First drive review: the Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance hits new heights, with more drama coming at no significant loss to handling prowess or comfort
It’s the torque that benefits the most, though, climbing from an already potent 663lb ft to a considerably more serious 1082lb ft. The decision to mount the motor at the rear allows its drive to be channelled directly to the rear wheels via a two-speed gearbox. The engine, meanwhile, sends its reserves to all four wheels via the nine-speed Speedshift MCT automatic gearbox of the GT 63 S.
When fully charged, it can drive only 7.5 miles on electricity alone, and combined fuel economy is just 35.8mpg on the WLTP test for high overall CO2 emissions of 180g/km. “The focus is very much on performance,” explains Hermann. “We have electric capability, but range wasn’t a big priority for us.”
The motor was developed for far more rapid power deployment than those of normal Mercedes PHEVs. So rather than merely boosting the reserves, it also brings an added degree of response to the delivery. However, bumpy roads are dealt with authoritatively by the quick-acting adaptive dampers, which provide excellent shock absorption at speed, helping the car settle quickly when challenged by broken bitumen.What you do feel, though, is pronounced sensitivity on coarse surfaces. Large contact patches and resulting tyre roar can take the edge off the otherwise impressive touring qualities on less-than-smooth roads.
Added response and engagement can be summoned through the Sport, Sport Plus and Race driving modes. So configured, the GT 63 S E Performance feels predominately rear-biased. As such, it’s good fun. You never really lose sight of the weight brought on the motor, battery and power electronics; but the car offers astonishing acceleration and is imminently adjustable on throttle.
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