The 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance is a powerhouse that combines extreme performance with luxury and sophistication, standing tall as one of the most remarkable vehicles in its class. With its immense power, courtesy of a hybrid powertrain, and its sleek, grand tourer design, this two-door hatchback can be compared to a male hippopotamus—massive, imposing, yet surprisingly agile for its size. Weighing in at nearly two-and-a-half tons, the GT63 S E Performance is a high-performance hybrid that offers a blend of electrification and raw V8 power to deliver a driving experience that few other vehicles can match.
Powertrain and Performance
At the heart of the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance is a powerful hybrid system that showcases the very best of AMG’s engineering prowess. The powertrain starts with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine that produces 603 horsepower and an impressive 627 lb-ft of torque. However, this is just the beginning of the story. The real magic happens with the addition of an electric motor mounted at the rear axle, which adds 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The combination of these two power sources results in a total output of 805 horsepower and an astonishing 1047 lb-ft of torque.
This hybrid setup propels the GT63 S E Performance from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 2.7 seconds, with a top speed of 199 mph. These figures put it in the upper echelons of supercar territory, making it one of the fastest four-door vehicles on the market. Despite the car’s heavy curb weight of about 4800 pounds, its hybrid powertrain ensures that it feels anything but sluggish. The 9-speed automatic transmission manages the V8 engine, while the electric motor has its own 2-speed automatic transmission to optimize performance.
In terms of handling, the GT63 S E Performance benefits from advanced suspension technology. A hydraulic anti-roll control system, similar to those found in high-performance vehicles like McLarens and Rivians, keeps the car planted through corners. This system is paired with a rear-axle steering system that can turn the rear wheels up to 2.5 degrees, helping the car navigate tight corners with surprising agility for its size.
Driving Experience
The driving experience of the 2025 GT63 S E Performance is nothing short of exhilarating. While straight-line speed is one of its standout features, the car also excels in handling, thanks to its sophisticated suspension and rear-axle steering. The hydraulic anti-roll system keeps the body in check even during aggressive cornering, making the GT63 S feel remarkably stable and composed.
However, not everything about the driving experience is flawless. One area where the GT63 S E Performance falls slightly short is in steering feedback. Although the car’s steering is quick and responsive, it lacks the tactile feedback that some drivers may desire in a performance vehicle. Additionally, the steering is overly sensitive off-center, leading to a slightly twitchy feel that requires frequent adjustments during high-speed driving.
Braking performance, on the other hand, is robust. The car is equipped with massive carbon-ceramic brake rotors, measuring 16.5 inches up front and 15 inches at the rear. These brakes provide exceptional stopping power, allowing the heavy GT63 S E Performance to shed speed rapidly. However, the brake pedal feel is not entirely consistent, and the occasional unpredictability in pedal feedback may be unsettling for some drivers.
Electric Performance
While the primary focus of the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance is undoubtedly its immense power and performance, it also boasts a hybrid system that adds a layer of practicality. The car is equipped with a 4.8-kWh battery that powers the electric motor, allowing for limited electric-only driving. Mercedes-AMG estimates that the GT63 S E Performance can travel up to seven miles on electric power alone, making it useful for short, urban commutes or situations where emission-free driving is desired.
The electric motor itself isn’t designed for high-speed driving but provides adequate power for low-speed city driving or when cruising through neighborhoods. In terms of regenerative braking, the GT63 S E Performance offers four different levels, allowing drivers to adjust how much energy is recaptured during deceleration. This helps to recharge the battery on the go and can slightly improve the car’s overall efficiency.
Charging the 4.8-kWh battery is a relatively quick process, taking about two hours when using a 220-volt outlet. The onboard 3.7-kWh charger handles the task, but many drivers may find themselves relying on the car’s V8 engine to recharge the battery during spirited driving sessions. The engine’s starter/generator can help maintain battery levels, especially when the car is in performance-oriented driving modes that emphasize speed and power over efficiency.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the GT63 S E Performance offers the type of luxury and refinement that one would expect from a high-end Mercedes-AMG model. The cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with high-quality materials used throughout. The front seats are particularly comfortable, providing ample support for long drives as well as bolstering to keep the driver and passenger in place during more spirited driving.
For those who need a bit more practicality, the GT63 S E Performance offers optional rear seats, transforming the vehicle from a two-seater into a four-seater. However, headroom in the rear is somewhat limited due to the car’s sloping roofline, making the back seats better suited for short trips or smaller passengers. The hybrid system’s battery and electric motor components do eat into the available cargo space slightly, but the rear seats can still fold down to provide additional room for luggage or larger items.
The infotainment system is state-of-the-art, featuring Mercedes’ MBUX interface, which includes a large central touchscreen and advanced voice controls. The system is intuitive to use, with sharp graphics and quick response times. The GT63 S E Performance also comes equipped with a wide array of driver-assistance technologies, making it as comfortable and safe as it is fast.
Pricing and Availability
As one might expect from such a high-performance luxury vehicle, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance comes with a hefty price tag. Mercedes estimates that the starting price will be around $200,000, putting it squarely in the upper tier of the grand tourer market. For that price, buyers get an extraordinary combination of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge hybrid technology.
The GT63 S E Performance will likely appeal to enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds: the blistering speed and power of a supercar, combined with the everyday usability and luxury of a high-end Mercedes. Its hybrid system, while not offering a huge electric-only range, still adds an extra layer of practicality and efficiency that many buyers will appreciate.
Specifications at a Glance
- Base Price: Estimated at $200,000
- Engine: Twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 producing 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque
- Electric Motor: 201 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque
- Combined Output: 805 hp and 1047 lb-ft of torque
- Battery Pack: 4.8-kWh lithium-ion battery
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic for the V8, 2-speed automatic for the electric motor
- Performance: 0-60 mph in 2.7 seconds, top speed of 199 mph
- Curb Weight: Approximately 4800 pounds
- Fuel Economy (Estimated): 14/12/19 mpg (combined/city/highway)
- Electric Range: 7 miles of EV-only driving
- Cargo Volume: 19 cubic feet behind the front seats, 6 cubic feet behind the rear seats
Conclusion
The 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance is a masterclass in combining power, luxury, and hybrid technology. Despite its significant weight, it delivers staggering performance and agility, making it one of the fastest and most capable grand tourers on the road. While its steering and brake feel may leave room for improvement, the overall driving experience is nothing short of exhilarating. For those seeking a high-performance hybrid that doesn’t compromise on luxury or speed, the GT63 S E Performance is an exceptional choice.
