The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe is gorgeous. That's a fact. We fell in love with it in concept form at the Frankfurt Motor Show last fall, and swooned over its production-ready body at the Geneva Motor Showearlier this month. For the New York Auto Show in April, Mercedes will once again show off its CL-no-more flagship two-door, but this time, with a monstrous mill under the hood. Say hello to the 2015 S63 AMG 4Matic Coupe.
Let's get right to the good stuff: the hand-built, twin-turbocharged, 5.5-liter V8 engine nestled behind that upright, classy-looking nose. This powerful AMG engine is tuned to produce 577 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque here in the coupe – improvements of 41 hp and 74 lb-ft versus the outgoing CL63 – and that's enough grunt to send the 4,400-pound (estimated) two-door to 60 miles per hour in just 3.9 seconds. Managing all that force is Mercedes' seven-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission, with Sport, Manual and Controlled Efficiency modes, and the power runs to the ground via an AMG-tuned 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, with a standard 33/67-percent fore/aft torque split. Stop/start is also standard.
Mercedes has retened the Airmatic air suspension for the more performance-oriented demeanor of the S63 Coupe, and large, optional, carbon ceramic brakes can be fitted at all four corners, nestled behind 20-inch wheels wrapped. Inside the coupe, the S-Class' interior carries over with redesigned seats and an AMG Sport steering wheel. The whole cabin looks seriously comfortable and inviting – we've had similar impressions of the standard S-Class cockpit.
When it launches this fall, Mercedes will offer an "Edition 1" version of the S63 AMG Coupe, complete with things like the Magno Alanite Grey matte finish paint, LED performance headlamps (with Swarovski crystals – yes, really), Designo Nappa leather, and the carbon ceramic brakes. We'll show you more of the S63 AMG Coupe when it makes its official debut in New York next month. For now, scroll down for the official details in Merc's press blast.
The new Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe
Breathtaking and irresistible
Affalterbach. The new S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe is the latest dream car to augment the Mercedes-AMG model range. Exciting lines underpin this two- door model's design. Power and sensual purity combine to give the vehicle irresistible presence and breathtaking performance. Equally impressive is the combination of outstanding driving dynamics, advanced lightweight construction and groundbreaking efficiency. The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine is a paragon of poise and assurance. Boasting an output of 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, the S63 AMG Coupe delivers exceptional performance with remarkably low fuel consumption. In addition, perfor- mance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive (33/67% split) will come standard in the U.S. market for optimum traction in any driving situation.
Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "The new S63 AMG Coupe is another exciting AMG dream car in the luxury segment. Now the S-Class Coupe also comes with performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive - as we rigorously pursue our all-wheel-drive initiative. Mercedes-AMG is putting the pedal to the metal again in the new year. Our model initiative is set to continue at blistering pace in 2014."
Up to 140 pounds lighter thanks to AMG Lightweight Performance
The S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe is the latest model to benefit from the systematic implementation of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy. Lightweight construction has reduced the vehicle weight by up to 140 pounds – even though the car has a higher output and more extensive standard equipment than the preceding model. This weight savings was achieved largely thanks to the use of a lightweight lithium-ion battery, optional AMG forged light-alloy wheels and a weight-optimized AMG high-performance composite braking system. Furthermore, the entire outer skin and the front end of the body are made of aluminium. The reduced weight improves driving dynamics and cuts fuel consumption, while the low power-to-weight ratio results in impressive performance: the S63 AMG Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 3.9 seconds and goes on to reach a top speed of 186 mph (electronically limited).
In terms of maximum output, torque and fuel consumption, the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine remains one of the most efficient series-produced V8 engines of all. With an output of 577 hp and 664 ft-lb of torque, the AMG eight- cylinder unit meets even the most demanding of requirements. Compared to the previous CL63 AMG model, engine output has been increased by 41 hp and torque by 74 lb-ft. Yet the S63 AMG Coupe still consumes less fuel.

Individuality: AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission combines perfectly with the V8 biturbo engine. Maximum agility and exciting dynamics are the two key strengths of this transmission, which is used exclusively at AMG. Drivers can configure their own personal set-up, depending on their driving style. There are three modes to choose from: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual). The ECO start/stop function is fitted as standard.
AMG sport exhaust system with automatic exhaust flaps
Emotional and sporty performance or restrained and relaxing cruising: the S63 AMG Coupe even has a choice of bespoke sounds. The AMG sport exhaust sys- tem meets individual driver requirements as it has automatic logic-controlled exhaust flaps in both rear silencers. When the transmission is in "C" (Con- trolled Efficiency) mode, the flaps remain closed in most situations, in which case the eight-cylinder biturbo engine's sound is more understated. In "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual) modes, the exhaust flaps open earlier and more spontaneously, especially if the driver prefers a dynamic driving style. The result is an even fuller, hallmark AMG emotive engine sound.
"One man, one engine": a tradition of hand-built excellence
Like all AMG V8 and V12 engines, the eight-cylinder biturbo engine for the S63 AMG Coupe is assembled by hand at the AMG engine shop in Affalterbach. Highly qualified engine fitters assemble the engines in Affalterbach according to the strictest quality standards based on the "one man, one engine" philoso- phy. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative precision and production quality, the AMG engine plate bearing the engine technician's signature also attests to the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz high-performance brand.
Performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive
For the first time, the S63 AMG Coupe comes standard in the U.S. market with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. With permanent all-wheel drive, 33 percent of the engine torque is sent to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle. The rear-biased power distribution provides the signa- ture AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment as well as boosting acceleration from a standing start. The all-wheel drive also enhances driving safety on wet or wintry road surfaces when equipped with winter tires**. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-disc clutch with a locking effect of 37 lb-ft, which maximizes the frictional connection potential of all four wheels.
AIRMATIC air suspension
The S63 AMG Coupe 4MATIC features the full air-suspension system AIRMATIC with the adaptive damping system ADS PLUS. Specific front axle kinematics – including higher camber, a larger anti-roll bar and a stiffer subframe carrier on the rear axle – have been developed exclusively for the S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe. These measures enhance the vehicle's agility for performance driving.
Systematic lightweight construction: Available AMG forged wheels
The S63 AMG Coupe is available with optional AMG forged light-alloy wheels. This design reduces weight while at the same time increasing strength. The lower unsprung masses result in advantages in terms of handling and spring/damper element response.
Optional wheels include 10-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey with a polished finish – 8.5 x 20 at the front and 9.5 x 20 at the rear, with 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 tires respectively. The forged wheels feature a high-quality, screwable and fully integrated wheel bolt cover made of forged aluminium. Its shape is reminiscent of a center lock as seen in motorsport. The AMG logo is integrated into one of the ten spokes. These forged wheels are also available painted in matte black with a high-sheen rim flange.
AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system as an option for the first time
Short stopping distances and rapid deceleration are a given for the S63 AMG Coupe, which is equipped with a weight-optimized, fade-resistant AMG high- performance composite brake system. An AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available as an option. This design, which is more than 20 percent lighter, ensures lower unsprung masses and enhanced braking performance.
Design: AMG combines sensual purity with breaktaking performance
The S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe also boasts exciting looks to emphasize its sporty performance: it exudes power and hallmark Mercedes-Benz sensual purity. The design is a stage for the exciting technology at the heart of the new dream car. Numerous aerodynamic elements underline the outstanding driving dynamics: the front end is dominated by the three-dimensional AMG "twin-blade" radiator grille in silver shadow (a matte silver finish). Whether in motion or stationary, distinctive AMG lettering between the twin-blade lamellas leaves no doubt: this is a high-performance model from Affalterbach. The A-wing is located below the radiator grille. This three-dimensional air-ducting element is painted in the body color, spans the entire width of the front apron and displays the stylized "A" that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles. Large, black flics surround the outer cooling air intakes. Down below, the front splitter in silver shadow optimizes the flow of air to the cooling modules. This design feature, which is a familiar sight in motorsport, also reduces front-axle lift and enhances the vehicle's aerodynamic balance.
All of the cooling air grilles exude high quality with their high-gloss-black paint finish. Keeping the A-wing and front splitter separate makes the car appear closer to the road. A similar effect is created by the AMG side sill panels with their high-quality, three-dimensional inserts in silver shadow. Together with the lower feature line, these inserts make the S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe exude energy even when it is at a standstill. Further eye-catching features of the side design include the large AMG designed wheels. "V8 BITURBO" lettering in a new, contemporary typography on the front wings is another hallmark AMG design touch.
At the rear, the diffuser insert in high-gloss black also catches the eye right away. The lower trim element in silver shadow is reminiscent of the A-wing at the front and provides an effective contrast. The two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sport exhaust system with sport flaps are perfectly integrated into the diffuser insert. Stylized, vertical air outlets in the rear apron assume the role of a defined spoiler lip and optimize aerodynamics. The "S 63 AMG" model designation in a new, contemporary typography below the tail lamps adds the perfect finishing touch to the rear-end design.
Interior: Captivating luxury, quality and exclusivity
Opening the door reveals the luxurious interior of the S63 AMG Coupe: the instrument panel almost seamlessly transitions into the doors in a wrap- around design. High-quality materials and fine workmanship are combined with a sporty and exclusive design idiom. The newly developed AMG sport seats with power adjustment, memory function and seat heating/ventilation offer the driver and front passenger optimum lateral support. Fine AMG design Nappa leather with piping together with AMG badges on all four seat backrests and an embossed AMG emblem on the armrest of the front center console create an exquisite atmosphere.
The new three-spoke AMG sport steering wheel with its distinctively contoured rim and perforated leather in the grip area allows perfect vehicle control. There is an AMG logo in the lower metal insert, and new
aluminium shift paddles shorten the reaction time when changing gears to enhance performance. Another feature displaying the hallmark AMG look is the high-resolution TFT color AMG instrument cluster with two animated round dials. In addition to the specific lettering and the needles in red/silver, further distinctive design features include the AMG start-up display, the AMG logo in the speedometer 200 mph scale (left) and the "V8 BITURBO" lettering in the rev counter (right).
The new, innovative touchpad, included as standard equipment, makes it sig- nificantly easier to operate the radio, telephone and navigation system. The safety and assistance systems are the same as those for the S550 4MATIC Coupe.
Even more exclusivity: the S63 AMG Coupe "Edition 1"
One particularly exclusive model in the range is the S63 AMG Coupe "Edition 1. The expressive arrangement of exclusive exterior and interior details arouses pure fascination. The irresistible look of the exterior is created from designo Magno Alanite Grey matte finish paint and Swarovski crystals in the LED high- performance headlamps. The exquisite ambience of the interior includes AMG sport seats upholstered in designo Exclusive Nappa Leather in bengal red/black with contrasting topstitching and piping. In keeping with this color scheme, the upper section of the dashboard, the front and rear center armrests, and the door linings are trimmed in nappa leather with contrasting topstitching, while the headliner is in finished in DINAMICA. The Edition 1 features a high level of equipment including the AMG Ceramic Braking System.
World premiere and market launch in 2014
The S63 AMG Coupe will celebrate its world premiere at the New York Interna- tional Auto Show in April 2014. The United States market launch of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Coupe 4MATIC will be in Fall 2014.
Promising an even more exhilarating driving experience than the just-launched S63 AMG, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG gets its formal world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Building off the already advanced engineering and technology found in the current baddest actor in the new S-Class Sedan family, the third-generation S65 AMG brings an even more potent 12-cylinder engine to the party as well as its own dynamic styling cues and other new driver-assist features.
To be offered only on the long-wheelbase version of the new S-Class Sedan, the 2015 S65 packs an AMG 6.0-liter Biturbo V12 under its hood that cranks out a heady 621 horsepower between 4,800-5,400 rpm and develops a tarmac-torturing 738 lb-ft of peak torque from 2,300 to 4,300 revs -- the same as it does in the current SL65 AMG. However, where the Gen II S65 used a 5-speed AMG SpeedShift automatic to change gears, the 2015 S65 AMG is fitted with the latest and quickest AMG SpeedShift Plus 7G-tronic that's also found in the SL63 and S63 AMG models. With three driver-selectable programs -- Controlled Efficiency/Sport/Manual - a wider ratio spread, reduced internal friction, and Eco start/stop mode, this new transmission will help M-B's ultra sedan earn better EPA stats while allowing it to effortlessly sprint from 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds and reach an electronically limited top end of 155 mph.
Also: More first looks from the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show
Sharing much of its AMG-designed sport suspension with the S63 AMG, M-B's newest dream sedan comes with the most sophisticated version to date of the automaker's Airmatic/ADS Plus Adaptive Damping system. Dubbed Magic Body Control, it incorporates a Road Surface Scan feature that uses a stereo multipurpose camera to read upcoming undulations and then automatically compensates to reduce or eliminate body-pitch motions. The S65 AMG also comes with ESP Dynamic Cornering Assist that vectors torque to improve tracking through the twisties as well as electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive/variable-ratio steering that enhances high speed control and agility. AMG-spec carbon brakes provide standard stopping power, but the S65 AMG also offers an AMG carbon-ceramic upgrade that's 20-percent lighter as well as longer-lasting and even more resistant to heat-related fade. Like the S63 AMG, the S65 AMG is fitted with an advanced lithium-ion battery that replaces both the conventional starter battery and the backup unit, trimming the vehicle weight by a substantial 44 pounds.
As with any vehicle emerging from the company's go-faster headquarters in Affalterbach, the 2015 S65 AMG gets a distinctive visual remake to complement its awesome performance. The S65 AMG's recast front fascia features a unique grille treatment that sports three chrome split-transverse elements, oversize air intakes filled with bright mesh inserts, chrome deflector "flics" and a chrome-embellished but highly functional lower splitter. Bright accenting also is found on the custom side sills and on the car's gloss-black rear diffuser which houses dual-paired chrome exhaust tips. The S65 is fitted with staggered-size tires - 255/40 front and 285/35 rear on 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels - but several other choices are on offer, including three different ultra-light AMG forged rims.
That same AMG character is found throughout the cabin of the new S65, enriching the already elegant S-Class ambiance and megaload of primo standards with unique instrument cluster graphics, a 2-spoke AMG sport steering wheel with aluminum shifter paddles, four individual AMG sport seats with more supportive side bolsters and loads of high-quality diamond-pattern Nappa leather set off with an exclusive-design IWC analog clock.
Also: Top 10 Sedans Under $25,000
In addition to its 24-speaker Burmeister 3D Surround Sound premium audio system, the S65 AMG also introduces two new design elements. The first is a head-up display that projects a height-adjustable 8x3-inch virtual color image about 6.5 feet ahead of the driver's view, providing an assortment of distraction-free digital readouts. The S65 AMG also is the first Mercedes to get a new more user-friendly touchpad. Integrated into the handrest of the central control unit, it functions much like the surface on a smartphone or tablet and can recognize a variety of touch/swipe/zoom gestures as well as handwritten alphanumeric inputs. Fully integrated with the COMAND telematics and Voice Control systems, it even includes a special hand-resting recognition sensor that helps prevent inadvertent messaging errors.
For those seeking additional personalization, the S65 AMG will be available with a host of optional goodies that range from designo exterior/interior packages and AMG carbon fiber trim bits to an Executive Rear Seat Package Plus and M-B's trick Splitview technology that lets the driver and passenger see two completely different images on same the central dash screen. The 2015 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG is set to arrive here sometime in the second quarter of next year. Pricing will be released closer to its on-sale date.
