Overseas’ travel is required to experience the appeal of 1430Nm of torque.

MERCEDES Benz’s line-up of electric models already comprises a wide variety of cars of different shapes and segments – everything from EQA to EQS, and soon to include an electric G-Class - and there’s a commitment to develop only bespoke EV architectures from 2024.

So electric is very much the future for the world’s oldest car maker and, in some markets, New Zealand included, that ethos so fuels strategy some sacrifices are required.

On that alter is an ultimate S-Class just revealed in Germany.

The S63 E Performance adopts V8 plug-in hybrid technology from AMG's GT63 S E Performance sedan, with 590kW and a 0-100kmh sprint time of 3.3 seconds. That comfortable establishes it as the fastest version of one of the world's most luxurious cars.  

However, the oomph it offers is one Kiwis will have to travel overseas’, probably to Europe, to experience, with Mercedes Benz New Zealand confirming today that it won’t be in showrooms here. Meaning the most potent S will remain the fully electric one; the AMG EQS 53. 

How do they compare? The S63 E Performance retains the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8 from the previous model. It makes 450kW/900Nm, whereas the EQS’ dual motor format pumps out 484kW/950Nm. Electric wins?

No. Because, as said, the new petrol-reliant flagship now couples its V8 to a 140kW electric motor, nine-speed automatic gearbox, and 13.1kWh battery pack. Combined, the system quotes … 590kW and 1430Nm. Epic? All that and some.

Benz quotes a claimed 0-100kmh sprint time of 3.3 seconds, thanks to all-wheel drive, and a top speed of up to 290kmh. You’d never be late for a business appointment.

The electric part of the system places the motor on the rear axle, driving the rear wheels directly through an electronically-controlled two-speed transmission and a limited-slip differential.

Mercedes-AMG says this system sees electric power bypass the V8's nine-speed automatic transmission to more effectively apply to the wheels. Notwithstanding, the petrol engine and electric motor can still shift their power freely around the car, as there remains a mechanical connection between the front and rear axles. Electric driving range is just 33km.

The drivetrain has individual cooling for the battery cells, a mild-hybrid-style integrated starter-generator unit connected to the engine, four regenerative braking modes (including a one-pedal mode) and seven drive modes – Electric, Comfort, Battery Hold, Sport, Sport Plus, Slippery and Individual. All vary the balance of petrol and electric power, transmission response, steering weight, suspension firmness, and exhaust sound.

Other highlights include adaptive air suspension (which automatically lowers at high speeds), additional underbody bracing, 48-volt active anti-roll bars, and rear-wheel steering (with up to 2.5 degrees of rotation).

The brakes measure 400mm up front (with six pistons) and 380mm at the rear (with one piston), and are available with composite discs as standard, or carbon ceramics as an option. 

The S63 also adopts AMG's 'Panamericana' grille and larger air intakes, 20- or 21-inch alloy wheels, new side skirts, and a restyled rear bumper with a diffuser-style insert and four trapezoidal exhaust outlets.

AMG-embossed nappa leather upholstery, an AMG Performance steering wheel with rotary controls for the drive modes, performance displays in the multimedia system, instrument cluster and head-up display all feature. Ths car also has its own Dolby Atmos sound technology, claimed to feed multiple audio channels to the speakers and “create a 360-degree experience”.

Safety technology runs to adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist and, in markets that allow it, Level 3 semi-autonomous driving; that’s hands’ free but eyes on the road.