Stepping into the 2016 Mercedes-benz Amg S 63 is an experience akin to slipping into a perfectly tailored suit. Suddenly, every other car feels a little less refined. Positioned just below the prestigious Maybach, the S63 stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury and high-performance engineering.
Our test drive of this $160,315 powerhouse wasn’t conducted in a serene countryside setting. Instead, we plunged it into the heart of a typical Wednesday morning rush hour, navigating from Hoboken, NJ, to Manhattan via the Lincoln Tunnel at 10:30 AM. Picture this: sweltering 95-degree heat, standstill traffic due to a lane closure, and pedestrians weaving through stalled cars on the New Jersey side of the tunnel entrance. In short, a driver’s worst nightmare.
Yet, cocooned inside the S63, the external chaos faded into insignificance. We reclined in the opulent seats, cranked up the premium sound system, and let the powerful air conditioning envelop the cabin. For the entire 45-minute crawl through the gridlocked tunnel, it was as if the outside world ceased to exist.
Exterior Elegance and Aggressive Styling
The 2016 S63 makes a bold statement with its generous dimensions. Everything about this car is substantial, from the spacious front and rear seats to the cavernous trunk. It rides on imposing 19-inch AMG-specific wheels (with optional 20-inch upgrades available), and the aggressive stance is further accentuated by large, red carbon-ceramic brakes that scream performance. This car exudes a no-nonsense attitude, blending luxury with raw power.
The rear of the S63 is equally striking, featuring a diffuser with silver shadow accents and quad chrome tailpipes. These elements not only enhance the car’s sporty aesthetic but also hint at the powerful performance that lies beneath the surface.
The Pinnacle of Interior Luxury
The interior of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 is a masterclass in luxury and craftsmanship. From the ambient purple lighting strategically placed throughout the cabin to the incredibly soft, supple leather and the meticulously crafted wood and genuine metal trim, every detail exudes opulence. The cabin is a sanctuary of high-end materials and sophisticated design.
For the discerning driver, the S63 boasts model-specific AMG touches including a performance-oriented AMG steering wheel, supportive sports seats, and an AMG-calibrated infotainment screen. Buyers can further customize the rear seating with either a traditional bench or executive-style reclining seats. Like the front seats, the rear thrones can be equipped with heating, ventilation, and even “hot stone” massage functions. Additional available options include individual TFT screens with wireless AKG headsets, plush pillow headrests, temperature-controlled cup holders, and fold-out tray tables, offering a truly bespoke luxury experience.
Engine and Performance: A Symphony of Power
Under the hood, the 2016 S63 AMG houses a hand-built, bi-turbo 5.5-liter V8 engine. This powerhouse churns out a blistering 557 horsepower and a massive 664 lb-ft of torque. The result is exhilarating acceleration, propelling the car from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds. The engine delivers its power with a 33/67 front-to-rear wheel bias in normal driving conditions, ensuring optimal handling and performance. Fuel economy is respectable for a car of this caliber, ranging between 15 MPG and 22 MPG depending on driving style. Drivers can also tailor the driving dynamics by selecting between “Sport” and “Comfort” suspension and steering modes.
Intuitive Technology and Infotainment
The 2016 S63 AMG offers a user-friendly interface that blends physical controls with digital sophistication. The Nav-Climate-Audio system components feel substantial and well-built, avoiding the flimsy feel found in some competitors. While the system might not be immediately intuitive for every function, a quick glance at the owner’s manual provides clear explanations, allowing drivers to master the controls quickly.
Minor Drawbacks: A Momentary Hesitation
Even in a vehicle as meticulously engineered as the S63 AMG, there are minor imperfections. Like many Mercedes-Benz models, the 2016 S63 exhibits a slight hesitation in the accelerator response upon initial launch, both in forward and reverse. This can create a momentary feeling of uncertainty, especially when performing quick maneuvers like K-turns or merging onto busy highways. In these situations, the initial pedal input might leave you wanting a more immediate response.
Despite this minor quibble, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 remains an exceptional vehicle. It is a long, handsome, powerful, spacious, and remarkably quiet luxury sedan. It represents an upscale driving experience that is truly in a class of its own.
