With the constant flow of new EVs and SUVs into the market, it’s a nice change having two sportscars launched and they’re not just ordinary sporty models too. Both are from Mercedes-AMG, the high-performance unit of the German automaker – the GT 63 4MATIC+ Coupe and the new SL 63 S E Performance.
“The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ Coupe and Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE represent the ultimate expression of AMG performance and engineering mastery. Both are powered by the iconic AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, delivering explosive power, razor-sharp throttle response, and a sound that’s unmistakably AMG. The AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ Coupe is the pinnacle of the modern sportscar — combining motorsport precision with surprising everyday usability — while the AMG SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE redefines open-top performance with its innovative hybrid technology, seamlessly blending electric boost with V8 power for thrilling acceleration and grand touring luxury. Together, they showcase the full spectrum of AMG’s high-performance DNA: from track-honed intensity to top-down exhilaration,” said Nadia Trimmel, Vice-President, Marketing & Sales Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia.
“At Mercedes-Benz, we strive to create moments that stir the senses and leave lasting impressions. These cars embody the thrill, precision, and unmistakable character of AMG, while staying true to our promise of luxury, innovation, and presence. This is what it means to experience a Mercedes moment — pure emotion at every turn,” added Amanda Zhang, CEO & President, Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia.
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ Coupe
Priced from RM1,882,888 (excluding insurance), this is the second-generation of the sportscar range at the pinnacle of the AMG line-up. As with all models from Mercedes-AMG, the 4-litre V8 biturbo engine is not just made at the original AMG factory but each engine is entirely assembled – by hand – by a Master Engine Builder. This is the ‘One Man, One Engine’ philosophy which emphasises craftsmanship and a very personal touch. Each engine builder gets to place a small plaque on the engine with his name on it… confident that it is among the best engines ever built.
With 585 hp/800 Nm, the 1,970 kg sportscar can rocket to 100 km/h from standstill in a claimed 3.2 seconds and, if you can find a enough road, reach 315 km/h. Other than the German autobahn, reaching that top speed would be illegal…
Helping the GT 63 to get to such high speeds is the exceptionally efficient aerodynamic form. Carefully shaped in the wind tunnel, air flow is further optimised by an intelligent aero system which balances low drag with minimal lift.
A technical highlight in the aero development is the 2-part, active air control system AIRPANEL. The first part operates with vertical slats that are hidden behind the lower air intake in the front apron. The second part is located behind the upper air intake and has horizontal louvres. Normally all slats are closed to minimise air resistance but if the operating temperature reaches certain levels for certain components, fins open to let in air (the second system only from 180 km/h) and allow maximum cooling air to flow to the heat exchangers.
The active aerodynamic element, which is hidden in the underbody in front of the engine, also contributes to the improved handling. This carbon profile, which weighs around 2 kgs, is an exclusive AMG development and protected by patents. It reacts to the position of the AMG drive programmes and automatically lowers by around 40 mm at 80 km/h. This creates a venturi effect, which sucks the car onto the road and reduces lift on the front axle. The driver feels this positively in the steering as the AMG GT can be steered more precisely in bends with even more directional stability.
Power from the engine is transmitted via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission to all four wheels by the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. The intelligent system combines the advantages of different drive concepts with fully variable torque distribution on the front and rear axle. The transition from rear to all-wheel drive and vice-versa takes place continuously, based on a sophisticated matrix that integrates the intelligent control into the overall vehicle system architecture.
An electromechanically-controlled clutch variably connects the constantly-driven rear axle with the front axle. The best possible torque distribution is continuously calculated depending on the driving situation and the driver’s wishes. The variability can go from traction-oriented all-wheel drive with 50:50 power distribution to 100% rear-wheel drive. In addition to traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel drive also improves longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration.
Further ensuring maximum traction is an electronically controlled rear axle locking differential. This not only improves rear wheel traction but also enables increased cornering. In addition, driving stability is optimised when changing lanes at high speed.
AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL enhances driving dynamics by actively compensating for body roll using advanced electromechanical stabilisers on both axles. Sensors monitor driving conditions and road surfaces up to 1,000 times per second, allowing the suspension and steering to adapt instantly.
This system enhances the car’s agility and control at the limits but also improves ride comfort during everyday driving. It sharpens the vehicle’s lateral dynamics for a more engaging drive while maintaining a smooth, composed feel on straights.
The AMG GT Coupe is also equipped with active rear-axle steering which turns the rear wheels in the opposite direction (up to 100 km/h) or in the same direction (faster than 100 km/h) as the front wheels. This enhances vehicle controllability in the limit area as well as reduces steering effort because the translation of the front wheel steering is more direct.
A car with this much power would certainly need strong stopping power, and this is provided by the AMG high-performance compound brake system. The composite brake discs are particularly light and with new directional perforation in the discs which give weight savings and better heat dissipation, there is faster response in the wet and better cleaning of the pads after braking.
The interior design bears all the AMG high-performance sportscar genes. The cockpit design, right down to the central display in the centre console, is focused on the driver, with the fully digital instrument cluster integrated into a 3-dimensional visor.
The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system is intuitive to use and capable of learning. It offers extensive AMG-specific content in 5 display styles. In the AMG Performance menu, for example, the driver can call up a wide range of data with a tap of the finger on various icons: from output, torque, or lateral acceleration to the power distribution of the all-wheel drive or the current vehicle condition with tyre pressure and fluid temperatures. The wheel angles on the front and rear axles or the oil pressure in the active roll stabilisation system can also be displayed.
The 3 rounded double spokes of the AMG performance steering wheel combine stability with lightness. The steering wheel rim, flattened at the bottom is covered in carbonfibre/MICROCUT Microfibre. A sensor mat is also included to detect ‘hands-on’: if the driver does not keep their hands on the steering wheel for a certain period, a warning cascade is started which, if the driver continues to be inactive, finally activates the emergency stop assistant.
AMG TRACK PACE is on board as standard. The software is part of the MBUX infotainment system and records more than 80 pieces of vehicle-specific data (eg speed, acceleration, steering angle, brake pedal actuation) 10 times per second while driving over a defined route. 40 parameters can be displayed live in the Telemetry screen, up to 4 of them at the same time.
Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE
The SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE completes the latest SL range in the Malaysian market. It is the fifth model to feature AMG’s cutting-edge E PERFORMANCE hybrid technology and is the most powerful SL ever built. The AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine combined with an electric drive unit produces 816 hp and up to 1,420 Nm of system torque to give a 0 to 100 km/h capability said to be 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 317 km/h.
As a roadster, the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE features a classic soft top with optional 2+2 seating. The extroverted design emphasises the sporty potential from all perspectives: an elongated bonnet with pronounced power domes, short overhangs, and the flat front end create attractive proportions.
The standard SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE is priced from RM2,168,888 (without insurance). At extra cost, customers can individualise their car with AMG design packages such as the Night Package, Aerodynamics Package, or the Exterior Carbon Fibre Package.
Motorsport-derived technologies can be found in various areas of the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE and one area in particular is the AMG High Performance battery pack. The development of this lithium-ion energy storage is inspired by technologies proven in the Formula 1 hybrid electric racing cars of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team.
The AMG High Performance battery increases the overall performance of the SL Roadster. Added to this is the rapid energy consumption and high-power density. The high-performance battery offers a capacity of 6.1 kWh, 70 kW continuous power, and 150 kW peak power. It is possible to travel up to 13 kms on just electric power.
The driver can select 4 different levels of recuperation power. In the highest level, one-pedal driving is possible. Over 100 kW of power can be fed back into the battery to extend its range before recharging is necessary. Another advantage of recuperation: the vehicle does not become faster when driving steeply downhill. The system works like an engine brake.
The hybrid drivetrain usually starts silently when the electric motor is switched on. But there is also a powerful AMG-typical start-up sound generated as acoustic feedback which is radiated into the interior via the vehicle speakers.
Inside the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE, one of the highlights are the electrically adjustable AMG Performance seats. Three massage programmes makes long-distance motoring more comfortable and with the ENERGIZING Package Plus, the comfort levels are completed by relaxing seating functions and lighting moods.
The large selection of seat covers reflects the range from comfortable, to performance-oriented features. Single-tone and two-tone Nappa leather is included, as is the particularly elegant MANUFAKTUR upholstery in Nappa leather with diamond quilting. The sportiness is emphasised by the combination of Nappa leather with MICROCUT microfibre and contrasting topstitching in yellow or red.
The MBUX multimedia system is intuitive to use and capable of learning. Unlike the MBUX displays in Mercedes-Benz models, it has numerous AMG and hybrid-specific displays and functions. Exclusive menu items such as AMG Performance underline the sporty character, while high-quality graphics visualise the power flow of the hybrid drive system.