Tech
2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 Plug-In Hybrid Is an 805-HP Beast
- Mercedes-AMG has revealed a hybrid version of the GT coupe, which produces 805 horsepower and 1047 pound-feet of torque.
- The 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance pairs a twin-turbo V-8 with a rear-mounted electric motor.
- Mercedes claims a zero-to-60-mph sprint of 2.7 seconds and a top speed of 199 mph.
Mercedes-AMG decided that the GT63 coupe’s 577 horsepower wasn’t enough. Meet the new range-topping 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance, which emits a beastly 805 hp from its hybrid V-8 powertrain. Revealed in Shanghai during the Formula 1 race weekend, the new E Performance model has a hybrid setup that takes inspiration from proven technology used in the world’s top open-wheel race cars. This same powertrain already appeared in the mechanically related SL63 convertible.
Hi-Po Hybrid
The E Performance system pairs a 603-hp twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 with a rear-mounted electric motor. The permanently excited synchronous e-motor produces 201 hp, which it sends to the wheels through a two-speed transmission and limited-slip differential. The e-motor can also send its power to the front wheels if necessary for extra traction. Along with 805 ponies, the hybrid system pumps out a total of 1047 pound-feet of torque.
Feeding the e-motor is a lightweight 6.1-kWh AMG-specific battery that lives above the rear axle and has a direct cooling system that sends a special fluid around each of the 560 cells to maintain a consistent temperature and improve battery performance. Mercedes claims the coolant they developed can store more thermal energy than water-based systems and has a heat capacity two to three times higher. Mercedes also says the battery tech is informed by the hybrid system in the company’s Formula 1 race cars and focuses on fast power delivery and draw instead of prioritizing range. The pack is recharged with a 3.7-kW on-board AC charger.
Mercedes claims the E Performance will blast to 60 mph in 2.7 seconds en route to a 199 mph top speed. That’s three-tenths quicker to 60 mph than the company’s claim for the standard GT63. There are eight different drive modes, including an all-electric setting, Sport, Sport+, and Race. The hybrid AMG also gets four levels of regeneration for the battery, including a mode that’s akin to one-pedal driving in an EV.
More Technical Goodies
Mercedes revised the aerodynamics for the AMG GT63 S E Performance, adding a new carbon element on the underbody ahead of the engine. This piece lowers by roughly 1.6 inches when the car reaches 50 mph, creating a Venturi effect that pulls the car downward and lessens lift on the front end. The E Performance is also fitted with a retractable rear spoiler that raises at over 50 mph and can alternate among five different angles either to improve stability or minimize drag.
The E Performance comes standard with AMG’s active ride control, which uses active hydraulics instead of mechanical anti-roll bars that work in conjunction with adaptive dampers—each featuring two hydraulic connections—that are all interconnected. Mercedes says this system allows for “a very wide roll spring rate while at the same time reduce rolling movements,” so the AMG can easily switch between comfortable daily driving and athletic handling. Rear-wheel steering is also standard, making the sports car more stable under high-speed corning and more nimble in tight spaces.
Visual changes are minor, with a charging port at the rear, a red “GT 63 S” badge, twin trapezoidal tailpipes, and “E Performance” badges on the front fenders. 10-spoke, 20-inch wheels finished in Tantalum Grey are standard, with other 20- and 21-inch designs available. Behind the wheels sit bronze six-piston fixed front calipers and single-piston floating rear calipers. These clamp onto carbon-ceramic brake discs that measure 16.5 inches up front and 15.0 inches at the rear.
Not much is changed inside either, with power adjustable AMG sports seats fitted as standard that include a massage function. Performance bucket seats are optional, and a variety of leather and microfiber upholstery choices can be had. In the U.S., Mercedes is also launching the Manufaktur Signature program, which brings exclusive paint options, nappa leather with diamond quilting throughout the cabin, and a hand-stitched steering wheel. There are also deep-pile floor mats, a unique pattern on the illuminated door sill panels, and “Manufaktur” branding on the center console.
The GT63 S E Performance will reach dealerships in the U.S. in late 2024. Mercedes hasn’t revealed a price yet, but it won’t be cheap. The standard GT63 starts at $177,050, so we would bet the new E Performance model will start over $200K.
Caleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old, and he realized his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He loves quirky and obscure autos, aiming to one day own something bizarre like a Nissan S-Cargo, and is an avid motorsports fan.
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