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While AMG's rapid expansion of its "E Performance" hybrid lineup didn't exactly start out well (cough, four-cylinder C63 S E Performance, cough), the maker of high-performance machines under the three-pointed-star has been quick to remedy that with an onslaught of V8s. The latest coverup for the displeasing C63 comes in the form of the SL roadster, with its new SL 63 S E Performance variant being crowned the fastest SL ever.
The E Performance combines a rear-mounted electric motor with the same twin-turbo 4.0 liter V8 found in the latest S63 and GT63 S sedans. The version that powers the SL delivers 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, and together with the 201-hp motor, the SL 63 S E Performance is rated at a monstrous 805 hp and 1,047 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain rockets the roadster from 0-60 mph in just 2.8 seconds, though it doesn't sound like much compared to the 3.0-second estimate for the regular, non-hybrid SL.
The electric motor gets its juice from a 6.1-kWh battery, which lives just above the rear axle and is said to prioritize power delivery over range. The motor is also linked to a two-speed transmission and a limited-slip rear differential, and charging is possible through a 3.7-kW onboard AC charger. While the electric motor is mounted at the rear, it can send power to the front for improved traction thanks to the roadster's 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system. The E Performance also offers four regenerative braking modes––including an EV-like one-pedal driving mode––which can be selected using a button on the steering wheel.
Other hybrid-specific upgrades include active roll stabilization and rear-wheel steering (both of which come standard), and the downforce-inducing rear spoiler can hide beneath the rear decklid. There's also an optional aerodynamics package for the E Performance, which bolts on an underbody spoiler for reduced front-axle lift. Stopping power comes in the form of large ceramic brakes, which include six-piston front calipers with 16.5-inch discs, along with single-piston calipers and 15.0-inch discs in the rear.
In terms of design, the E Performance largely resembles the rest of the SL lineup, and we're not complaining. The most noticable difference is the charging port under the right-side taillight, along with a smattering of "E Performance" badges and an "SL 63 S" moniker finished in bright red. This model also features unique wheel designs in 20- and 21-inch sizes.
Pricing hasn't been announced yet, but the SL 63 S E Performance won't be cheap by any means. The standard SL 63 opens things up at $188,150, which means the E Performance will definitely cross the $200K line.
Image Credits: Mercedes
Revealed
Dec 16, 2023
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The Mercedes-AMG SL 63 E Performance Claims To Be The Quickest SL Ever
The powerful roadster combines a V8 engine with an electric motor to make 805 hp.
While AMG's rapid expansion of its "E Performance" hybrid lineup didn't exactly start out well (cough, four-cylinder C63 S E Performance, cough), the maker of high-performance machines under the three-pointed-star has been quick to remedy that with an onslaught of V8s. The latest coverup for the displeasing C63 comes in the form of the SL roadster, with its new SL 63 S E Performance variant being crowned the fastest SL ever.
The E Performance combines a rear-mounted electric motor with the same twin-turbo 4.0 liter V8 found in the latest S63 and GT63 S sedans. The version that powers the SL delivers 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, and together with the 201-hp motor, the SL 63 S E Performance is rated at a monstrous 805 hp and 1,047 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain rockets the roadster from 0-60 mph in just 2.8 seconds, though it doesn't sound like much compared to the 3.0-second estimate for the regular, non-hybrid SL.
The electric motor gets its juice from a 6.1-kWh battery, which lives just above the rear axle and is said to prioritize power delivery over range. The motor is also linked to a two-speed transmission and a limited-slip rear differential, and charging is possible through a 3.7-kW onboard AC charger. While the electric motor is mounted at the rear, it can send power to the front for improved traction thanks to the roadster's 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system. The E Performance also offers four regenerative braking modes––including an EV-like one-pedal driving mode––which can be selected using a button on the steering wheel.
Other hybrid-specific upgrades include active roll stabilization and rear-wheel steering (both of which come standard), and the downforce-inducing rear spoiler can hide beneath the rear decklid. There's also an optional aerodynamics package for the E Performance, which bolts on an underbody spoiler for reduced front-axle lift. Stopping power comes in the form of large ceramic brakes, which include six-piston front calipers with 16.5-inch discs, along with single-piston calipers and 15.0-inch discs in the rear.
In terms of design, the E Performance largely resembles the rest of the SL lineup, and we're not complaining. The most noticable difference is the charging port under the right-side taillight, along with a smattering of "E Performance" badges and an "SL 63 S" moniker finished in bright red. This model also features unique wheel designs in 20- and 21-inch sizes.
Pricing hasn't been announced yet, but the SL 63 S E Performance won't be cheap by any means. The standard SL 63 opens things up at $188,150, which means the E Performance will definitely cross the $200K line.
Image Credits: Mercedes
