Mercedes-Benz S-Class AMG PHEV

Model Overview

The Mercedes-AMG S 63 L E PERFORMANCE is Mercedes-AMG's flagship plug-in hybrid high-performance luxury saloon based on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, serving as the AMG stable's first production executive saloon equipped with Formula 1-derived E PERFORMANCE hybrid technology. The car was officially launched in China during the Mercedes-AMG Brand Night in April 2024. As of June 2026, the 2024 and 2025 AMG S 63 L E PERFORMANCE are on sale locally, offered in standard and Edition 1 variants with recommended retail prices ranging from RM2,638,000 to RM2,853,000. Additionally, the 2025 and 2026 models are priced at RM2,674,800. As the pinnacle performance offering in the S-Class line-up, it carries the market mission of redefining the benchmark for 'high-performance luxury executive saloons' through plug-in hybrid technology.

Design Language

In terms of exterior styling, the AMG S 63 L E PERFORMANCE retains the stately profile of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class while incorporating signature AMG performance cues. Up front, it features AMG's iconic vertical-slat radiator grille flanked by sharp triangular headlamp clusters and an all-new three-section front bumper, striking a fine balance between executive presence and aggressive athleticism. The side profile maintains the understated silhouette of the standard S-Class, upgraded with a high-performance braking system and newly styled 21-inch alloy wheels (255/40 R21 front, 285/35 R21 rear). In terms of dimensions, it measures 5,336 mm in length, 1,921 mm in width, and 1,516 mm in height, with a 3,216 mm wheelbase. At the rear, distinct triangular tail lamps are complemented by an AMG-style smoked lower bumper diffuser and quad sports exhaust tailpipes. The Edition 1 adds MANUFAKTUR alpine grey paint, 'EDITION 1' badging, red/black AMG carbon-fibre trim, and the AMG Night Package. Inside, the cabin features an AMG three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel (carbon fibre/leather), a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12.8-inch central infotainment touchscreen, configured in an opulent four-seater layout with leather-upholstered seats.

Powertrain and Performance

The powertrain stands as the standout technical highlight of the AMG S 63 L E PERFORMANCE. Propelling the car is a plug-in hybrid setup comprising an AMG handcrafted 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 engine and a rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous electric motor. The 4.0T V8 engine produces a maximum output of 450 kW and 900 Nm of torque, while the rear electric motor generates 140–150 kW and 320 Nm of torque. Total system output reaches an immense 590 kW (approx. 802 hp) and 1,430 Nm of torque, mated to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed automatic transmission. The official 0-100 km/h sprint is completed in just 3.2–3.3 seconds, with top speed reaching 290 km/h when optioned with the AMG Driver's Package. Energy is stored in a 13.14 kWh ternary lithium-ion battery pack, delivering a WLTC pure electric range of around 31–33 km. An AC slow charge from 25% to 100% takes approximately 3.25 hours.

Chassis and Handling

Underneath, the AMG S 63 L E PERFORMANCE rides on front and rear multi-link independent suspension, paired with AMG adaptive air suspension as standard. The system automatically adjusts damping stiffness and ride height based on the selected drive mode, achieving a fine balance between ride comfort and dynamic handling. Power is deployed via the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel-drive system, which supports real-time dynamic torque distribution between the front and rear axles. The saloon is also equipped with active roll stabilisation and active rear-axle steering, noticeably improving cornering stability and low-speed urban manoeuvrability for such a large vehicle. Stopping power comes from an AMG high-performance composite braking system integrated with high-efficiency regenerative braking. The vehicle's kerb weight is rated at approximately 2,595 kg.

Cabin and Features

Inside, the AMG S 63 L E PERFORMANCE features an exclusive four-seater layout. The cockpit is dominated by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch central touchscreen running the MBUX infotainment system, supporting 5G connectivity, AR navigation, and fingerprint authentication. Rear passengers benefit from dedicated rear-seat entertainment screens. Wrapped in premium leather, both front and second-row seats come equipped with power adjustment, heating, ventilation, memory, and massage functions. Audio is delivered via a 12-channel Burmester surround sound system. Other creature comforts include tri-zone automatic climate control, an active fragrancing system, and an Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (AR-HUD). Flush door handles, acoustic laminated glass for the front and rear windows, and soft-close doors further elevate overall refinement.

Safety and Intelligent Driving

On the safety front, the AMG S 63 L E PERFORMANCE is outfitted with a comprehensive suite of airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). In terms of advanced driver assistance, the car comes standard with a Level 2 ADAS suite comprising full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, active brake assist, and blind spot assist. The 2026 S-Class range features the Level 3 automated driving system (Drive Pilot) as standard, enabling conditionally automated driving on specific highway sections. The sensing hardware includes multiple cameras, millimetre-wave radars, and ultrasonic sensors. A selection of AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes is available, encompassing Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual modes. Additionally, the vehicle supports remote vehicle manoeuvring functions.

Market Performance and Review

Since its debut, the AMG S 63 L E PERFORMANCE has carved out a unique niche in the multi-million-ringgit luxury PHEV segment courtesy of its potent 'V8 PHEV' powertrain. With total output surpassing 800 hp and a 0-100 km/h sprint time of just 3.2 seconds, its performance clearly moves beyond the boundaries of traditional executive saloons. Industry analyses highlight that the plug-in hybrid setup operates predominantly on electric drive at lower speeds for a serene, refined ride, while unleashing instant, effortless power at medium-to-high speeds—harmonising fierce performance with supreme composure. A mid-lifecycle facelift is slated for official release in mid-2026, where total output is expected to see further gains. Within its segment, key rivals to the AMG S 63 L E PERFORMANCE include ultra-luxury PHEV saloons such as the Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid. Amid the electrification transition, the AMG S 63 L E PERFORMANCE's 'V8 engine + plug-in hybrid' blueprint offers high-net-worth buyers a distinctive flagship proposition that unites driving thrill with modern electrified capability.