Happenings

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Sedan/Estate

BY Joel Tam

AMG's best-selling model gets a mid-life makeover with sharper looks, new sports transmission and a host of safety features to keep the over-enthusiastic driver in check.

The successful Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG is now more attractive than ever. The introduction of a new AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission not only reduces fuel consumption, but makes the unchanged AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with 457 bhp even more exploitable.

Agility, grip and ride comfort have been enhanced as a result of numerous measures to optimise the AMG sports suspension. New assistance systems like Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Speed Limit Assist all work to increase both safety and comfort.

Even more dynamic performance is available with the optional AMG Performance package. With an upgrade to 487 hp, a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.4 seconds (Estate: 4.5 s) is a cinch. This is achieved thanks to a technology transfer from the SLS AMG: the forged pistons, connecting rods and the lightweight crankshaft all come from the gullwing model's engine.

Inside, a quick glance will reveal the completely new dashboard design with an integrated screen, it impresses with its particularly attractive appearance and the superior quality of the details. The new three-spoke AMG performance steering wheel is trimmed in nappa leather and features a metallic trim element with flattened top and bottom sections as well as grip areas which are specially shaped and trimmed in perforated leather for perfect steering control. Aluminium shift paddles allow manual gear selection.