FYI: The highly-anticipated 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SE Performance has been unveiled, boasting unparalleled speed and hybrid performance.
A New Benchmark for Speed and Luxury: The 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SE Performance
by Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi
Driving on the unrestricted sections of Germany’s Autobahn reveals a clear hierarchy among vehicles. The modest hatchbacks from Renault and Volkswagen give way to sportier models, succeeded by more serious sedans and coupes from BMW and Mercedes. At the summit of this automotive pecking order lies the new apex predator: the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SE Performance.
Power and Performance Profile
Under the hood, the GT 63 SE Performance commands attention with its thunderous V8 engine, delivering a stunning 805 horsepower and an unbelievable 1,047 pound-feet of torque. This colossal power is managed seamlessly, even in Comfort mode. Slight pressure on the pedal releases the AMG’s latent power, underscored by a subdued yet distinct V8 rumble, ensuring that no one ahead is oblivious to your desire and capability to surge forward.
Comfort Meets Capability
Despite its performance pedigree, the GT is surprisingly comfortable. It’s a bit firmer compared to its near-twin, the Mercedes-AMG SL, yet remains stable and relaxing for long journeys. Optional performance seats envelop you in luxurious leather, providing exceptional support and comfort. The cabin is bathed in chrome and ambient lighting, illuminating the air vents and screens, embodying the essence of a true grand tourer.
Distinguishing Features: What Sets the E Performance Apart?
While other Mercedes-AMG GTs are similarly fast, refined, and comfortable, the E Performance stands out for several reasons. It’s not just about speed—although it’s the fastest production Mercedes to date, boasting a 0-60 mph time of just 2.7 seconds, surpassing even the AMG One hypercar. It peaks at a top speed of 199 mph, marginally higher than the regular GT 63’s 196 mph. The standard carbon-ceramic brakes, significantly larger both front and rear, ensure this beast stops on a dime.
The Hybrid Advantage
The E Performance’s major differentiator is its hybrid system. A 6.1-kilowatt-hour battery pack and a 201-horsepower electric motor enhance rear axle power through a two-speed transmission. Remarkably, the motor can power all four wheels via the same driveshaft that transmits engine power to the rear. This system operates so smoothly that transitions between electric and hybrid modes are virtually imperceptible.
Practical and Peculiar
Surprisingly, the hybrid system doesn’t drastically impinge on luggage space or the already snug backseat area. It does add weight, but Mercedes claims this provides a more balanced weight distribution. Despite these benefits, the plug-in hybrid system’s practicality is somewhat limited. It offers an electric range of just eight miles based on the optimistic European WLTP cycle—a feature more suitable for sneaking through quiet villages or dodging urban congestion charges than for highway dominance.
The GT Experience
Externally, the E Performance sports specific badging, red highlights on the rear nameplate, and charging doors on the rear bumper. It shares its rear-axle steering and active roll stabilization with the regular GT 63 and comes with standard wheel sizes that remain unchanged. Essentially, the vehicle represents an evolution rather than a revolution—providing "more" without necessarily being "better."
Driving Dynamics and Steering
While the GT 63 SE Performance boasts immense power and a refined V8 soundtrack, when it comes to steering, it leaves something to be desired. Compared to its predecessor, the steering lacks the visceral feedback and raw engagement that driving purists crave. It remains cool and composed, suitable perhaps for grand touring rather than edge-of-the-seat track days.
Conclusion: A Matter of Perspective
The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SE Performance does offer a thrilling and competent ride. Its power is exhilarating, and its aesthetics, with a handsome long nose and sculpted rear, are undeniably appealing. However, virtually all features of this hybrid marvel can be found in the more "standard" GT models. While final pricing is yet to be confirmed, the hybrid system’s added complexity and limited electric range could make some question its ultimate value.
For those scrutinizing every dollar spent, or indeed every horsepower, the SE Performance demands reflection. Yet it remains an impressive testament to Mercedes’ engineering prowess—an enticing blend of power, luxury, and technology.
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Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi
