Mercedes S-Class AMG variants exposed

Mercedes-Benz rolled out its subtly updated S-Class at the New York Auto Show (more here) and the AMG-tweaked variants were due to be revealed at the upcoming Shanghai motor show -- but they've been prematurely exposed via these leaked images.

Also pictured is the new twin-turbo V12-powered S65AMG, the range-topping S-Class model that will sit alongside the V8-propelled S63, and which will lay claim to being one of the fastest ultra-luxo four-doors on the planet.

Although yet to be confirmed, the S65's blown 6.0-litre V12 is expected to thump out 455kW and an absurd 1000Nm, while the slightly saner S63's 6.2-litre V8 will put out 381kW and 630Nm.

The S65 will retain a five-speed auto (as the 7G-Tronic seven-speeder isn't strong enough to handle its mountainous torque output), but the S63 carries over the latter transmission.

As is the case now, both models will come with 250km/h speed limiters, but in some markets this can reportedly be raised to 300km/h as an optional extra.

The current AMG S-Class models had been criticised by some for being too understated, but the updated models make a greater visual impact, thanks to new LED daytime running light strips, a more aggressive front bumper/spoiler assembly and bespoke wheels.

In addition, the S65 (pictured here) has a grille with three split chrome bars, while its lesser S63 sibling has a four-bar grille.

Naturally, familiar distinguishing ingredients such as quad tailpipes and AMG badging on the bootlid are carried over.

Meanwhile, UK's respected Autocar magazine reports that Merc's new E-Class Coupe line-up will not feature a spiritual successor to the rapid CLK63 AMG.

"We had a good look where it would fit into the line-up and eventually came to the conclusion it would be too close to the CLS63 AMG, both in positioning and price," a Mercedes insider told Autocar at the New York motor show.

As previously reported by the Carsales Network, the new coupe is built from a combination of E-Class and C-Class components (more here), and will be positioned as a more spacious and luxurious offering than the outgoing CLK.

This would explain the Benz insider's concerns that an AMG-fettled E-Class Coupe might tread on the CLS63's toes.