Caught undergoing cold weather testing, this particular E63 prototype is
modestly disguised and features a revised front fascia with restyled
headlights. While not present on these testers, the production model should
also get the new Panamericana grille, similar to the updated C63 AMG models.
The headlights mimic those on the GLE and feature boomerang-shaped LED daytime
running lights.
Bigger changes occur out back as the
high-performance model appears to have an updated bumper and a more pronounced
diffuser. We can also expect new taillights, but the camouflage does a pretty
good job of hiding their design.
Spy photographers couldn’t get close enough to snap
interior photos, but previous pictures of the standard E-Class have shown the
model will have a new steering wheel and an updated center stack. The latter
will feature a new touchpad controller which eschews the familiar rotary knob
for the infotainment system.
Engine options will likely carryover, so we can
expect a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with two outputs. The standard model
currently produces 563 hp and 750 Nm of torque.
It is connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance
4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. This setup enables the sedan to rocket from 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of up
to 300 km/h with AMG Driver’s package.
The Mercedes-AMG E 63 S 4MATIC+ has an upgraded V8
which develops 603 hp and 850 Nm of torque. The
extra power cuts the 0-100 km/h time to 3.4 seconds, but the top
speed remains unchanged. The facelifted Mercedes E-Class is expected to be unveiled later this
year, so expect the E63 to debut sometime after the standard model is
introduced.
