The Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG, the powerful top-of-the-line S-Class models, get a series of subtle yet extremely effective fine-tuning measures. The updated technology is aimed at ensuring a more dynamic driving experience as well as optimum active and passive safety.

The S 63 AMG, with its 386kW AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine developing 630Nm of torque, is capable of accelerating to a speed of 100km/h in 4.6 seconds. The S 65 AMG, meanwhile, demonstrates even greater superiority: its AMG 6.0-litre biturbo V12 engine delivers maximum power of 450kW and maximum torque of 1000Nm, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds. Both saloons are electronically limited to 250 km/h. Despite no changes having been made to the engine data and performance values, it has still been possible to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 3.0 percent.

Visually there's a new, more pronounced arrow-shaped radiator grille, featuring twin chrome-plated louvres in the case of the S 65 AMG. The new front apron incorporates striking, AMG-specific LED daytime driving lights and two transverse air outlets on each side. Further reminders of the car's pedigree include the "6.3 AMG" or "V12 Biturbo" lettering on the front wings and redesigned exterior mirrors.

Side sill panels emphasise the elegant line of the front apron through to the rear of the vehicle, with its new rear apron. New rear lamps with 52 LED's in the form of a double "C" also give the S-Class an unmistakable appearance from behind.

A distinctive element of both models comes in the guise of the sports exhaust with two chromed twin tailpipes, featuring a V12 design in the case of the S 65 AMG. Visual aspects which distinguish the V8 from the V12 model also include the AMG light alloy wheels: the S 63 AMG has 19-inch multi-spoke wheels painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and fitted with 255/40 (front) and 275/40 (rear) tyres. The S 65 AMG, on the other hand, comes with 20-inch forged wheels painted in titanium grey with a mirror finish and fitted with 255/35 (front) and 275/35 (rear) tyres.

Safety first

The AMGsports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC) provides crosswind stabilisation as standard equipment for the first time: thanks to this function, influences caused by crosswinds are compensated for — by adjusting the wheel load distribution within milliseconds, using the yaw-rate and lateral acceleration sensors of the ESP Electronic Stability Program.

Also making up the standard equipment is the new Torque Vectoring Brake: when cornering, brief direct application of the brakes has an effect on the car's inner rear wheel to improve cornering. The Torque Vectoring Brake is an additional feature of ESP and improves responsiveness as well as active handling safety.

And with its variable ratio depending on steering angle, the Direct-Steer system helps to ensure a more direct response when cornering, and therefore more responsive handling.

In addition, both of the top-of-the-line models feature a combination of camera and radar-based driver assistance systems. These include the Attention Assist drowsiness detection system, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and the Pre-Safe Brakes, which are linked to the proximity regulating radar and intervene independently in the event of an impending accident to act like an invisible crumple zone.

The Night View Assist with infrared camera also features a pedestrian detection system. The pictures from the windscreen camera are also used by the new Speed Limit Assist, available as an option. The Brake Assist Plus and Distronic Plus proximity control support the driver in the event of emergency braking. The Pre-Safe positioning function and Neck-Pro luxury head restraints are now also included as standard.

Luxury inside

As soon as its door is opened, the S 65 AMG welcomes the driver with large, animated "AMGV12 BITURBO" lettering in the instrument cluster's central display. The main menu provides the driver with information about engine oil temperature, current gear range, battery voltage, and the Racetimer, which displays lap times when on the race track.

In the case of the S 63 AMG, the extensive range of standard equipment includes Passion leather appointments, with natural leather in the seat side bolsters, front sports seats with climate control, massage, multicontour and driving dynamics control functions. Burr walnut trim elements and the AMG-specific analogue clock, featuring an IWC design, are a given in both models.

Both the Speedshift 7G-Tronic of the S 63 AMG, as well as the five-speed automatic Speedshift transmission of the S 65 AMG, are fitted with Direct Select gearshift. Gear changes are carried out by means of aluminium shift paddles on the new AMG sports steering wheel.

Now, bring on the track…