Power games with Mercedes-Benz S 63

In the world of six-figure super saloons, Mercedes' high-end AMG models disguise their potential well. Designed to look almost like their lesser powered cousins, you'd struggle to pick them out in a line-up of flash motors.

You'd think that, for the money, the S 63 would be a brash, extrovert machine. In reality, Mercedes has plenty of evidence pointing to buyers seeking a quieter life behind the wheel. The result is something that's unlikely to turn heads and it'sa situation buyers are happy with, leaving the exaggerated theatrics to bright red cars from Italy.

That's not to say this revised S 63 is more librarian than thrill-seeker. In truth, anything packing a 5.5-litre biturbo V8 is always going to have a naughty side to its character and this S-Class is no different. Think Olympic sprinter in a Hugo Boss suit and you're on the right track.

We've been here before; the S 63 moniker isn't new but this iteration bears little resemblance under the bonnet to what's gone before in the name of being green. The desire to seek out a few extrampg might sound silly in the context of such a machine, but every bit helps. Furthermore, improvements contribute to the company's group CO2 — the lower, the better in the eyes of the European Union. And in a very Porsche-like way, the Mercedes engineers have managed to squeeze out some impressive numbers. This is a motor boasting 544 horsepower (571bhp in optional Performance Package trim), yet returns 26.9mpg on the combined cycle and emits 244g/km CO2. That's an improvement of 25 and 30 per cent respectively over the old car.

A lot of clever stuff has been thrown at the new 5.5-litre unit. The direct injection engine includes numerous green tweaks, not least a stop-start system like you'dfind in a family hatchback. And in keeping with tradition, AMG still operates the policy of one man, one engine — yours will be built by one person from start to finish.

Further enhancing the experience is the inclusion of Mercedes' Speedshift MCT seven-speed gearbox. First seen in the current SL and subsequently the E-Class AMG models, this auto behaves more like a direct shift gearbox than a traditional slush 'box. Offering a customisable auto and a full manual mode, every driver type is catered for. Chunky paddles behind the steering wheel and a fruity throttle blip on downchanges let you know that you're not driving a regular S-Class.

Save for a few bits of new exterior trim and badging, it's only when you turn the key that you fully appreciate what you're driving. The car's deep exhaust note is very un-limo-like, while the distant growl and increased urgency when you pull away all point to a special experience.

However, the new model has matured. AMG fans will notice that the TVR-esque V8 roar has gone, replaced by a relatively quieter exhaust note when on the move. In simple terms, the hooligan element of the old car has been somewhat tamed.

From AMG's perspective this is a good thing; it acknowledges that the S 63 is bought by mature drivers who are attracted to the car's performance but would prefer to present a less raucous face to the world. For a car of this stature it's entirely appropriate and, if you do want to connect with your inner hooligan, there's always the C and E-Class AMG variants.

Don't mistake less noise for less fun though. This S 63 is more than capable of giving Italian exotica a fright when on full song. It'll sprint to 100kph in 4.5 seconds and maintain that pace all the way to the electronic limiter. Pay extra for the AMG Performance Package and you gain 27 horsepower, drop a tenth to 100kph and run out of puff only ata limited 300kph. There's also a full-on driving experience bundled for good measure along with a scattering of extra AMG goodies for the car.

Whichever version you choose, you won't be disappointed. The car's ride is cleverly managed by a revised sports suspension set-up, which minimises pitch and roll to give the S 63 a level of agility more in keeping with that of something much smaller. Factor in weighty, accurate steering and good brakes and you've got a package capable of dispatching sinuous backroads with ease one minute, and arrow-straight highways the next, without pausing for breath.

And yet for all the car's extreme performance potential, it's still very much an S-Class at heart. The cabin is a sumptuous blend of wood and leather, while space and creature comforts are never in short supply.

You could happily undertake chauffeur duties in this car — there's even a long wheelbase version — although it's doubtful that your passengers would enjoy the ride as much as you will.

26.9mpg: Despite the extra horsepower, the 5.5-litre V8 is 25 per cent more fuel efficient

Specs & ratings

Model S 63 AMG
Engine 5.5-litre V8
Transmission Seven-speed auto RWD
Max power 544bhp @ 5,500rpm
Max torque 800Nm @ 2,000rpm
Top speed 250kph (limited)
0-100kph 4.5sec
Price Dh648,305

Plus Incredible pace, refinement
Minus Not a sportscar