2010 Mercedes-Benz S 63 and S 65 AMG revealed

The Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG, the sporty top-of-the-line versions of the newly-facelifted S-Class, were launched at the 2009 Shanghai Auto Show with a series of subtle updates. We assume the new models premiered in China because it is one of the few countries in the world where the rich aren’t suddenly going bankrupt.

The 2010 S 63 AMG comes with a 525 hp AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with 630 Nm of torque, capable of accelerating from zero to 100 kph in 4.6 seconds. The S 65 AMG comes with a 612 hp AMG 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 engine with 1000 Nm of torque, offering a zero to 100 kph time of 4.4 seconds. Both saloons are electronically limited to 250 kph. Mercedes-Benz also claims to have reduced fuel consumption and emissions by a massive 3%.

External changes include a new arrow-shaped radiator grille, featuring twin chrome-plated louvres in the case of the S 65 AMG. The new front apron incorporates now-common LED driving lights and reshaped air outlets. Further features include the “6.3 AMG” or “V12 Biturbo” lettering on the front fenders and redesigned exterior mirrors. Other small changes involve the body kit and rear lights.

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 and fitted with 255/40 (front) and 275/40 (rear) tyres. The S 65 AMG 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.

The AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC) provides crosswind stabilisation as standard equipment for the first time. ABC compensates against the effect of crosswinds by adjusting the wheel load distribution within milliseconds.

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 vehicle’s inner rear wheel so that the saloon corners precisely and under control at all times. The Torque Vectoring Brake is an additional feature of the Electronic Stability Program. Also included in the AMG package are better brakes.

The driving experience is further diluted by the Direct-Steer system, with its variable ratio depending on steering angle.

The interior appointments are mildly upgraded for the AMG models. The computer’s 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. Other changes over the standard S-Class are largely limited to leather choices and badging, along with the shape of the front seats. Safety features are similar to the standard 2010 S-Class, also recently revealed.

While the S 63 AMG is available in short or long-wheelbase versions, the S 65 AMG is only available as a long-wheelbase version. So these models should reach showrooms in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the coming months, with the expected UAE launch before the end of summer this year.

To keep track of GCC pricing and specs when they become available, visit the Mercedes-Benz S-Class buyer guide.