Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance with Over 800bhp of V8 Plug-in Hybrid Power Revealed

Mercedes-AMG has introduced its drop-top flagship model, called the SL 63 S E Performance. The newest offering also happens to be the most powerful plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in the SL's line-up to date, developing a combined power output of 805bhp. A rival to the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet and the Ferrari 296 GTS, the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance will go on sale in the international market next year. In terms of performance, the electrified SL can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 2.9 seconds, although the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet can do the same sprint in 2.7 seconds. The Ferrari 296 GTS, on the other hand, accelerates from 0 – 100km/h in 2.9 seconds and attain a top speed of more than 330km/h, with its power and torque outputs of 830bhp and 740Nm, respectively. The Mercedes-AMG roadster, on the other hand, is claimed to have a top speed of 317km/h.

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Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance: Engine, Battery

Underneath the skin, the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance gets a familiar powertrain setup. The roadster uses a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 motor, which works in conjunction with a 201bhp rear axle-mounted electric motor. The V8 engine alone can produce 604bhp, while the combined output figures are rated at 805bhp and 1,420Nm. Power is sent to all wheels via a 9-speed automatic gearbox.

The plug-in-hybrid variant is equipped with an AMG-engineered 6.1kWh battery pack, which is said to offer 13 kilometres of electric-only driving range. Thanks to direct cooling, the high-performance battery is always in the optimal temperature window of around 45 degrees. The car can be charged via the 3.7kW AC on-board charger.

Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance: Exterior

Design-wise, the new Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance is almost identical to the standard SL 63; however, it comes with a charging flap on the rear bumper and 'E Performance' badging on the front fenders and boot. Other design highlights include grooved trapezoidal twin tailpipes, carbon-ceramic brakes with bronze callipers (6-piston front and one-piston rear), and aero-optimised 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels.

The car also receives a carbon-fibre front splitter extending downward by 40mm at a speed of 80km/h and an extendable rear spoiler integrated into the boot lid. From 80 km/h, the spoiler adopts five new angular positions for optimising driving stability and reducing air resistance.

Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance: Interior, Features

Inside, the SL 63 S E Performance features an MBUX infotainment system with AMG and hybrid-specific displays and functions. Additionally, the SL also has electrically adjustable AMG sports seats, one- and two-tone Nappa upholstery, and an active rear-axle steering wheel as standard. The AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system and AMG Active Ride Control suspension with semi-active roll stabilization are also available as standard. What's more, the German brand also offers optional AMG performance seats with integrated headrests and the 'Energising' Package Plus, which combines seating functions with lighting moods.

There are 8 driving modes on offer – Electric, Battery Hold, Comfort, Smoothness, Sport, Sport Plus, Race and Individual – along with four different levels of recuperation power with one-pedal driving.

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On top of it, Mercedes’ Manufaktur program allows buyers to personalise the car with distinctive exterior and interior styling options, including upholstery in Nappa leather with diamond quilting.