The upcoming Mercedes-AMG S63e has been spied again, this time winter testing and with minimal camouflage. Previously seen wearing a full-body disguise, the latest shots show the most significant changes will be to the bumpers. The Panamericana grille is on full display, with only the large, centrally-mounted Mercedes-Benz badge covered up. Although camouflaged, it’s evident that the front bumper is more aggressive than the standard S-Class, with what looks to be functional cooling grilles on either side.
The rear badge is covered up, but moving
down to the rear bumper, you’ll notice more sports-derived features
incorporated. This prototype features the same quad-pipes as the earlier mules
we’ve spotted. But what’s intriguing is what has placed between them: the
visible outline of a center diffusor — an element that was carefully blanked
off in previous images.The S63e sports oversized brake discs and calipers, as
seen through the mismatched rims. Also apparent are the dual filler flaps, one
apparently for recharging — the S63e is expected to support DC fast charging in
addition to the standard AC port.
The AMG S63e comes at an interesting time
of transition for Mercedes-Benz. The addition of a plug-in hybrid to the
range-topping performance S-Class is a relatively new concept for the AMG arm.
The previous-gen S63 sported a Biturbo V8, putting out 608 hp. The S63e is
expected to retain the use of a V8 but will add an electric motor for more
power and improved emissions. Figures are unconfirmed as yet but expect the
output to be anywhere between 600-700 hp, along with all-wheel drive and a
sub-4-second 0-96 km/h time.
There are also rumors that an even more
mental S-Class could be in the works, with the S73e name bandied around. With
the S63e seemingly entering the final stages of its winter testing, we could be
in for a reveal towards the end of 2021.