The Best Gets Better – The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG – Car Showroom’s favourite high-performance mid-sizer – debuted it latest lineup at the Detroit Auto Show.
Called the 2014 Model Year, the updated E63 lineup (sedan and wagon) arrive in Australia mid-year.
Styling changes mirror the updated E-Class, but of course include the AMG high performance kit. At the front there’s single-lens headlights (but with two lights and DRLs inside) and larger cool air intakes, the rear sees new lights and naturally the side view is punctuated by wheel-arch flares and the sill extensions we know from the current E63 AMG.
But the biggest news is the debut of Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG models with Benz’ 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. With torque vectoring and a rear-biased 33:67 torque-split the high-performance AWD system cuts the E63 AMG sedan’s zero to 100km/h time to 3.6 seconds.
The bad news for buyers in markets like Australia and Britain however – the E63 AM 4Matic is only for left-hand-drive production.
However that’s just a minor setback when you consider upgrades for the twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 boost output to 410kW/720Nm (412kW/680Nm for the rival BMW M5). That means zero to 100km/h for the updated Mercedes-Benz E63 in 4.2 seconds (4.5 seconds for the M5).
AMG fans should note the halo model, previously called the ‘Performance Package’ is now called the ‘S-model’ and it too gains extra grunt – 430kW/800Nm. Other S-model extras include a unique front suspension, locking rear differential, matt-finish 19-inch alloy wheels, exterior trim in gloss black and silver, brake calipers in red (larger ceramic brakes on the options list), the superb alcantara sports steering wheel, grey-coloured interior and matching grey-coloured seat belts.
Drive is via the seven-speed AMG Speedshift automatic and the E63 AMG sits on the adaptive ride control suspension we know from the current model.
Inside is an updated version of the usual AMG sporty opulence – sports seats in black leather, stainless steel pedals, LED backlighting and metal-look trim highlights get things started. A 1200W Bang & Olufsen audio system and trims in piano black and carbon fibre are on the options list.
Mercedes-Benz Australia will announce local details and pricing closer to launch.
