With the introduction of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift, the top-of-the-range AMG models are also in for an upgrade. There is a new engine for the S 63, a modest design change, new transmission and new all-wheel drive system.

The new S 63 4MATIC+ AMG sees its 5.5-liter V8 replaced by the 4.0-liter V8 Biturbo with hot inside V and cylinder deactivation module, just like the E 63 S AMG. It produces 612 horsepower and 850 Nm of torque, good for a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.5 seconds. The old 7-speed gearbox is replaced by the new MCT 9-speed sports transmission and the fully variable 4MATIC+ system replaces the old 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

If you want more prestige, there is the ultimate S 65 AMG model which retains its mighty 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine good for 630 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque. It’s married to the speedshift 7G-tronic automatic transmission that is perfectly capable of handling the high torque output. Both the S 63 and S 65 AMG models are electronically limited at 250 km/h, extendable to 300 km/h with the AMG’s driver package.

Both dynamic models get a modest restyle following the S-Class facelift. The front apron is characterized by a new ‘jet wing’ design. It has larger air intakes benefitting the airflow to the car’s cooling modules. The three-dimensional front splitter reduces lift at the car’s front axle.

Along the flanks of the new S-Class AMG models the car visually sits even closer to the road thanks to standard 19-inch forged light alloys on the S 63 4MATIC+ and 20-inch on the S 65. Finally the rear of the AMG’s looks even more powerful thanks to the modified tailpipe trim and updated rear apron with diffuser insert.

On the inside the new S-Class AMG models have AMG sports seats with memory function, a wealth of Nappa leather and custom AMG embroidery and badging throughout. Just like the rest of the new S-Class, the AMG models also profit from an updated interior including the 12.3-inch dual screen infotainment and instrument cluster setup first introduced in the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Further luxury is articulated through the 64-color ambient lighting scheme, high quality veneers and carbon inlays, and the high-end Burmester 3D surround sound system.

The AMG models also get the full tech palette on board making driving even more comfortable. This includes assistance systems such as distronic proximity assist, active steering assist, auto lane change, remote parking pilot and much more.

Ride comfort and dynamics are guaranteed through the car’s AMG sports suspension with AIRMATIC adaptive damping. Driving modes can be selected through the well-known DYNAMIC SELECT menu, which includes the options individual, comfort, sport and sport+. The S 65 model comes with magic body control suspension as standard, which now features a standard curve-tilting function making higher speed cornering even more comfortable for passengers.

For more information on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift in general, make sure to check out our more general release here. Prices for the AMG models are yet to be released, stay tuned as we learn more during Auto Shanghai 2017.

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