Major Power Upgrade! Spy Shots Reveal New Mercedes-AMG S 63: Drops PHEV, Returns to 4.0T V8 Mild Hybrid

On January 29, spy photos of the new Mercedes-AMG S 63 high-performance variant surfaced. The model abandons the current plug-in hybrid setup in favor of a 4.0T twin-turbo V8 engine with 48V mild hybrid system. To reduce weight, the lithium-ion battery and electric drive motor are removed. The engine features larger turbochargers and a flat crankshaft design, producing an estimated 640 hp, paired with a 9-speed automatic gearbox and 4MATIC all-wheel drive, fully recalibrated for optimized performance.

Exterior updates show reduced camouflage, with the grille now leaning toward an oval shape while retaining the signature AMG slightly slanted vertical slats. Front bumper air intakes and the central trapezoidal mesh remain unchanged. The car rides on 21-inch alloy wheels with drilled and slotted brake discs front and rear to prevent brake fade during high-performance driving. The rear continues the classic AMG quad square exhaust design.

Inside, the spy shots reveal a new multifunction steering wheel with aluminum shift paddles and white leather upholstery. The car is undergoing winter testing in Sweden and is in the final R&D phase. Initially planned to debut alongside the mid-cycle standard S-Class, the launch is now delayed to May–June 2026, with dealer arrivals expected in fall.