Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance Spied In US With Weird Tailpipes

Jun. 25, 2023 7:50 AM ET byJacob Oliva Video /8 Comments

Perhaps more power is incoming for the facelifted model?

Following a global debut in 2021, theMercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performanceis up for a refresh. The top-spec model's facelifted version has been spotted byKindel Autowhile testing on US roads, wearing a manufacturer's plate. Even better, the sighting provides clues about the changes that will happen soon, including some alterations under the hood.

In the spy video uploaded to YouTube and embedded below, the electrified GT 63 was wearing thin camouflage up front, suggesting there will be updates on its front design and not justunique color options. However, experience tells us that revolutionary changes aren't happening, with mild updates to the bumper design and grille only expected.

Kindel Auto/YouTube

The rolling test vehicle was easily identifiable in the video as the "V8 Biturbo E Performance" badge near the fender was exposed, along with the GT 63 S emblem at the rear.

However, the pair of weird-looking emission tailpipes sticking out of the rear bumper piqued our interest. While these exhaust pipes will not reach production, the presence of those pipes suggests that Mercedes-AMG is working on some powertrain changes, which could entail an increase in the already mighty power output of the hybrid E Performance model.

The AMG GT 63 S E Performance already makes 831 horsepower and 1,033 lb-ft of torque in its current configuration.

Kindel Auto/YouTube

Those numbers come from a combined effort between the twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, an electric motor, and a 6.1-kWh battery pack. Without any update, the GT63 S E Performance can sprint to 62 mph in just 2.9 seconds and tap out at 196 mph.

Do take our assessment with a grain of salt, as Merc could also be working on oily bits to improve the four-door coupe's efficiency. The German automaker could also work on increasing the hybrid model's all-electric range, a measly 7.5 miles, although this is unlikely as E Performance AMGs use electricity for performance, not electric driving.

Whatever the case may be, we're not expecting a massive increase in power - at least not in the ballpark of theBrabus-tuned GT 63 S E Performancethat makes up to 930 hp, and certainly not near the 1,331-hptune for the non-hybrid GT63.