It has finally happened – an AMG C63 model with a 2-litre engine but more power than ever.
With a new W206 C-Class model comes the AMG versions. We already know the Mercedes-AMG C43 4MATIC comes with a 2.0L with a 48V system and a mild hybrid powertrain with 402hp and 500Nm of torque. But now we have the official word about the new C63 model – it’s a 2L plug-in hybrid!
The all-new top-performance W206 will be called the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance. Its powertrain consists of a 2.0L turbocharged engine, a 2-speed electric motor on the rear axle and an all-wheel drive 4MATIC system for the first time on the C63 model. The car also gets an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential. While the outgoing C63 features a twin turbocharged V8 with up to 500hp and 700Nm of torque, this new model has 680hp and 1020Nm of torque! There’s also a Drift Mode despite the 4MATIC system, and active rear axle steering as standard.
The new C 63 S E Performance goes from 0-100km/h in just 3.4 seconds and tops out at 280km/h with the optional AMG Driver’s Package.
Mercedes-AMG says it is taking its Formula 1 technology into the new AMG-exclusive 400V powertrain and battery set up. The battery in the new C63 S E Performance is designed for fast discharge and high power draw with innovative direct cooling for the cells. It is mounted above the rear axle in a compact design. Don’t expect too much in the way of pure electric driving on this hybrid though – Mercedes only anticipates an electric range of 13km.
There will be both a sedan and a wagon version of the C63 S E Performance. Compared to the standard W206 C-Class, these AMG models are 83mm longer with a considerably wider track and even a 10mm longer wheelbase. This lends a more powerful and muscular look to the new C63 model. Another distinguishing feature is the slim air outlet in the centre of the bonnet that transitions into two powerdomes.
There’s also a black AMG emblem instead of the Mercedes star with laurel wreath on the bonnet. This new AMG 63 model also gets a Panamericana-style radiator grille, an AMG front apron as well as other inlets and aero parts. Two of the air panels are electronically controlled. The AMG C63 S E Performance also comes with matching side skirts, a rear apron, a diffuser, two dual tailpipe trims and a little spoiler.
Rounding off the new design are a set of either 19″ or 20″ wheels in a staggered setup. Numerous paint options and customisable options are available including the AMG Exterior Carbon Fibre or Night packages, as well as the AMG Aerodynamics Package.
Inside, the C 63 S gets AMG sport seats in special upholstery and a distinctive stitching pattern. The front head restraints get AMG emblems embossed. An optional AMG Performance seat is optional with weight-saving side bolsters. Nappa leather upholstery can be optioned with an optional contrast colour.
The AMG Performance steering wheel comes standard with a twin-spoke design. For the first time, regeneration levels of the hybrid system can be selected via the steering-mounted buttons.
AMG has also formulated a new Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System sound signature. This is a low-frequency, speed modulated AMG sound emitted via a loudspeaker at the front and rear. It can be observed from inside the car as well.
What do you think of the new Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance? Are the new performance numbers a reasonable trade off for the lack of a V8 and the presence of an electrified system? Let us know.
