Mercedes-Benz Debuts New AMG C63 Models
New options, upgraded variants, and an updated style for the powerhouse of the C-Class.
Powerful V8 engines, thrilling driving dynamics, and distinctive, motorsport-inspired equipment have turned the top-of-the-range models of the C-Class from Mercedes-AMG into best-sellers. The C63 perfectly embodies the core of the performance and sports car brand and now offers, in the guise of the Sedan, Coupe, and Cabriolet even better dynamics and a more modern interior with extended individualization options. The new C63 made its debut at the New York International Auto Show.
“The AMG C-Class is our best-selling model series and therefore a key cornerstone of our company’s success of recent years. We have therefore increasingly expanded our C-Class offer: customers can now choose between twelve models from the C-Class family globally. As part of the latest facelift, we have upgraded all variants of the model series even more substantially,” says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “This relates to the 43-series models and especially, of course, to the AMG C63. The perfected driving dynamics and expressive design underscore the powerful, muscular character of the rear-wheel drive icon.”
The AMG Speedshift 9-speed transmission with wet start-off clutch makes for an even more agile gearshift response. The Handcrafted AMG 4.0- liter V8 biturbo engine is available in two output variants rated at 469 hp or 503 hp for all three body styles, and delivers a performance on a par with that of a sports car. Greater driving pleasure is guaranteed also by the redefined drive programs, which allow further differentiation of the road performance of the eight-cylinder engine. Visually, the looks of the new C63 are even more visually appealing
Exterior Design
The exterior of the new C63 underscores the brand identity of the performance models with the AMG-specific radiator trim with vertical louvers in high-gloss chrome. With a redesigned transverse fin in the outer air inlets, the front bumper in A-wing design gives an even stronger emphasis to the width of the vehicle.
When viewed from the side, eye-catching features include the sporty side skirts plus aerodynamically optimized AMG light-alloy wheels. The developers aimed for the optimal combination of aerodynamics, weight and brake cooling, for maximum performance and optimum efficiency.
The rear view, too, with two remodeled twin tailpipe trim elements in high-gloss chrome, has a muscular look, which is reinforced by the new, more expressive diffuser. The S-versions are additionally provided with a diffuser board. The lateral air curtain look of the rear bumper makes for improved air flow at the rear end, as does the spoiler lip on the trunk lid, which is painted in the vehicle color.
Interior Design
The interior reinforces the dynamic caliber of the new C63 with numerous details. The standard specification includes the classic-sporty equipment with black seat covers combined with trim in Natural Grain Black Ash Wood and Brushed Aluminum.
The optional AMG Performance seats provide optimum lateral support when adopting a dynamic driving style. The Performance seats additionally lend the interior a sporty, distinctive character with their integral head restraints. The seats can not only be heated, but now also climatized in three levels in conjunction with leather upholstery.
Display Concept and Operating System
Whether with touchpad and Controller, Touch Control Buttons, on the steering wheel or via voice entry, the operating system of the C63 is just as versatile as it is flexible. All options are aimed at enabling the control tasks to be carried out as conveniently, quickly and appropriately to the situation as possible.
Just as flexible is the display of the optional fully digital instrument cluster in front of the driver with 12.3-inch screen diagonal, which brings the vehicle functions directly to life with the three AMG-specific display styles of “Classic,” “Progressive” or “Sport.”
Via the specific AMG menu, the driver is able to call up a host of additional information to make the driving experience even sportier including warm-up, setup, G-Force, Race Timer, and engine data.
AMG Steering Wheel
The new AMG steering wheel in Nappa leather comes as standard equipment. It has a flattened bottom section and is perforated in the grip area. The galvanized steering wheel gearshift paddles allow an even sportier driving style with manual gear shifting. The built-in Touch Control Buttons are a new feature that can be used to control the functions of the instrument cluster and the multimedia system.
9-Speed Transmission
The 9-speed transmission has been tuned specifically for a dynamic driving experience. The multiple downshift function allows more spontaneous bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in “Sport” and “Sport+” drive programs makes for an even more emotional driving experience. “Manual” mode can be selected using a separate button in the center console.
Drive Programs
Depending on the engine, up to six drive programs are available: “Slippery,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” “RACE” and “Individual.” These levels are selectable via the gearshift paddle in the center console and stored with the new drive program attribute AMG Dynamics, which can be adjusted to match the C63’s handling characteristics to different demands and driving conditions in a much more differentiated way. Behind the umbrella term AMG Dynamics are the agility functions “Basic,” “Advanced,” “Pro” and “Master,” which are automatically selected by the respective drive program.
AMG Track Pace
As the virtual race engineer for recording data when driving on closed-off race tracks, AMG Track Pace provides a significantly extended and even more precise scope of functions. On the C63 S, AMG Track Pace is a standard (C63: optional) part of the optional COMAND infotainment system. If this function is enabled, while driving on a race track, over 80 vehicle-specific sets of data (e.g. speed, acceleration) are recorded ten times per second. On top of this there are displays of lap and sector times and also the respective difference for a reference time.
AMG Ride Control
With its adjustable, electronically controlled damping system, the AMG Ride Control steel suspension of the C63 provides both sporty driving dynamics and brand-typical comfort on long journeys. Newly developed components result in very high camber stability when cornering at speed. The axial brake connection on the front axle supports the agile and precise handling.
V8 Biturbo Engine
All three body styles are available as basic model and S-model: the proven Handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine in this case puts out 469 hp or 503 hp, while the maximum torque is 479 or 516 lb-ft. Depending on body style, the C63 S accelerates from zero to 60 mph in as quickly as 3.8 seconds in the C63 S Coupe. The Handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine is already used in numerous AMG Performance vehicles. A characteristic feature is that the two turbochargers are positioned not on the outside of the cylinder banks, but inside the cylinder “V.” The main advantages of this design are the compact engine construction and optimal response.
The typical V8 engine sound is another key element of the AMG driving experience. The C63 comes as standard with an AMG sport exhaust system with a variable flap. The engine sound varies accordingly between discreet/suitable for long-distance driving, and robust/emotively appealing. The AMG Performance Exhaust System with three selectable exhaust flaps is optionally available for both engine variants. This gives the driver an even wider sound range.
Dynamic Engine Mounts
The C63 S comes with dynamic engine mounts. These resolve the conflicting aims of comfort and dynamic performance by reducing vibrations in the engine/transmission unit. These dynamic mounts are instantly and variably able to adapt their rigidity to the driving conditions and style of driving.
All AMG C63 variants will go on sale by early 2019.