Gremlin9

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1...mule-spy-shots

Heavily disguised prototypes for the next-generation Mercedes-Benz C Class are already out in testing, so it’s not unreasonable to assume engineers are also working on the eventual high-performance AMG variant.

Today we have spy shots of what’s likely to be a test mule for the next C63 AMG, which should join the rest of the new C Class range in showrooms in late 2014 or early the following year.

Though it may look like the current model, a slightly longer wheelbase and wider track confirm that this is no ordinary C63 AMG.

Hidden beneath the sheet metal of this test mule will be the new model’s powertrain, which is expected to switch to AMG’s latest twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8 instead of the current model’s naturally-aspirated 6.2-liter V-8. The smaller engine, which develops up to 571 horsepower in some guises, is not only more powerful than the old 6.2-liter mill, but also produces significantly more low-end torque and is more fuel-efficient to boot.

In the new C63 AMG, expect output to at least match the 457 horsepower of the current model. While fans may be hoping for more power, performance should still be improved thanks to a lighter overall structure. Like the 2013 SL Class, the new C Class will almost certainly benefit from plenty of aluminum--and perhaps some composite--structures in its construction.

2015 Mercedes-Benz C Class spy shots

Of course, a Black Series variant is likely to be launched further down the track to quell the demands of the power-hungry. A coupe variant and possibly a new convertible version will eventually be launched as well.

Drive will be sent strictly to the rear wheels for all models either via a seven-speed automatic or dual-clutch transmission. An AMG DRIVE UNIT will allow owners to modify many of the vehicle’s settings, from the speed of gear shifts to the suspension stiffness.

As we are still in the very early stages of development many of the details may change as we approach the car’s debut in late 2014, so stay tuned for updates.

linjy2

Cant wait! I guess this will be my future vehicle when I retire the old C63.

CoolBDPhenom03

I thought this was already posted a few weeks ago and folks chimed in saying that 2015 is an awful long way off.

otakki

Hopefully it will be a DCT. Actually, the current N/A engine suits it well due to C-class' lower weight. Just remember the reasons why AMG chose the 6.2 over the 5.5TT for the SLS.

Pickles

G'Day....Being relatively new here, I'm not familiar with the reason, so could you enlighten me?
Thanks, Pickles.

Serge944

Because immediate-response N/A engines belong in supercars.

SonnyakaPig

I would love a performance package TT C63 with a DCT and wider wheels/tires out back. This could shape up to be a very special car and I'm really looking forward to seeing what the future holds.

VividRacing

Same thoughts here, I am very excited about this!

otakki

Here is a link to an informative thread:
https://mbworld.org/forums/w212-amg/...-2012-e63.html
I have posted some comparisons towards the bottom of page 1 on that thread. Hopefully, the info help answer your question.

EnigmaNZ

I would love a 4matic version. Roads are often wet and slipery here and the orange triangle too often makes its appearance. I would envisage 3 plus settings. Winter mode with 50/50 front/rear for maximum traction, Standard mode with 30/70 for everyday motoring with the extra safety of having some drive to the front wheels for those of us that aren't professional race drivers but want an AMG anyway, and Sport mode with 0/100 for those with the skills to enjoy the twisty bits on those sunny weekend getaways.

nasser

Just sold my 09 c63 p30 and waiting for this beast

Guilty

That would be freaking awesome. But no way this is happening

gthal

NO!!!!

Put 4Matic on an already porky and fat C63 and the car will lose ALL of its fun. The car is already too heavy IMO. AMG needs to focus on weight REDUCTION to keep this car fun and feeling like a sports car. The next M3 will be lighter than the current one (for a good reason) and AMG would be really putting the C63 behind the competition if the weight increased. 4Matic can only cause the car to weigh more.

MB... please leave the C63 a RWD only car and please shave 300lbs of weight off. THAT would be a fun car. All just IMO

Sincity

TT huh? That's interesting. So it's a tune away again to match the more expensive models? I thought AMG/Benz wouldn't go down that road again.

w204nyc

the M3 will also have around 480hp. I read an article a while back saying that the torque on the 5.5TT engines would need a much better chassis on the c63 which would cause a big increase in the price of the car.

Viper98912

I'm honestly curious to know where AMG is going to place the new 5.5 NA that's currently in the SLK. With a few additional small cars coming to the lineup, including the CLC/CLA and the GLK, rumor is the CLA will have the new turbo 4 cyl due to the platform (but honestly I hope not, because an AMG in the US without a charged 6 or 8 cylinder just doesn't sound right) and the GLK they can shoehorn the 5.5 like they did the C55. I wonder if for the rest of the smaller AMG's, including the C sedan and C coupe, they'll use the 5.5NA. Of course, the problem now is that they're going to a smaller, less powerful engine than the current C, which would be a step backwards. With the automotive industry going to smaller engines now, it could be a possibility but a blow to the fans and owners. But I just don't see all the time money and development to use the engine in one or two cars. Unless they plan on debadging it and using it in the regular 550's, they have to have a plan for this engine, somewhere.

That said, putting the 5.5TT in all of the larger vehicles, and then detuning it for the smaller vehicles, just doesn't make sense again (like they had to do for the C class). Then again, smaller turbos is the easiest way to do it (aside from ECU).

I really do want to see the 5.5NA in the CLA though with AWD....

callmiro

He is just guessing what the motor is....

"Hidden beneath the sheet metal of this test mule will be the new model’s powertrain, which is expected to switch to AMG’s latest twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8"

I have a feeling they are saving the 5.5TT for the upper models and will bring in something else for the C (ie tuned up 4.6TT in the CLS550)

Nobody on the street knows for certain right now

PS....this article was posted 2 weeks ago

CoolBDPhenom03

Well, if the M3 is becoming a sharper tool, then the C63 had better stay on top of the curve to remain a competitor. HP is fine up until you see a noticeable gap between the power/weight ratio. I agree that our 3700lb behemoths are a little on the chubby side.


I KNEW I wasn't crazy.

Pickles

Nobody knows....& I don't really care.
Well, I do...a little bit.......I reckon the "new" C63 won't be out for a couple of years, by which time ours will be 3 years old.....so, I'd expect the "new" C63 to be better, but if it was appreciably faster & more powerful, then I'd have to say, that I'd probably be a bit disappointed.
Cheers, Pickles.

SLS Qatar

It's gunna be fast with the 5.5TT engine on it

Tune and exhaust modification will make it a racing champ on the street

hhughes1

We should have a sticky thread devoted to speculation about the next generation specifics. Once confirmed, it would be fun to go back and read what we were thinking a year or two prior.

propain

I couldnt agree more...

Well, except I would shed about 400lb's and make it AWD.

SLS Qatar

Excellent Idea. I agree with you

bmoney12

I'd be happy with 200lbs, a dual clutch, 500hp and AWD!

ZephyrAMG

+1 true indeed...if I am bored I go back and get a chuckle at early C63 posts and speculation before the car was released in 2007