIES FOR THE AGES
The S63 S E Performance’s rivals – chiefly the BMW M760e and Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid – offer strong competition, particularly regarding performance and luxury. The BMW M760e, with its sharp handling and more driver-focused approach, contrasts with the S63’s blend of power and comfort, leaning more heavily into dynamic agility than outright luxury. Meanwhile, the Flying Spur represents another strong alternative, offering a more traditional luxury sedan experience, though it lacks the high-tech hybrid powertrain of the S63.
In the context of these competitors, the S63 stands out for its power and hybrid sophistication. However, the price tag and the cost of some luxury extras could be considered steep, mainly when similar performance can be found in more compact, less fuel-hungry packages.
LAST WORD
The Mercedes-Benz S63 S E Performance is a true engineering masterpiece, offering the perfect blend of luxury, technology, and performance. The ride quality is sublime, the performance exhilarating, and the design timeless. Yet, there are subtle trade-offs – such as its hefty size, relatively high fuel consumption, and comparative pricing. For those who prioritise comfort, refinement, and cutting-edge tech with a generous dose of AMG performance, the S63 S E Performance remains an unbeatable choice, but whether it’s the best value proposition in its class is open to debate.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © MERCEDES-BENZ SOUTH AFRICA
