There is a new Mercedes-AMG C63 S in town, and apart from having a new suffix (E-Performance), it also comes with a new engine under its hood. The previous model's 4.0-liter V8 bows out and in comes a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder unit. The latest performance version of the C-Class will now retail in the United States only in a sedan form and comes as standard with a hybrid powertrain derived from the German brand's Formula 1 technologies. Furthermore, for the first time, we also see the introduction of the 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system in the C63 as it gets a new cabin layout similar to its more expensive sibling, the S-Class. The 2024 Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance goes on sale sometime next year in the US. Here is everything you need to know about it.
The New C63 S Is a Hybrid Built For Performance
According to Mercedes, the new 2.0-liter engine in the 2024 AMG C63 S is the most potent four-cylinder motor in the world. On its own, this turbocharged engine is capable of producing 469 horsepower. However, the 201 horsepower electric motor mounted on the rear axle takes the total system output of this performance sedan up to 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque. These figures are a substantial step-up from the previous generation's twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, which churns out 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. In addition, the new C63 can sprint from 0-60 MPH in just 3.3 seconds.
To reduce the turbo lag, Mercedes has fitted an electronically controlled turbocharger to the 2.0-liter engine. This technology comes from the brand's Formula 1 racing division. What's also interesting is that the gasoline engine and the electric motor serve their power individually. The former, through the 9-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels via the 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, and the latter through a 2-speed gearbox, exclusively to the rear wheels with the help of a limited-split differential.
The 2024 AMG C63 also has adaptive suspension that offers three modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. In addition, rear-wheel steering can turn up to 2.5 degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels, and high-performance composite brakes allow for better control under heavy braking.
The new C63 S comes with eight driving modes, including an all-electric one allowing up to 8 miles of combustion engine-free driving. EPA is yet to test this performance sedan for fuel economy. However, due to the introduction of the hybrid powertrain, we expect these figures to improve compared to the outgoing model, which was rated to deliver 17 MPG in the city, and 26 MPG on the highway, with a combined figure of 21 MPG.
The 2024 AMG C63 S E Performance Is Designed For Speed
With this new generation comes a redesign for the exterior of the C63. The overall design comes from the standard C-Class, but this performance sedan has a wider front track and is 3.3-inches longer. There is also a 0.4-inch increase in its wheelbase. In addition, this sedan comes with electronically controlled panels behind the radiator grille to aid aerodynamic efficiency. Adding to this is a functional diffuser at the rear and a boot lid-mounted spoiler. Those looking for better performance can opt for an aerodynamic package that will add an aggressive front spoiler and a larger boot lid spoiler on the new C63.
As standard, it comes with a hood scoop that allows hot air to escape from the engine bay, side skirts, and 19-inch AMG alloy wheels. Larger 20-inch rims that feature a forged design are also available as an optional upgrade.
The New C63 S Does Not Miss Out On Luxury And Comfort
The cabin layout of the 2024 C63 S is identical to the standard C-Class. It also gets the same connectivity options. For instance, it comes with the S-Class-inspired 12.3-inch vertical touchscreen infotainment system equipped with the latest version of Mercedes' MBUX multimedia system. There is also the 11.9-inch digital instrument display and the steering wheel from the standard C-Class that comes with touch-sensitive controls. In addition, connectivity options such as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and voice commands are likely to be available as standard features.
There are a few AMG exclusive bits on the new C63 S too. The standard AMG sports seats have special upholstery and a unique stitching pattern. However, Mercedes say that there are plenty of customization options on offer. For instance, one can choose to opt for AMG performance seats. These are made from lightweight materials and come with additional side bolstering. The MBUX system also comes with exclusive features for this performance sedan. Hybrid-specific displays are available on the infotainment screen, the instrument cluster, and the optional heads-up display.
Like the C-Class, the 2024 C63 S will also come standard with various driver assistance and safety features such as autonomous emergency braking. However, more advanced systems, such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, are likely to remain as part of an optional package.
Source: Mercedes-Benz