The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance is the quickest-accelerating Mercedes-AMG, accelerating from zero to 100km/h faster than even the ultra-exclusive $2.75 million AMG One hypercar. Unveiled at the recent 2024 Formula One Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai, the all-wheel-drive GT63 S E Performance two-door has a claimed 0-100km/h time of 2.8 seconds.
The GT63 S E Performance accelerates to 100km/h in 0.1 seconds less than both the AMG One hypercar and its four-door counterpart, and a notable 0.4 seconds faster than the GT 63 S 4Matic+ two-door. According to a Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesperson, it’s currently “too early to confirm plans” for the GT63 S E Performance coupe, while the standard GT coupe range, anticipated to feature the non-hybrid V8 GT63, is slated for release in the second half of this year.
The plug-in hybrid coupe serves as the two-door counterpart to the $399,900 plus-on-road costs four-door GT63 S E Performance launched in 2023. Its swift acceleration is powered by a 450kW/850Nm ‘M177’ 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine and a 150kW/320Nm rear-axle mounted electric motor, combining for 600kW/1420Nm. While this setup delivers 20kW less power than its four-door sibling, it boasts 20Nm more torque, compared to the standard AMG GT63 coupe’s 430kW/830Nm.
Mercedes-AMG hasn’t disclosed the weight of the coupe, but considering the non-hybrid version tips the scales at 1970kg, the plug-in hybrid could likely exceed 2.1 or 2.2 tonnes, despite having a similar size to a Hyundai Sonata. The 782kW AMG One hypercar remains the sole two-door Mercedes boasting more power and the highest speed – claiming 352km/h, surpassing the GT63 S E Performance’s 320km/h. Unveiled at the September 2023 Munich motor show, the GT63 S E Performance marks the latest in ultra-high performance, sporting the iconic ‘S’ badged AMG, and stands as the pioneer hybrid variant of the two-door sports car.
Sharing the powertrain with its four-door counterpart, the coupe incorporates a 6.1kWh lithium-ion battery, rechargeable via a 3.7kW on-board charger, offering a limited electric-only driving range of 13km. Mercedes claims a fuel consumption of 8.2L/100km when operating in hybrid mode, slightly surpassing the four-door’s 7.7L/100km combined figure.
In addition to its all-wheel drive and rear mechanical limited-slip differential (LSD), the E Performance model provides eight driving modes and four levels of energy recuperation, enabling up to 100kW to be channelled back into the battery. These features are easily accessible via steering-wheel-mounted switches. Furthermore, the vehicle boasts rear-wheel steering and adaptive suspension with ‘active roll stabilisation’ aimed at enhancing handling dynamics.
Serving as the flagship GT car until the arrival of a new Black Series or GT R, the GT63 S E Performance two-door stands out with its distinctive 20-inch alloy wheels, refined aerodynamics package, and carbon-ceramic brakes as standard. Notable alterations include red badging featuring ‘E Performance’ lettering, with customization options available through the Mercedes-Benz ‘Manufaktur’ program, along with larger 21-inch wheels. The rear of the two-door model features an integrated charging port situated within the bumper.
For the E Performance variant, the rear spoiler adjusts to one of five positions when the vehicle reaches speeds of 80km/h or higher, retracting automatically at lower speeds. Additionally, an innovative patented aerodynamic flap situated beneath the engine – unseen when the car is stationary – lowers by 40mm at speeds surpassing 80km/h, generating a ‘Venturi effect’ to enhance downforce and bolster road grip, as confirmed by AMG.
Inside the cabin, occupants can indulge in the luxury of front seats trimmed in Nappa leather featuring a massage function, while the option for one-piece AMG Performance bucket seats adds to the bespoke experience. Notably, the GT3 racing version of the Mercedes-AMG GT achieved a remarkable feat at Mount Panorama, Bathurst in February 2024, where French driver Jules Gounon achieved a lap time faster than a V8 Supercar, setting a new class record.
