Mercedes-Benz has just unleashed four new and revised (some slightly more power-hungry) AMG models in SA, but which is the most outrageous?
C 63 AMG Sedan, Estate and now Coupé models join the E 63 AMG Coupé in the latest raft of changes, extending from cosmetic and equipment updates, including the introduction of AMG’s Speedshift MCT seven speed sports transmission as standard, all the way to power upgrades.
All models benefit from the MCT transmission, with a “controlled efficiency” mode, is lifted from the SL 63 AMG. Along with a new power steering pump, it helps to reduce the combined fuel consumption by about ten percent to 12 litres/100km (12.2 litres for the Estate), Merc says.
Forgoing a torque converter, the transmission uses a wet clutch that, it says, delivers more efficient, agile and responsive delivery. The MCT comes with four driving modes along with double-declutching and launch control functions that can be employed for a variety of road (or track) conditions. Gear changes in the S+ and M modes are rapid, being performed in about 100 milliseconds, according to Merc.
THREE-STAGE ESP
CHROME TIPPED: The rear view afforded by the C 63 AMG sedan with its menacing tail pipes, rear diffuser and discreet boot spoiler.
In the C-Class AMG versions, Stuttgart’s signature 6208-cm3 V8 engine is unchanged in this iteration, churning out 336kW – that can be turned up to 358kW by ticking the AMG Performance pack from the options list - and 600Nm. It sprints from 0 – 100km/h in 4.4 seconds (sedan or Coupé) or 4.5 seconds (Estate) and the top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h.
Stopping is the work of a high-performance AMG brake system using internally ventilated and perforated brake discs on all wheels.
As for its appearance, the C 63 AMG’s look takes on some of the changes seen with the recent C-Class update although they do take a slightly more aggressive turn with these high-performance models.
A new grille with an oversized three-pointed star, new clear-lens headlamps, a new AMG front apron with glossy black accents, special AMG daytime running lights and a new bonnet with powerdomes now made of aluminium.
THREE Cs
FAMILIAR, BUT SPECIAL: The standard C-Class cabin gets a serious AMG boost.
At the rear, the C 63 also gains a new rear apron with black diffuser inserts from which its twin chromed tailpipes peek.
New five twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels are painted in high-sheen titanium grey shod with wide, grippy 235/40 R 18 and 255/35 R 18 tyres at the front and rear, respectively.
The updated C 63 rides on a revised sports suspension with a special front axle, reinforced rear axle and a wider track, while driving dynamics are further honed by new spring and damper rates as well as the further reduction of road roar and vibration through increased NVH properties.
Inside the cabin, the C63 adds a new dashboard with an integrated screen, a 3D TFT display and a new flat-bottomed, three-spoke AMG steering wheel (lifted from the CLS 63 AMG) trimmed in nappa leather with metal trim and aluminium shift paddles.
The Coupé’s AMG sports seats have an Easy Entry system to allow passengers seated in the rear to easier access these seats. The rear backrests also fold forward to create more space for luggage.
Other items borrowed from big brothers S-Class and CLS include ten driving assistance systems new to the C 63 such as active blind spot assist, adaptive highbeam assist, active lane keeping assist and Parktronic with parking guidance. The Comand telematics system has been overhauled, too, with larger displays, greater Bluetooth integration, a more comprehensive navigation system and internet access .
As with all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, the C 63 AMG comes standard with MobiloDrive 120, a six-year or 120 000 km maintenance plan and a full vehicle warranty for two years.
PRICES:
C 63 AMG Sedan: R862 300
C 63 AMG Estate: R871 700
AMG Performance package: R71 800
C 63 AMG Coupé: R923 700
AMG Performance package: R71 800
AMG Driver’s package: R25 600
The revised E 63 AMG and C 63 AMG were launched simultaneously in South Africa. Click here to read about the E-Class AMG models.