Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 63 S

Model history (2019–2022) — Mercedes‑AMG GT 63 S 4‑Door Coupé (X290)

When AMG decided to build a family‑friendly GT, it didn’t simply stretch the two‑door GT. The X290 rides on Mercedes’ MRA architecture (kin to E‑Class/CLS), yet it was engineered in Affalterbach to feel every inch an AMG. Launched for 2019, the range‑topper 63 S packed the hand‑built M177 4.0‑litre biturbo V8 with 639 PS and 900 Nm, AMG’s 9‑speed MCT, fully variable 4MATIC+ with a RWD Drift Mode, rear‑axle steering and an electronically controlled rear diff. It was a clear shot at the Porsche Panamera Turbo, with the Audi RS 7 Sportback and BMW M8 Gran Coupé also firmly in its crosshairs.

From the outset the 63 S made headlines with a Nürburgring class record for four‑seat production cars, underlining that this sleek hatch‑backed “four‑door coupé” had genuine track credibility despite its size. Testers praised its ferocious thrust, precise steering and surprising agility; the triple‑chamber air suspension’s breadth of ability impressed, even if the ride on 21‑inch wheels could feel busy. Early criticism targeted the complex infotainment and a slightly snug rear headroom under the plunging roofline, but the cabin’s AMG‑specific displays, fighter‑jet console and optional Executive rear setup won many fans.

AMG kept it fresh with continual upgrades. For 2020, the car adopted MBUX with the AMG Track Pace app and expanded driver‑assist tech, plus wider seating/configuration choices. The 2021 update brought revised adaptive damping hardware and software, the new twin‑spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with haptic controls, additional MANUFAKTUR paints and trims, and further personalization. Power output remained at 639 PS, but the chassis tune grew more nuanced. In 2022, while the spotlight shifted to the wild 843‑hp GT 63 S E Performance plug‑in, the pure‑ICE 63 S carried on with minor spec tweaks—and grabbed global attention as the Official FIA Formula 1 Medical Car, a role tailor‑made for its mix of space, speed and stability.

Brand‑wise, the GT 4‑Door cemented AMG as more than a tuner: it was a complete AMG product line, bridging hardcore GT DNA with everyday utility. On the road it projected quiet menace; on the autobahn it was devastatingly effective; and on track days it could humble lighter machinery. Period reviews often concluded that if you wanted a Panamera alternative with a brasher soundtrack and a more playful rear axle, this was it. Today the X290 63 S stands as one of the last great non‑hybrid AMG V8 long‑roof missiles—an indulgent, charismatic flagship that made the school run feel like a formation lap.