Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance: 831bhp 2025 Review

The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance stands as a pinnacle of engineering, fusing a potent twin-turbo V8 with electric augmentation to deliver unmatched thrust in a four-door package. This plug-in hybrid sedan boasts 831 horsepower and 900Nm of torque, propelling it from 0-62mph in just 2.9 seconds while offering surprising refinement for everyday drives.

Powertrain Innovation at Its Core

At the heart lies a handcrafted 4.0-liter biturbo V8 engine, a hallmark of AMG’s expertise, producing 630bhp on its own. Paired with a rear-mounted electric motor delivering up to 201bhp, the system achieves seamless power integration through a sophisticated setup. The V8 drives the front wheels via a nine-speed wet-clutch automatic transmission, while the electric unit handles the rear axle independently with its own two-speed gearbox and electronic limited-slip differential. This transaxle configuration optimizes weight distribution to near 50:50, enhancing balance despite the car’s 2.4-tonne heft.

A compact 6.1kWh battery, positioned above the rear axle with direct liquid cooling, enables up to 19 miles of electric-only range. In Race mode, the combined output peaks at over 600kW (831bhp), with torque figures that can surge beyond 1400Nm under full throttle. Launch control employs a true clutch drop, gripping all four tires for explosive starts, hitting 60mph in as little as 2.4 seconds in testing.

Dynamic Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the GT 63 S E Performance unleashes stomach-lurching acceleration that rivals hypercars. The electric motor’s instant torque fills any gaps in low-end delivery, making overtakes effortless—even in top gear, 30-50mph passes take just 1.9 seconds. Yet, this power is managed with poise thanks to advanced electronics.

Adaptive air suspension adjusts across modes: Comfort softens for urban lumpiness, where 21-inch wheels and wide tires introduce some road roar and weighty lumbering over bumps. Switch to Sport+ or Race, and it firms up, with active anti-roll bars minimizing body lean. Rear-axle steering, up to 1.3 degrees, shrinks the turning circle and sharpens low-speed agility, while aiding stability at higher speeds. The electronic stability control precisely meters power on corner exits, preventing wheelspin despite the mass.

Ceramic brakes with six-piston front calipers provide fade-free stopping power, confidently hauling the sedan from triple-digit speeds. The nine-speed gearbox shifts crisply in manual mode, rewarding precise inputs on track. Steering is heavily weighted and communicative, though it demands focus—the margin for error in tight corners is razor-thin.

Interior Luxury Meets Track Focus

The cabin exudes supercar opulence with premium leather, carbon fiber accents, and a hyperscreen dashboard spanning the width. The AMG Performance steering wheel bristles with touch-sensitive controls for drive modes, suspension, and more. Rear space accommodates adults adequately for a performance sedan, though the sloping roofline pinches headroom.

Infotainment via MBUX is intuitive, with voice commands and augmented reality navigation. Burmester audio and massaging seats elevate long hauls, but the tech-heavy interface can overwhelm. Build quality is impeccable, justifying the premium price tag.

• Key Interior Highlights:
• Hyperscreen with triple displays
• Active ambient lighting
• Carbon-ceramic brake pedal feel
• Quad-zone climate control
• Optional Performance seats with ventilation

Everyday Practicality and Efficiency

Despite its ferocity, the GT 63 S E Performance navigates daily duties competently. In Comfort mode, it glides over imperfections, and electric drive suits short commutes silently. Plug-in capability yields impressive 35.8mpg figures when charged, undercutting pure-petrol rivals. However, the 2.4-tonne weight makes it feel ponderous in tight parking, and tire noise intrudes at motorway speeds.

Four doors and a liftback boot offer family versatility, with 456 liters of cargo space expandable via folding seats. It’s a ‘daily supercar’ that balances track weapon and executive express.

Rivals and Market Positioning

This AMG faces stiff competition from the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid (same 0-62mph but nimbler) and BMW M5 CS (less power but sharper dynamics). The Lucid Air Sapphire edges in straight-line speed, but lacks the GT’s charisma. At £178,705, it demands deep pockets, yet delivers exclusivity.

Performance on Track and Road

On circuits like Sydney Motorsport Park, the hybrid setup shines: the rear electric motor adds ‘violence’ to corner exits, while four-wheel drive and drift mode allow playful slides. It ties the AMG One for quickest 0-100km/h in Mercedes’ lineup. Road tests confirm its versatility, though the sheer power can overwhelm public highways.

Long-term ownership considers high running costs—expect premium fuel, tire wear from 285/35R21 fronts, and £2,000+ services. Warranty covers the hybrid system robustly.

Technology and Safety Suite

Advanced driver aids include adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and 360-degree cameras. The MBUX system predicts modes based on navigation. Rear-axle steering and torque vectoring elevate handling beyond brute force.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Explosive acceleration, hybrid efficiency, luxurious interior, track-ready chassis
• Cons: Heavy weight affects agility, road noise, sky-high price

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance plug-in hybrid?

Yes, it features a 6.1kWh battery for electric-only driving and enhanced efficiency.

How fast is 0-62mph?

Officially 2.9 seconds, with real-world tests as low as 2.4 seconds.

What’s the top speed?

Electronically limited to 196mph.

Can it drift?

Race mode with drift function enables controlled slides via rear-biased torque.

Is it practical for families?

Four doors and a usable boot make it viable, though best for two adults plus children.