Mercedes-AMG has revealed its 2024 SL 63 S E Performance hybrid, which will be the most powerful SL to date.
“We can’t confirm yet whether the SL 63 S E Performance will be offered in Australia,” a spokesperson from Mercedes-Benz Australia told CarExpert.
The latest roadster to wear the SL nameplate will feature a V8 bi-turbo engine under its long bonnet, combined with an electric motor on the rear axle.
The V8 engine produces 450kW of power and 850Nm of torque.
The electric motor is mated to a two-speed transmission and a rear-axle limited-slip differential. A 6.1kWh battery pack is located above the rear axle. The electric motor produces 70kW continuous power and 150kW peak power.
Combined outputs when the electric motor and petrol engine are accounted for are 600kW of power and 1080Nm of torque, however with full force on the accelerator and launch control this figure can peak at 1420Nm.
The lithium-ion battery can be charged using one of four regenerative power settings, or the onboard 3.7kW charger. It’s good for 13km of pure electric range.
The SL 63 S E Performance has eight AMG Dynamic Select drive modes including electric, battery hold, comfort, smoothness, Sport, Sport+, Individual and Race.
The vehicle turns on in “silent mode” or comfort mode, so you can make your exit from the driveway without upsetting the neighbours.
Setting the plug-in hybrid SL 63 apart from the V8-only model is the charging port perched on its perky rear, along with unique badging.
Mercedes-AMG has kept most of the diffuser and exhaust design relatively similar to its internal-combustion sibling which was revealed earlier this year.
Near the front fender, there is “V8 BiTurbo E Performance” badge which Mercedes-AMG says “indicates the exclusive drive”.
The roadster rolls on 20-inch multi-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels, which are aerodynamically optimised and are painted with a matte black and high-sheen finish.
The front tyres are 265/40 R20 units, while the rear runs 295/35 R20 rubber. Customers can also choose from 20-and-21-inch light alloy and forged wheels.
The SL 63 S E Performance comes with active rear-axle steering as standard, to tighten the turning circle at low speeds and make for a more stable, long-wheelbase feel at high speeds. Carbon ceramic brakes are standard.
Like the non-hybrid model, the plug-in hybrid features a 2-plus-2 cabin. Up the front, there are electronically adjustable AMG sports seats. AMG gives customers the option of integrated headrests and ventilation openings.
Seat upholstery can be from a choice of one- or two-tone Nappa leather options.
The portrait-style infotainment system runs Mercedes-Benz’s most recent MBUX software with built-in AMG features including hybrid-specific displays and functions.
