When Mercedes-Benz first introduced the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé back in 2018 people were a little confused. Many thought Mercedes was really milking it by giving what was effectively the new CLS 63 a different model designation in order to create more hype. However, although the GT 4-Door does share much in common with the third-generation CLS, it's still an incredibly compelling performance sedan - especially in GT63 S guise.
The GT 4-Door received a minor facelift for 2022 and the addition of a new plug-in hybrid model, the GT63 S E Performance. In total, five variants are currently sold: the 362 hp GT43, the 429 hp GT53, the 577 hp GT63, the 639 hp GT63 S, and finally the new 843 hp GT63 S E Performance.
Note: While we wait for official word from consumers on the upcoming GT63 S, HotCars' 'Costs, Facts, And Figures' rating defaults to 1 out of 10. Once we start fielding what owners think of this upcoming vehicle, we'll be sure to update the score to reflect what drivers think.
Mercedes-AMG GT63 S
- Available plug-in hybrid powertrain
- 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system
- AMG Performance exhaust
- Model: GT63 S E Performance
- Engine/Motor: 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8/6.1 kWh battery
- Horsepower: 843 hp
- Torque: 1,143 lb/ft
- Drivetrain: AWD
- Transmission: 9-speed multi-clutch automatic
- Brutal acceleration
- Fantastic combination of performance and luxury
- One of the most powerful sedans on sale
- 9-speed sequential gearbox can be sluggish
- Significantly more expensive than most rivals
An Abundance Of Power
The GT63 S and GT63 S E Performance sit at the top of the GT 4-Door range. A 639 hp 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 powers the standard GT63 S. Meanwhile, the E Performance pairs that 4.0-liter V8 with a 6.1 kWh battery. As a result the GT63 S E Performance has an 843 hp output, which makes it the most powerful non-electric sedan in the world. Thanks to all its power, the E Performance can launch from 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds. For reference, the standard GT63 S takes around 3.1 seconds to reach 60 mph. Both versions of the GT63 S max out at 196 mph.
Although it weighs up to 2,380 kg (5,247 lbs) the GT63 S still handles like a performance car should. That's thanks to a myriad of driving modes that adapt the car's chassis to different conditions.
For example, drivers can choose from Sport, Sport+, Race, and Wet depending on the circumstances. Each mode alters the drivetrain and adjusts steering sharpness. Furthermore, since it's a PHEV the GT63 S E Performance can run solely on battery power at speeds of up to 80 mph. However, given it only has a 6.1 kWh battery don't expect more than 10-15 miles of all-electric range.
The GT63 S also has the ability to switch from AWD to RWD. With the click of a button, drivers can engage Drift Mode and have endless fun flicking out the back of their 2.4-ton sedan.
Still Incredibly Luxurious
Although the GT63 S is performance-oriented, inside it's still very plush. That said, it is a little dated - the GT63 S features the same widescreen cockpit layout as the previous-gen S-Class. This means two 12.3" screens dominate along with four central air vents. That said, although the physical layout remains the same as a 2013 S-Class, hardware and software are more modern with responsive voice command and the latest version of Merc's MBUX infotainment setup. Furthermore, the recent facelift added touchscreen capabilities for the central display. Previously, a touchpad was your only option for controlling the infotainment system.
The GT63 S is an excellent long distance cruiser, with an abundance of driver assistance tech available. The Driver Assistance Package brings active steering assist, lane keeping, emergency braking and plenty of other useful autonomous features.
Although much of the interior is identical to the CLS, the GT63 S has the same center console as the AMG GT to give a more sporty feel. Heated electric seats, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and 64-color LED ambient lighting are all standard. Lots of additional luxury touches, like ventilated seats and a Burmester High-End 3D Surround Sound system, are optional extras. Rear passengers get sufficient legroom, meanwhile there's 12.7 cubic feet of trunk space.
A Hefty Price To Pay
The GT 4-Door range starts at $93,550. That's for the 362 hp GT43 though, which is undoubtedly a far cry from the GT63 S. The mid-range GT53 comes in at $103,650. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz USA isn't currently taking orders for the GT63, GT63 S and GT63 S E Performance due to ongoing supply chain issues. Hence, prices for the forthcoming model year are still unknown for all three. However, all versions of the GT 4-Door are on sale in Europe and US availability should ease up in the coming months.
Last year, the GT63 started at $140,600 and the S came in at $161,900. The GT63 S E Performance is a new model, and therefore we can only speculate on pricing, but a base point of around $190,000 is a solid estimate. A lot of money, but rarely does a car offer such phenomenal performance without sacrificing on luxury.