That the first line in the video description of Mercedes'
S65 AMG 'trailer'
quotes its fuel consumption tells you everything about the current market. Outright power is no longer something to be boasted about. It averages 23.7mpg, if you're interested.
LWB only for the ultimate S-Class
But this is still a V12 bi-turbo AMG, so the S65 certainly doesn't want for performance. So where the
S63 AMG
has to bumble along with a 585hp, 663lb ft 5.5-litre V8 turbo, the S65 wades in with 630hp and 737lb ft from its 6.0-litre V12. The previous five-speed auto has been replaced by the AMG 7G-Tronic too, no doubt contributing to that improved mpg figure
The headline performance stats don't reveal much, the V12 just a tenth quicker to 62mph than the V8 at 4.3 seconds. We'd assume the S65 gets from 62mph to the 155mph limiter rather more swiftly though. The S63's carbon ceramic brake option is also available on the S65 for help slowing back down again.
Elsewhere, it's standard uber S-Class. Road Surface Scan and Magic Body Control work in conjunction to contain two tonnes of saloon in a straight line and 'ESP Dynamic Cornering Assist' should help when things get twistier.
New HUD will take your eyes from that wheel
In its 'selection' of interior equipment for the S65, Mercedes lists 26 items. From these, the head-up display and touchpad are most noteworthy as new tech for the S Class. The HUD is a massive 21x7cm and 'appears to float on the bonnet at a distance of about two metres from the driver'. Mercedes probably won't appreciate the comparison, but the touchpad appears to work in the same way as on the BMW 4 Series, incorporated into the top of the infotainment control dial.
Mercedes will unveil the S65 AMG simultaneously at the Los Angeles and Tokyo motor shows next week. It will be exclusively available in long wheelbase form, with UK spec and prices still to be announced. Given the S63 is now a £120K car, we can't imagine the '65 will come in at less than £150,000. Don't forget that money puts an Aston Rapide S and Bentley Flying Spur within reach too. Or perhaps give it a few years and wait until values have plummeted. 2010 S65 for £72,490 anyone?