2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 & E63 S
Mercedes’ AMG division has introduced the new
generation E63 and E63 S models, with the latter being the most powerful and
fastest E-Class of all time.
The duo of 2018 E63 sedans have dropped the
outgoing models’ 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 for AMG’s smaller displacement,
but more potent 4.0-liter twin-turbo’d V8, and now get standard 4MATIC
four-wheel drive across the range.
In the base E63, the eight-cylinder lump churns out
563 hp and 750 Nm for a 0-100 km/h in 3.5
sec, while in the ‘S’ model, it produces 604 hp and 850 Nm allowing it to reach 100 km/h in 3.3 sec. Both models have a
restricted top speed of 250 km/h, though the available AMG Driver’s
package allows it to be extended to a limited 300 km/h.
If for any reason you want to show your frugal side
by cutting down on fuel consumption, the new V8 can be turned into a four-pot
via the cylinder deactivation system that’s available in the
"Comfort" transmission program the between 1,000 and 3,250 rpm.
A standard nine-speed Speedshift MCT (Multi Clutch
Technology) automatic transmission with steering wheel shift paddles handles
the power deliver to all four wheels. While Mercedes doesn’t offer the option
of a rear-wheel drive only model anymore, the E63 S 4MATIC does come with a
special ‘Drift Mode’ feature that delivers power exclusively to the rear wheels
as standard.
The mode is activated in the "Race" drive program using
the shift paddles, provided that ESP is deactivated and the transmission is in
manual mode and it remains engaged until the driver deactivates it again.
AMG has made all sorts of upgrades to
the E63’s chassis, which include a specially tuned Air Body Control system, new
suspension parts on both ends, a mechanical rear differential lock, three-stage
ESP, and an electromechanical speed-sensitive sports steering. Stopping power
comes courtesy of a high-performance braking system with 360mm discs with six
pot calipers up front and 360 mm discs with single pot calipers at the back for
the E63, and larger 390 mm front discs at the front for the ‘S’. Optionally,
Mercedes offers ceramic carbon discs measuring 402 mm up front and 360 mm at the
rear.
