For decades, the three-pointed star has symbolized automotive luxury, but Mercedes-Benz equally signifies relentless power for enthusiasts worldwide. The pursuit of ultimate performance is deeply ingrained in the brand’s DNA, constantly pushing engineering boundaries. Today, this translates into a diverse lineup where astonishing power figures are achieved through potent gasoline engines, advanced Mercedes-AMG hybrid systems drawing from F1 tech, torquey diesels, and instantaneous electric thrust.
This journey navigates the current hierarchy of power across the Mercedes portfolio – from agile hatchbacks and commanding SUVs to elegant coupés and versatile estates. We identify the reigning champions in each category, revealing the specific Mercedes-Benz models that deliver the most horsepower and torque right now.
12. Mercedes-Benz A 220 d
188 HP / 400 NM
For those seeking a blend of premium compact motoring with diesel efficiency, the Mercedes-Benz A 220 d presents a compelling option. Powered by a refined 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine (OM 654q), it delivers a healthy 188 hp (190 PS) and a substantial 400 Nm of torque. This torque output ensures effortless cruising and confident overtaking manoeuvres. Paired with a smooth and efficient automatic transmission, the A 220 d provides a relaxed yet capable driving experience suitable for both city commutes and longer journeys.
It excels in fuel economy, achieving approximately 18.0 km/L (WLTP combined estimate), making it an economical choice for daily driving without sacrificing the premium feel associated with the Mercedes brand. Inside, occupants enjoy the modern MBUX infotainment system and the high-quality materials expected from the marque.
11. Mercedes-Benz E 450 d 4MATIC Wagon
367 HP / 750 NM
For those seeking the ultimate combination of long-distance cruising comfort, practicality, and powerful diesel torque in a wagon, the Mercedes-Benz E 450 d 4MATIC Wagon stands out. Sharing its smooth and potent 3.0-litre inline-six turbodiesel engine (OM 656 M) with the S-Class sedan, enhanced by a mild-hybrid system, it produces 367 hp and a substantial 750 Nm of torque. This ample torque makes towing effortless and provides strong acceleration even when fully loaded.
The E 450 d Wagon excels as a luxurious and refined mile-eater, offering a serene driving experience and impressive fuel efficiency for its size and performance, achieving around 16.0 km/L (WLTP combined estimate). Its spacious interior, large cargo capacity, advanced MBUX technology, and sophisticated ride quality make it a prime choice for families or professionals needing versatility without compromising on the luxury expected from Mercedes.
Suggested:
10. Mercedes-Benz S 450 d 4MATIC
367 HP / 750 NM
The Mercedes-Benz S 450 d 4MATIC embodies the ultimate expression of diesel-powered luxury and technological sophistication within the flagship S-Class range. Its advanced 3.0-litre inline-six turbodiesel engine (OM 656 M), enhanced by a 48V mild-hybrid system, produces a commanding 367 hp and an impressive 750 Nm of torque. This powertrain delivers smooth, effortless acceleration and serene high-speed cruising, perfectly complementing the S-Class character. Beyond performance, the S 450 d excels in efficiency for its class, achieving approximately 13.7 km/L (WLTP combined).
The luxury experience is unparalleled, featuring exquisite materials, cutting-edge MBUX infotainment with augmented reality navigation, advanced driver-assistance systems providing semi-autonomous capabilities, and optional features like AIRMATIC air suspension for an incredibly supple ride. The quiet cabin and meticulous attention to detail solidify its position as a benchmark for luxury travel, making it a desirable choice for discerning buyers.
9. Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 d 4MATIC
367 HP / 750 NM
As the flagship diesel SUV, the Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 d 4MATIC offers impressive torque and efficiency combined with supreme luxury and space for up to seven. It shares its advanced 3.0-litre inline-six turbodiesel engine (OM 656 M) with mild-hybrid assistance with its S-Class counterpart and the GLE 450 d SUV, generating 367 hp and a robust 750 Nm of torque. This powertrain ensures effortless progress, whether cruising on the highway or navigating challenging terrain, while delivering respectable fuel economy around 12.0 km/L (WLTP combined).
The focus area for the GLS 450 d is its role as a supremely comfortable and capable long-distance tourer, offering vast interior space, sophisticated technology through the MBUX system, premium materials, and a serene ride quality, thanks to standard air suspension. It’s a leading choice for those needing luxury SUV capability.
Suggested:
8. Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+
416 HP / 500 NM
The Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ stands as a monumental achievement in the performance hatchback segment. It earns its place by housing what is widely regarded as the most powerful four-cylinder engine currently in series production globally. The handcrafted AMG 2.0-litre turbocharged unit unleashes a formidable 416 hp (421 PS) and 500 Nm of torque, enabling breathtaking acceleration and a truly dynamic driving experience.
This isn’t just about straight-line speed; the sophisticated AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system ensures exceptional grip and agility, allowing drivers to exploit the engine’s full potential through corners. Combined with a responsive AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G transmission, the A 45 S delivers sharp, engaging performance. Despite its potency, it maintains a degree of practicality expected from a hatchback, offering a respectable fuel efficiency of around 10.9 km/L (WLTP combined). It represents the peak of Mercedes compact performance engineering.
7. Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+
603 HP / 850 NM
The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ sits at the top as the flagship performance SUV from Mercedes-Benz, offering an unparalleled combination of space, luxury, and V8 power. While sharing its potent powertrain with the slightly smaller GLE 63 S, the GLS 63 provides seating for up to seven occupants in ultimate comfort. Under the bonnet lies the Handcrafted AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, augmented by a mild-hybrid system, producing a formidable 603 hp (612 PS) and 850 Nm of torque.
The focus area is its ability to blend family-hauling practicality with extreme performance, featuring AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension with active roll stabilization for dynamic handling, AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive for optimal traction, and an opulent interior expected of a Mercedes flagship. Fuel efficiency is rated at approximately 7.5 km/L (WLTP combined).
Suggested:
6. Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance Wagon
671 HP / 1,020 NM
The title of the most powerful wagon currently offered by Mercedes-Benz goes to the groundbreaking Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance Wagon. This model represents a paradigm shift, utilizing Formula 1-inspired hybrid technology adapted from the Mercedes-Benz C-Class platform. It combines the potent AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine (itself the world’s most powerful production four-cylinder) with an Electric Drive Unit (EDU) on the rear axle. The result is a staggering combined system output of 671 hp (680 PS) and a massive 1020 Nm of torque.
This sophisticated powertrain enables the practical wagon body style to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. The plug-in hybrid system allows for about 13 km of electric-only driving and achieves a weighted fuel consumption of approximately 14.5 km/L (plus electrical consumption). The runner-up in the performance wagon category is the new Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid Wagon, offering a still very potent 577 hp (up to 612 PS) from its inline-six hybrid system.
5. Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4MATIC+ SUV
677 HP / 1,000 NM
The Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4MATIC+ SUV translates the AMG performance ethos into the all-electric mid-size SUV segment. It features dual powerful, AMG-specific electric motors providing thrilling acceleration and standard fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. The combined output is 617 hp and 950 Nm of torque in standard form.
Equipping the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package elevates this further to a maximum of 677 hp (687 PS) and 1000 Nm, enabling rapid sprints. Despite its performance focus, it offers a practical WLTP range of 459-526 km. Standard AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension with adaptive damping ensures a balance between sporty handling and comfort. The runner-up in the standard Mercedes EQE SUV lineup providing significant power is the EQE 500 4MATIC, which offers a still potent 408 hp and 858 Nm from its dual motors.
4. Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ Sedan
751 HP / 1,020 NM
Representing the zenith of electric performance within the Mercedes lineup is the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+. This all-electric luxury sedan takes the innovative EQS platform and infuses it with signature AMG dynamism. Its dual AMG-specific electric motors provide potent acceleration, delivering a standard combined output of 649 hp and 950 Nm.
Opting for the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package unleashes the full potential: up to 751 hp (761 PS) and a massive 1020 Nm of torque in RACE START mode. This allows the EQS 53 to sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. Beyond the sheer speed, it offers a substantial WLTP range of 529-586 km on a full charge. The runner-up in the non-AMG EQS line is the impressive EQS 580 4MATIC, which offers 516 hp and 855 Nm of torque, balancing luxury with strong electric performance.
3. Mercedes-AMG GT/SL 63 S E Performance
805 HP / 1,420 NM
Representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-AMG two-door performance are the GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE Coupé and the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE Roadster. Both leverage the advanced E PERFORMANCE hybrid system, mating a Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine with a potent rear electric motor. This delivers a staggering, identical system output of 805 hp (816 PS) and 1420 Nm of torque for both models.
Acceleration is simply ferocious, achieving 0-100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds (Coupé) or 2.9 seconds (Roadster). The sophisticated hybrid technology also enables around 13 km of electric-only driving and contributes to a combined fuel efficiency of 11.7 km/L (plus electrical consumption). For V8 purists, the non-hybrid Mercedes-AMG GT 63 and SL 63 serve as impressive runners-up, offering approximately 577 hp. These flagships embody top-tier Mercedes-Benz engineering.
Suggested:
2. Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE 4-Door
831 HP / 1,400 NM
The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE is the absolute pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz performance sedans (technically a four-door coupé), showcasing technology derived directly from Formula 1. Its E PERFORMANCE hybrid system combines a handcrafted AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with a rear-axle electric motor and a high-performance battery. This results in a staggering combined output of 831 hp (843 PS) and over 1400 Nm of torque, enabling acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds.
It’s the most powerful series-production model from Affalterbach to date. Despite this immense power, the plug-in hybrid system allows for approximately 12 km of electric-only driving and contributes to a combined fuel consumption of around 12.6 km/L (plus electrical consumption). Powerful runner-up performance hybrids from Mercedes-AMG include the luxurious S 63 E PERFORMANCE (791 hp / 1430 Nm) and the revolutionary Mercedes-Benz C-Class-based C 63 S E PERFORMANCE, which uses a potent four-cylinder hybrid system (680 hp / 1020 Nm).
1. Mercedes-AMG ONE
1,063 HP
The Mercedes-AMG ONE represents the pinnacle of road-legal performance derived directly from Formula 1. This ground-breaking hypercar features a highly complex powertrain incorporating a 1.6-liter V6 hybrid engine with direct injection, electrically assisted single turbocharging, and four electric motors. The total system output exceeds a staggering 1,000 hp, enabling a top speed beyond 350 km/h.
Its active aerodynamics, lightweight carbon-fibre monocoque, and advanced suspension system contribute to its exceptional track performance. The interior blends functional F1-inspired design with luxurious materials. As an ultra-limited production model, the Mercedes-AMG ONE embodies the fusion of top-tier motorsport technology with road car usability, solidifying its status as a hypercar and a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess, a true flagship for the brand and its Mercedes-AMG division.
Let MotorQuips help you find your perfect car. Contact us today.