Hot cars on a cold day
It is no secret that Mercedes-Benz South Africa has recently been heavily focused on their electrification rollout. The EQ range of vehicles has been the topic of recent introductions and launches for some time now. Various models such as EQC, EQE and EQS have been introduced to our local market, it would seem that the performance side of the German brand will now get its chance again.
Related: Mercedes-Benz SUV (2021) First drive - Its all in the G-Family
On a rather chilly day at the Kyalami Grand Prix circuit, Mercedes, during the new AMG Performance Tour, unveiled now fewer than 8 new AMG branded models to the media and then to selected customers. Once the models were unveiled, we were treated to some track time with select models to sample the new tech and vehicle enhancements.
Get an Instant Offer on your new car here
Best of the rest
Festivities began with introducing the fresh new A45S and A35, with the A45 S getting track time. The updated A series is even better with a fresh interior and even better driving dynamics. Second out was a new AMG GLB 35 SUV, which we didn't get to drive but promises to make families very happy.
Next up, the Mercedes-AMG C43, a vehicle we tested at length before, but its big brother, the C63 S, stole the show. This vehicle had just recently arrived and had yet to be cleared to be driven but was on display for us to drool over. The C63 S is built right here in SA, with hand-built engines coming in from Germany and will be available in early 2024.
The Mercedes EQ electric vehicle lineup also got bolstered with the addition of AMG versions of the EQE 43 and EQS 53
Stars of the show
The tour mainly focused on introducing two new supercars, the fantastic SL43 and the earth-shattering GT63 SE. The new SL roadster introduces performance drop-top motoring infused with Formula 1-derived technology to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Powering the SL is a 2.0l turbo-charged petrol engine that pumps out a massive 280kW and 480Nm, with that power transferred via a lighting quick 9 speed MCT (multi-clutch transmission) to the road. The SL will sprint to 100km/h in just 4.3 seconds and go onto a limited speed of 275km/h.
Its on-track driving dynamics are nothing short of phenomenal with mind-bending acceleration, cornering ability and steering feedback delivering a driving experience on par with the A45 S rocket.
Pricing starts at R2 449 500
The soon-to-arrive GT63S strays into supercar territory with mind-bending performance coming from its hybrid drivetrain. Providing power is a 4.0l V8 Bi-Turbo that can churn out 620kW and 1400Nm delivering a 0-100km time of 2.9 seconds. The GT63 S will be available from early 2024 with Mercedes South Africa not having indicative pricing as yet.
The tour continues
The AMG Performance tour will continue with a number of events planned in and around Johannesburg in the coming weeks when these models can be seen by the public. It is exciting to see that Mercedes is focusing on its electrification strategy but has not abandoned its performance-craving customers. The AMG brand is alive and well and still delivering superior driving experiences and AutoTrader will be on hand to get all the info so stay tuned to our social media channels and subscribe to our newsletter.
