World Premiere of New Flagship Mercedes-AMG GT
Bennett Oghifo
On the sidelines of the Formula 1™ weekend in Shanghai, Mercedes-AMG unveils the new flagship of the AMG GT Coupe portfolio – the 2025 AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE – expected to arrive at U.S. dealerships in late 2024. The extremely powerful E PERFORMANCE hybrid drive featuring a Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine at the front and an electric motor on the rear axle delivers lightning-fast response and consistent power delivery. Innovative motorsport technologies inspired by those proven in the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team’s hybrid race cars forms the basis of the unique driving experience with exhilarating performance and outstanding driving dynamics.
“From zero to 60 in 2.7 seconds – no AMG series model has ever sprinted that fast before. Given these values, it was clear that the world premiere of the new AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE had to take place on the sidelines of a Formula 1™ race. Our four-liter V8, combined with the performance hybrid system, makes the vehicle the top model in our GT family. The GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE combines enormous performance with a very dynamic driving experience and thus creates pure goosebumps. At the same time, the vehicle offers extensive equipment options and high-quality materials, making it one of the most exclusive performance coupes on the market,” said Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH and Head of Business Units Mercedes-Benz G-Class & Mercedes Maybach.
In the new AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE, the Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine and AMG Electric Drive Unit together produce a combined system output of 805 hp and combined system torque of up to 1,047 lb-ft1. The rapid acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 2.7 seconds and the top speed of 199 mph underscore the powerful performance. Standard AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilization and active rear axle steering ensure a wide spread of driving characteristics – from highly dynamic to comfortable.
E PERFORMANCE: Combustion engine at the front, electric motor at the rear
The electric drive unit (EDU) integrates a 201 hp permanently excited synchronous electric motor with an electrically shifted two-speed transmission and a limited-slip rear differential. The lightweight AMG High Performance Battery is also located at the rear above the rear axle. This compact design results in numerous advantages.
The electric motor acts directly on the rear axle and can therefore convert its power more directly into propulsion for an extra boost when starting off from a standstill, accelerating or overtaking. If wheel slip occurs at the rear axle, the drive power of the electric motor is also transferred to the front wheels as needed for more traction. The mechanical connection of the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive makes this possible via the driveshaft and drive axles of the front wheels. The positioning on the rear axle improves the weight and axle load distribution and forms the basis for dynamic handling.
Inspired by Formula 1™, developed in Affalterbach: the AMG High Performance Battery
Batteries require a defined temperature for optimal power delivery. If the energy storage unit gets too cold or too hot, it temporarily reduces power to protect high performance components. The consistent temperature of the battery therefore has a decisive influence on its performance, service life and stability. Conventional cooling systems that only use air or indirectly cool the entire battery pack with water quickly reach their limits, especially as cooling requirements continue to increase due to more energy-dense cells.
The basis for the performance of the 400-volt AMG High Performance Battery is the innovative direct cooling system. A high-tech coolant based on an electrically non-conductive liquid flows around all 560 cells and cools them individually. Compared to water, the coolant has a heat capacity that is two to three times higher and stores more thermal energy. For direct cooling, AMG developed new 0.04-inch-thin cooling shafts whose width corresponds to the height of the cylindrical cells.
The development of the lithium-ion energy storage system is inspired by technologies proven in the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team’s Formula 1™ hybrid race cars. The AMG High Performance battery offers high power that can be called upon frequently in succession to increase the overall performance of the AMG GT Coupe. Added to this are the fast energy draw and high power density. The high performance battery offers a capacity of 6.1 kWh, enabling a 94 hp continuous output and 201 hp peak output. The battery is designed for fast power delivery and draw rather than longest possible range. Charging takes place via the vehicle’s 3.7 kW on-board AC charger at a charging station, wallbox or household socket.
Operating strategy: electric power always available
The basic operating strategy is derived from the hybrid power pack of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1™ race car. As in the premier class of motorsport, maximum propulsion is always available when the driver accelerates aggressively – for example, when accelerating powerfully out of corners or overtaking. The electric power can always be called upon and frequently reproduced through high recuperation performance and needs-based recharging. The independent battery concept enables the optimal balance between dynamic performance and efficiency. All components are intelligently coordinated. The performance gain can be experienced directly.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs
Eight AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs – “Electric,” “Battery Hold,” “Comfort,” “Slippery,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” “RACE” and “Individual” – are precisely tailored to the new drive technology. These offer a wide range of driving experiences – from efficient to dynamic. The drive programs adjust important parameters, including the response of the drive and transmission, steering characteristics, chassis damping and sound. The programs can be selected via the AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons or the central multimedia display.
The performance hybrid starts silently (“Silent Mode”) in the “Comfort” drive program when the electric motor is switched on. The “Ready” icon in the instrument cluster indicates the vehicle is ready to drive. In addition, a powerful, sonorous start-up sound typical of AMG is emitted in the interior via the vehicle’s speakers as acoustic feedback, announcing the coupe is ready to drive. Slight pressure on the accelerator pedal is all it takes to set the AMG Performance Hybrid in motion.
Recuperation selectable in four stages
Because the high performance battery is always in the optimal temperature window of approximately 113 degrees Fahrenheit thanks to direct cooling, recuperation can also be optimized. Normally, a battery heats up at high recuperation, so energy recovery must be limited. Recuperation starts when the driver takes their foot off the accelerator pedal. This charges the battery and creates braking torque. On steep descents, the system works like an engine brake and feeds energy into the battery.
The driver can select four different levels of recuperation using the right-hand AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel button. With the exception of “Slippery,” this applies to all drive programs. The highest level of recuperation allows for “one-pedal” driving similar to an all-electric vehicle. Depending on the driving situation, over 100 kW can be fed back into the battery.
Active aerodynamics
An active aerodynamic element, which is hidden in the underbody in front of the engine, contributes to the agile handling of the AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE. This carbon profile is an exclusive, patented AMG development. It reacts to the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs and automatically lowers by approximately 1.6 inches at a speed of 50 mph. This creates a Venturi effect, which sucks the car onto the road and reduces front axle lift.
Another active component is the retractable rear spoiler that is seamlessly integrated into the trunk lid. It changes position depending on the driving situation. The AMG aerodynamics team has adapted the control software for the higher performance of the AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE with numerous parameters taken into account, including vehicle speed, longitudinal and lateral acceleration, and steering speed. Depending on the drive program selected, the spoiler assumes five new angular positions above 50 mph to either optimize driving stability or reduce drag.
AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilization
AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilization is also fitted standard. Active hydraulic elements replace conventional mechanical torsion bar anti-roll bars and compensate for rolling movements in fractions of a second. The adaptive shock absorbers also have two hydraulic connections – one on the compression side of the damper and the other on the rebound side. The damper chambers on all four wheels and the lines are connected directly via the control valves of the adaptive dampers.
The hydraulic interconnection of all four suspension struts and the pressure regulation of the pump and switching valves allow a very wide roll spring rate while at the same time reduce rolling movements. Figuratively, every torsion bar from zero to rigid can be realized automatically. This increases comfort in everyday driving because even one-sided road imperfections are compensated for individually. During dynamic cornering, the hydraulics also actively reduce loss of camber. Thanks to the resulting high camber rigidity, the coupe turns in very precisely.
When driving straight ahead, the system is opened completely depending on the drive program and driving situation. The system compensates for individual obstacles that would otherwise lead to rolling movements. Drivers and passengers experience a significantly more comfortable driving experience. The reduced body roll when cornering contributes equally to comfort and driving dynamics. The driving characteristics in the individual drive programs can be spread more between comfort and sport.
Active rear axle steering combines agility and stability
The AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE is also equipped with active rear-axle steering as standard. Depending on vehicle speed, the rear wheels steer either in the opposite direction (up to 60 mph) or the same direction (above 60 mph) as the front wheels. The system therefore enables both agile and stable handling. Other advantages include easier vehicle control at the limit and less steering effort because the front wheel steering ratio is more direct.
AMG carbon ceramic high performance composite brake system
An AMG carbon ceramic high performance composite brake system with bronze 6-piston fixed calipers at the front and 1-piston floating calipers at the rear is equipped standard. Carbon ceramic brake discs on the front axle measure 16.5 x 1.6 inches and 15 x 1.3 inches on the rear axle. The system impresses with short braking distances as well as high stability and fade-resistance – even under extreme load. The lightweight design saves additional weight and reduces unsprung mass.
Unique E PERFORMANCE exterior elements
The exterior of the AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE features visual elements exclusive to the performance hybrid. At the rear of the coupe, this includes an integrated charging port door for the hybrid system, “GT 63 S” model badge highlighted in red and grooved twin trapezoidal tailpipe trims. “E PERFORMANCE” badging on each front fender indicates the exclusive hybrid drive.
Aerodynamically optimized 20-inch AMG 10-spoke alloy wheels in Tantalum Grey with a high-sheen finish are fitted standard (front: 10.5 J x 20 with 295/35 R 20 tires; rear: 11.0 J x 20 with 305/35 R 20 tires). Optional 20- and 21-inch wheels in a variety of designs and finishes are also available.
Driver-focused interior with extensive personalization options
The interior is designed for both dynamic driving and maximum comfort. The cockpit design, right down to the central display in portrait format, focuses on the driver and captivates with a harmonious overall impression. The practical dimensional concept with 2+2 seating offers generous interior space.
One of many highlights of the interior is the standard power adjustable AMG sports seats. These offer exceptional comfort and a high level of lateral support. Optional AMG performance seats with integrated headrests and ventilation openings in the seat backrests to support highly dynamic driving are also available. Three massage programs offer enhanced comfort for long distance journeys. This is further elevated with the optional ENERGIZING Comfort Package Plus, which combines seat functions and lighting moods to create relaxing comfort programs.
The large selection of upholstery choices reflects the range of options – from comfortable to performance-oriented. Single- and two-tone Nappa leather options are included, as well as elegant MANUFAKTUR Nappa leather upholstery with diamond quilting, or the sporty combination of Nappa leather and microfiber with contrast stitching in yellow or red.
MANUFAKTUR Signature program
For the U.S. market, the extended MANUFAKTUR Signature program is introduced for the 2025 AMG GT Coupe with new exclusive paint finishes and exquisite Nappa Leather upholstery with diamond quilting. This includes striking MANUFAKTUR Desert Sand and MANUFAKTUR Cirrus Silver Magno exterior paints, and MANUFAKTUR Classic Red/Black and MANUFAKTUR Savannah Beige/Black Nappa leather.
The MANUFAKTUR Nappa leather also extends to the armrests and center panels in the doors, center console including the center armrests and the lower part of the dashboard. Another highlight is the hand-stitched AMG Performance MANUFAKTUR steering wheel in Nappa leather, color coordinated with the seat upholstery.
Elegant interior details continue with deep-pile floor mats featuring an embroidered AMG logo and Nappa leather piping in the same color as the MANUFAKTUR interior upholstery. Illuminated AMG door sill panels showcase an exclusive MANUFAKTUR pattern, while the center console is adorned with “MANUFAKTUR” script in high-gloss chrome.
