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Merc unveils monster 430kW S63 AMG

AFFALTERBACH, Germany -  German automaker Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its new S63 AMG.

Powering the lunatic limousine is a 5.5 V8 biturbo engine, the most powerful BlueDirect engine in its arsenal. The engine is capable of 430kW/900Nm and mated to a AMG Speedshift MCT seven-speed sports transmission.

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It uses a lightweight construction based on the AMG lightweight performance philosophy, meaning the new model is 100kg lighter than its predecessor. Combined fuel consumption is down from 10.3 to 10.1 litres/100km and CO2 emissions reduced from 237 to 242g/km.

'LIGHTWEIGHT CONSTUCTION IS KEY'


Mercedes-AMG GmbH CEO, Ola Källenius says: "Following the successful launch of the A45 AMG and the CLA45 AMG, the new S63 AMG highlights our expertise in the automotive high-end segment.

“Lightweight construction and absolute performance are among the key strengths of the new flagship model from Mercedes-AMG."

The outer skin of the S-Class, including the roof and the front end is made of aluminium. Mercedes claims a 4.0 second 0-100km/h sprint for the All-wheel Drive variant while the Rear-wheel Drive model is expected to take 4.4 seconds. Depending on model it has an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.

The AMG sports exhaust system has automatic logic-controlled exhaust flaps in both rear silencers. The automaker says this means when the transmission is in "C" (Controlled efficiency) mode, the flaps remain closed limiting noise.

In "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual) modes, the exhaust flaps open earlier enabling the driver and fellow road users to hear its powerful grunt.

MAGIC BODY CONTROL


The RWD features AMG sports suspension based on the automaker's "magic body control." Mercedes-Benz says the new model will be "the first car in the world able to recognise road surface undulations in advance."

If the system detects undulations, with the aid of a camera, it adjusts the suspension in advance to suit road conditions.

There are also new AMG forged light-alloys exclusive to the SG63 AMG. The alloys are painted in grey with a high-sheen finish with 255/45 R19 tyres in the front and 285/40 R19 at the rear. Optional 20” alloys are also available.

The ceramic high-performance composite brake system has 420mm front brake discs along with an AMG Carbon Ceramic logo on the painted brake calipers.

Inside there’s badging on the front and rear seat backrests, special touches such as an embossed emblem on the armrest of the front centre console and the analogue.

Other standard goods include AMG door sill panels, floor mats, sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs and ambient lighting. Systems include attention assist, collision prevention assist and Comand Online. Systems such as Pre-Safe and Distronic Plus have been merged into Intelligent Drive.

The new S 63 AMG will make its debut at the 2013 Frankfurt auto show in September and will go on sale before the end of the year. The new S-Class will be launched in July 2013.
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