Mercedes-AMG Unveils The Most Powerful SL Ever
It becomes the fifth hybrid road-legal model to carry the ‘E Performance’ tag.
You can’t say that you’re surprised! This was definitely on the cards. Why? Well, the brand said so when it first unveiled the new-gen SL. Meet the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance. In other words, it is the most powerful SL of all time. That also means it takes the crown from the SL 63 to take the top-tier place in the current-gen model range. And before you start counting, it becomes the fifth hybrid road-legal car to carry the ‘E Performance’ tag.
The Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance packs a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that outputs 603hp/850Nm independently, while a 9-speed AMG-spec automatic handles transmission duties. On the rear axle is an electric drive unit comprising a 201hp/350Nm (peak) electric motor, a two-speed transmission and a mechanical limited-slip differential. The total system power output is 805hp, whereas the torque figure can reach 1,420Nm.
At maximum attack, the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance can hit 100kmph from a standstill in 2.9 seconds. Flat out, it’ll clock 317kmph. The electric motor draws its juices from a 6.1kWh battery, which can be replenished via the 3.7kW on-board AC charger. Alternatively, the driver can use the four-stage energy recuperation system to charge the depleted battery. And because the electric drive unit can work independently, the car can travel up to 13km without emitting any local emissions.
Yes, there are multiple drive modes under AMG Dynamic Select. Eight, to be precise. Their names – Electric, Battery Hold, Comfort, Smoothness, Sport, Sport+, Race and Individual – paint the spectrum from efficiency to sporty. The standard kit also includes the AMG Active Ride Control suspension with semi-active roll stabilisation, rear-axle steering, high-performance composite braking system and active aerodynamics.
In terms of look and feel, the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance features an integrated plug-in loading flap at the rear, model name highlighted in red, grooved trapezoidal dual tailpipe finishes, an ‘E Performance’ badge on the fender, 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels and hybrid-specific displays on the MBUX multimedia system. Of course, there’s a list of optional extras, most under the Manufaktur category. That’s where buyers would find the options for forged wheels and Nappa leather upholstery with diamond quilting, among others.
So, there you have it. The Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance (there’s also 4MATIC+ in there, somewhere!) is a slow-slung speed machine that utilises technology from Formula One and makes nearly everything more exciting. The question is – would you buy one? Or would you take an SL 63 to Manhart or Brabus for a special makeover instead?
Recommend0 recommendationsPublished in News
