Mercedes-Benz has good news and bad news for us this week, dear RIDES reader. The good news is, the all-new 2015 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG is making its debut this week simultaneously at the Los Angeles Auto Show and the Tokyo Motor Show in Japan. The bad news is that Mercedes-Benz is also announcing the end of the SLS AMG…but they’re sending it off with the most powerful SLS AMG yet. So even that’s sort of good news.

To get the bad news out of the way first: The SLS AMG Final Edition seen above will, tragically, be the last of the SLS AMG line. It’s scheduled to be replaced in a year or two by a smaller, less expensive sports car (though we wish it were being replaced by the AMG Vision Gran Turismo Concept), but in the meantime, AMG will build 350 Final Editions to send the SLS off in style. Each comes with a 591 horsepower version of AMG’s naturally-aspirated 6.2 liter V8; from the looks of the images, each SLS AMG Final Edition will also score a black hood, black front splitter and a subtle black rear spoiler, too. (Mercedes just promises “an exciting combination of truly exceptional design and equipment features.”) No word on price, but you know it won’t be cheap.

Should you require room for more than two in your stupendously fast Mercedes-Benz, though, Mercedes will be happy to point you in the direction of the new S65 AMG. Merging the glory of AMG’s twin-turbo 6.0 liter V12 that makes 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque with the luxury, style and technology of the all-new S-Class, the new S65 AMG should crush the 0-60 dash in 4.3 seconds—but based on our time in the last S65 AMG, the real fun will be how it accelerates from 60-120. If you absolutely, positively, need to drive a a thousand miles in a day and still feel fresh as a daisy when you arrive, there’s probably no better car than the S65 AMG. Just be sure to budget for speeding tickets—but if you can afford the $200,000+ S65 AMG, you can probably afford a ticket or two. [Shout-out to Mercedes-Benz!]

Press Blast:

November 15, 2013 – Affalterbach/Tokyo/Los Angeles

EUROPEAN RELEASE. INFORMATION MAY REFLECT EUROPEAN SPECIFICATION.

Two motor shows, two new AMG high-performance vehicles: Mercedes-AMG is presenting the S 65 AMG and the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION simultaneously at the Los Angeles Auto Show and the Tokyo Motor Show (both from 20 November to 1 December 2013).

Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH says “The two new AMG high-performance vehicles represent the spectacular next level for our exciting model array. The S 65 AMG stands for maximum exclusiveness and the unparalleled dynamism of a V12. With the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION we are showing an ultimate, particularly attractive variant of our super sports car.”

Twelve cylinders, biturbocharging, an output of 463 kW (630 hp) and torque of 1000 Nm – the new Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG sets new standards. These figures enable the S 65 AMG to outperform all other models in its segment. This superiority is highlighted by the car’s performance: the S 65 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Compared with the predecessor, fuel consumption has been reduced by 2.4 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC, combined). With fuel consumption of 11.9 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined), the new S 65 AMG is the world’s most fuelefficient V12 high-performance saloon in terms of power and torque. The range-topping 12-cylinder model already meets the requirements of the EU6 emissions standard, which is not due to come into force until 2015.

Key data at a glance:

* Electronically limited

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC in the S 65 AMG has three individual transmission modes, which can be selected at the press of a button in the centre console: Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S) and Manual (M). The ECO start/stop function is always activated in “C” mode.

Like the S 63 AMG, the S 65 AMG features a lithium-ion battery. This innovative technology offers numerous advantages over a conventional battery concept: with a capacity of 78 Ah, the lithium-ion battery replaces both the starter battery and the backup battery – resulting in a weight saving of over 20 kilograms.

AMG sports suspension with MAGIC BODY CONTROL

The S 65 AMG features as standard the AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL. The new S-Class is the first car in the world which is able to recognise road surface undulations in advance. If ROAD SURFACE SCAN detects such undulations with the help of the stereo camera, MAGIC BODY CONTROL adjusts the suspension in advance to suit the situation. The “Comfort” and “Sport” modes are available for a driver-defined suspension setup.

AMG forged wheels, AMG ceramic braking system optionally available

The S 65 AMG is available exclusively with AMG forged light-alloy wheels. In the standard specification, the S 65 AMG is fitted with multi-spoke light-alloy wheels in sizes 8.5 x 20 (front) and 9.5 x 20 (rear), and tyres in sizes 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 respectively. As an alternative to the AMG high-performance composite braking system, for the first time the S 65 AMG is optionally available with an AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system.

Design and equipment: dynamic, exclusive and premium quality

Luxurious and stately, powerful and exclusive, dynamic and prestigious – the S 65 AMG is a true eye-catcher with a self-assured presence. High-gloss chrome: on the S 65 AMG this design element makes a real impact, adorning the V12 radiator grille, louvres and flics (aerodynamic elements), the front splitter, the side sill panels, the rear diffuser and the twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system. The interior is characterised by an exceptional ambience coupled with exquisite, premium-quality materials – for example manifested in the exclusive nappa leather upholstery with seat upholstery layout featuring an exclusive diamond design and sophisticated delineated perforations. Further AMG equipment features include a sports steering wheel, the instrument cluster and the high-quality IWC-designed analogue clock.

Head-up display and touchpad as standard

Two new innovative developments are fitted in the S 65 AMG as standard: the head-up display projects important information, such as vehicle speed, speed limits, navigation information, traffic signs and information from DISTRONIC PLUS onto the windscreen. The new, innovative touchpad makes it significantly easier to operate the radio, telephone and navigation system. The input area is integrated into the handrest with a cover for the keypad. The head-up display and touchpad are standard features.

Saving the best for last: SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION

The grand finale: the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION brings an impressive era to an end in exclusive style. The FINAL EDITION model, built in a limited run of just 350 units globally, represents the last opportunity for customers to order a SLS AMG GT – while at the same time re-flecting the unrivalled success story and unique scope offered by the first vehicle to be completely built by Mercedes-AMG. The super sports car, with its 583 hp AMG 6.3 -liter V8 front -mid engine, offers a fascinating combination of truly exceptional design and equipment features while exclusively developed optional Cup tires enhance its dynamic performance.

The SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION is celebrating its twin world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show and the Tokyo Motor Show (both: November 20 to December 1, 2013). The market launch will begin in March 2014 and the super sports car will be available as either a Coupé or a Roadster and once 350 units have been built, production of the SLS AMG model series will come to an end.

Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: “As the first car to be completely developed by AMG, the SLS AMG marked the beginning of a new era for our company. And now, in the form of the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION, we are offering our customers one final and extremely attractive variant of our super sports car. With its numerous carbon fiber-look body components, a further optimised aerodynamic balance and optional optional optional optional Cup tires, the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION has the absolute potential to fascinate.”

Exterior with exclusive exposed carbon fiber hood and rear spoiler

The special design of the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION ensures that it stands out in visual terms: the exposed carbon fiber hood with central air outlet, the carbon fiber front splitter on the front apron, the fixed carbon fiber rear spoiler that is reminiscent of the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series and the exclusive AMG forged light-alloy wheels make it a real head-turner. Particularly in conjunction with the designo magno graphite matte paintwork that has been adopted from the SLS AMG GT3 “45th ANNIVERSARY” collector’s model race car. In addition to the carbon fiber components, the unique design AMG forged wheels have a distinctly aggressive flair. To add to the visual impression when seen from behind, the struts of the rear apron are finished in high-gloss black.

The new aerodynamic components which are comprised of an exposed carbon fiber hood, a carbon fiber rear spoiler and a carbon fiber front splitter all function to increase downforce on both the front and the rear axles. As on the SLS AMG Coupe Black Series and the SLS AMG GT3, the carbon fiber hood of the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION features a functional central air outlet. Apart from effectively dissipating engine heat, this outlet also increases downforce at the front axle and improves the Cd value. The engineers at AMG have utilized the vacuum effect to deliver the double benefit of dissipating the hot air from the engine compartment at the same time as drawing up the cool airflow from the vehicle’s underbody. The optimised aerodynamic balance not only improves the car’s potential on the racing circuit, but also contributes to handling safety.

AMG forged wheels and newly developed Cup tires

The exclusive design of the AMG forged wheels on the Final Edition are available in two color variants: inlayed in matte black with the spokes and rim flange in a high-sheen finish or completely painted matte black highlighted by a pencil thin high-sheen rim flange. Red-painted brake callipers provide an emotional and attractive contrast. New “Dunlop Sport Maxx Race” Cup tires in size 265/35 R 19 (front) and 295/30 R 20 (rear) are available on request as a no-cost option. These Cup tires have been exclusively developed for Mercedes- AMG, and not only do they improve steering precision: they also increase grip. The SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION further lends itself for high-performance driving on private or closed-off circuits.

AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine producing 583 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque

Opening the exposed carbon-fiber hood reveals the front mid-mounted AMG 6.3-liter V8 power unit set low down and well to the back. With an output of 583 hp at 6800 rpm and maximum torque of 479 lb-ft of torque at 4750 rpm, the high-revving eight-cylinder engine guarantees dynamic driving at its finest.

The SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds, and can reach 124 mph in 11.2 seconds. The top speed is 197 mph (electronically limited).

Fast-reacting, variable and emotionally exciting – the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission proves to be the perfect match for the V8 naturally aspirated engine. With four shift programs, RACE START and an automatic double-declutching function, the dual-clutch transmission mounted in a transaxle configuration on the rear axle brings with it the perfect prerequisites for top performance. The particularly dynamic shift characteristics, and the shorter reaction time when selecting gears manually, enhance the emotional experience for the driver. The AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension with variable, electronically controlled damping, includes the “Sport” and “Sport plus” modes.

Interior with designo Exclusive leather in a diamond pattern

It is not only the exterior design and the engineering of the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION that will satisfy the most discerning of tastes, but also the interior: the high-quality ambience is characterised above all by the striking designo Exclusive leather in a diamond-stitch pattern that is used to upholster the center panels of both the seats and the doors. Contrasting topstitching in silver coordinates perfectly with the black leather upholstery, the silver seat belts and the black floor mats edged in silver leather. High gloss carbon fiber trim comes as standard.

A particularly exclusive detail is the “AMG FINAL EDITION – 1 of 350” badge on the carbon fiber center console. A further high-quality detail of the dashboard is the unique “3D seam”: a fine strip of Alcantara® set into the leather-covered upper dashboard. This high level of attention to detail is a signature hallmark of Mercedes-AMG. Contrasting topstitching skilfully handworked in silver adds the finishing touch to the 3D seam, underlining the craftsmanship involved. The AMG Performance steering wheel in Alcantara® with a silver 12 o’clock marking features high-gloss black metal inserts which match the high-gloss black surrounds of the air vents. The sports seats feature an embossed AMG crest in the head restraints.

Additional attractive optional AMG extras (selection):

• Carbon Fiber Exterior Mirror Covers
• Carbon Fiber Engine Compartment Covers
• Extended Interior Carbon Fiber package (additional carbon-fiber trim on seat backrest and side, as well as door sill panels)
• AMG Carbon-Ceramic High-Performance braking system
• AMG Performance Media
• Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG surround sound system

Tremendous variety, terrific success story

Whether Coupé, Roadster, GT, Black Series, Electric Drive, the GT3 racing version, the new FINAL EDITION or – last not least – the Official F1® Safety Car in the Formula 1® World Championship: the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has been causing a stir since 2009. The output of the models with road-going approval ranges from 563 hp to 740 hp.

The super sports car celebrated its world premiere in its Coupé guise at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt/Main in September 2009, with the market launch taking place in the spring of 2010. The spectacular gull-wing model was followed in 2011 by the SLS AMG Roadster and the customer-sport racing model, the SLS AMG GT3. With various titles in international championships such as the ADAC GT Masters, the FIA GT3 European Championship and the FIA GT1 World Championship, as well as over 100 victories in race series on five continents, the racing version of the gull-wing model has impressively demonstrated its extraordinary performance. In particular, long-distance successes in the Bathurst 12-hour race and the 24-hour races in Dubai, at the Nürburgring, in Spa-Francorchamps and in Barcelona have spectacularly confirmed the competitiveness of the racing gull-wing model. In 2013 alone, the SLS AMG GT3 2013 thus claimed the “grand slam” of classic GT3 long-distance races, with four victories in succession. In the hotly contested Blancpain Endurance Series, the SLS AMG GT3 similarly won the championship title in 2013.

Since early 2010 the SLS AMG has also been ensuring safety in Formula 1, the ultimate motor racing series, as the Official F1® Safety Car. The FORMULA 1 SHELL BELGIAN GRAND PRIX in September 2012 saw the SLS AMG GT take over this role.

In June 2013 came the market launch of the two most powerful variants: the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series with 622 hp and the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive with 740 hp.

SLS AMG now already a classic of the future

Since its world premiere in 2009 the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has won numerous awards of international significance. Not least on the basis of its breathtaking design and acknowledged superb driving dynamics, the super sports car from Mercedes-AMG is today already deemed to be a classic of the future.