Mercedes-AMG is once again pushing the boundaries of automotive excellence, transforming the quintessential executive sedan into an unparalleled powerhouse with the next generation Benz E63. This isn’t just an evolution; it’s a revolution, establishing new standards in the high-performance sedan segment through groundbreaking technologies and an intelligent drive strategy that elevates vehicle dynamics to unprecedented levels. Prepare to experience superior acceleration and breathtaking power, courtesy of a handcrafted 4.0L V8 biturbo engine producing a staggering 603 hp – the most potent engine ever to grace a Benz E-Class. Efficiency hasn’t been sacrificed for power; a standard cylinder deactivation system ensures remarkable fuel economy. With the Benz E63 S model achieving 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds, it firmly claims its place at the pinnacle of its class.
This remarkable performance is further enhanced by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT (Multi Clutch Technology) nine-speed sport transmission, now featuring a wet start-off clutch for the first time, resulting in lightning-fast response times. Another standout innovation is the completely redesigned AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. This system intelligently blends the advantages of different drive configurations, offering fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles. This ensures optimal traction in all conditions, pushing the limits of performance regardless of the road beneath. The striking exterior design, characterized by a new radiator grille and a coupe-inspired inset hood, visually reinforces the performance prowess of the Benz E63. This next generation model delivers an entirely new dimension of sportiness without compromising the comfort expected of a luxury sedan.
The latest iteration of the Benz E63 marks a significant leap forward for Mercedes-AMG, introducing a suite of innovations that redefine the very essence of a performance sedan. It’s a fusion of cutting-edge powertrain engineering and exhilarating performance, seamlessly integrated with a distinctive design, exclusive features, and the latest in infotainment technology for a fully connected and immersive multimedia experience.
Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, aptly summarizes the advancements: “The new E63 S represents the most substantial progress we’ve ever achieved from one generation to the next. Vehicle dynamics were paramount in our development. From the outset, we chose a fully variable all-wheel drive system, which, coupled with the extraordinary capabilities of the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, unequivocally reaffirms our brand’s ‘Driving Performance’ ethos.”
Benz E63 Technical Data Overview:
| Mercedes-AMG E63 S | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V8 biturbo |
| Displacement | 3,982 cc |
| Output | 603 hp at 5,750 – 6,500 rpm |
| Peak torque | 627 lb-ft at 2,500–4,500 rpm |
| Drive system | AMG Performance 4MATIC+ permanent all-wheel drive with variable torque distribution and drift mode |
| Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed sport transmission |
| Acceleration 0–60 mph (sec) | 3.3 |
| Top speed | 186 mph (electronically limited) |
Exterior Design: A Unique and Aggressive Front End
Every facet of the Benz E63’s exterior and interior is meticulously crafted to deliver an immersive AMG Driving Performance experience. The expressive exterior design is a symphony of taut lines and muscular contours, conveying raw power and refined athleticism. The front end, redesigned from the A-pillar forward, showcases Mercedes-AMG’s dedication to distinctive styling. For the first time in an AMG sedan, the hood is inset between the fenders and bumper, mirroring the sleek aesthetics of a coupe and embodying a fresh, more dynamic approach to exterior design. The wheel arches, now more assertive and widened by 0.67 inches, accommodate a wider track and larger wheels on the front axle, further enhancing its powerful stance.
Alt text: Aggressive front grille and headlight design of the Mercedes-Benz E63 S AMG performance sedan.
The new radiator grille, featuring twin louvers in silver chrome, vertical black struts, and prominent “AMG” lettering, further emphasizes the Benz E63’s unique identity. A wide front bumper, inspired by the aerodynamic form of a jet wing, incorporates black flics and a substantial front splitter, powerfully projecting the model’s inherent strength. This design also highlights the sophisticated cooling technology, a hallmark of motorsports engineering and a visual cue to the potent engine within. The twin louvers integrated into the outer cooling-air intakes play a crucial role in this system, directing airflow precisely to the wheel arch coolers. Overall, the front section radiates exceptional power, instantly communicating the exhilarating forward thrust that defines this new performance sedan.
Side Profile and Muscular Rear: Elongated Elegance and Power
The side view of the Benz E63 S Sedan reinforces its dynamic character with a series of meticulously coordinated elements. A standout detail is the arrow-shaped wing signet in silver chrome, proudly displaying three-dimensional “V8 BITURBO 4MATIC+” lettering – a striking visual declaration of the advanced drive system beneath. The side sill panels visually lower the sedan’s stance, accentuating its elongated and streamlined silhouette. Inserts finished in silver chrome further distinguish the high-performance E63 S from the base Benz E63 model.
As standard, the Benz E63 S is equipped with tires sized 265/35 ZR 20 at the front and 295/30 ZR 20 at the rear, mounted on 9.5 J x 20 (front) and 10 J x 20 (rear) 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels. These wheels are finished in matte titanium grey with a high-sheen surface, adding to the car’s sophisticated yet sporty appeal. For those seeking an even more distinctive look, a new 20-inch cross-spoke forged wheel design is available as an option, giving the impression of a motorsport-inspired central locking mechanism.
Alt text: Sleek side profile and sporty wheel design of the Mercedes-Benz E63 S AMG.
The muscular rear end completes the powerful aesthetic, featuring a clearly defined spoiler lip in body color on the trunk lid, a rear bumper with a diffuser-look insert, and bright chrome-plated twin tailpipe trim elements integrated with the selectable sport exhaust system. The E63 S model further distinguishes itself with a trim strip in silver chrome on the rear bumper, adding a touch of premium refinement to its aggressive stance.
Aerodynamic Performance: Optimized Lift Balance
The design and aerodynamic development of the Benz E63 were a collaborative effort between designers and aerodynamics experts. Their expertise not only shaped the striking AMG bodystyling but also optimized the car’s lift balance. This results in both agile handling on winding roads and exceptional driving stability at high speeds on highways. The development team also prioritized minimizing wind noise, reducing aerodynamic drag for improved fuel efficiency, and ensuring thermal robustness across all vehicle systems. The rear spoiler, carefully integrated into the sedan’s airflow, effectively reduces lift on the rear axle, contributing to enhanced stability and control.
Engine Innovation: 4.0L V8 Biturbo with Twin-Scroll Turbochargers
At the heart of the Benz E63 S lies the potent AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine, taking performance to new heights with an output of 603 hp and a massive 627 lb-ft of torque, available across a broad rev range from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. This immense power translates into breathtaking acceleration, propelling the sedan from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, with its relentless surge only limited by the electronically governed top speed of 186 mph.
This advanced AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine utilizes proven twin-turbocharging technology. However, in a unique “hot inner V” configuration, the two turbochargers are not positioned conventionally on the outside of the cylinder banks but nestled within the V-shape of the cylinders. This innovative layout results in a more compact engine design, enables immediate turbocharger response thanks to shorter airflow paths, and reduces exhaust gas emissions by optimizing airflow to the close-coupled catalytic converters.
For the first time, the Benz E63 employs two twin-scroll turbochargers, further boosting performance and enhancing responsiveness. The turbocharger housing is divided into two parallel flow passages, working in conjunction with two separate exhaust ducts in the exhaust manifold to allow for independent control of exhaust gases on the turbine wheel. Exhaust gas from cylinders one and four of a cylinder bank is channeled into one duct, while gas from cylinders two and three is directed to the other. This sophisticated system prevents interference between individual cylinders within the exhaust gas cycle, reducing exhaust gas back pressure and improving gas exchange. The result is increased power output due to improved cylinder charging, enhanced torque at lower engine speeds, and exceptionally quick throttle response.
Further engine enhancements include new pistons, an optimized air intake and charge air cooling system, and comprehensive software advancements. The engine retains features such as spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, an all-aluminum crankcase, four-valve-per-cylinder design with camshaft adjustment, air-water charge air cooling, alternator management, ECO start/stop function, and gliding mode. In summary, this eight-cylinder engine delivers exhilarating power and rapid acceleration across the entire rev range, combined with impressive efficiency for reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
AMG Cylinder Management: Efficiency without Compromise
For optimal fuel efficiency, Mercedes-AMG has equipped the V8 engine in the Benz E63 with AMG Cylinder Management, a cylinder deactivation system. This technology, previously proven in models like the SLK55, achieves impressively low fuel consumption and emissions and is now applied for the first time to a turbocharged engine from the high-performance AMG brand. In partial-load operation, cylinders two, three, five, and eight are deactivated, significantly reducing fuel consumption.
When the driver selects the “Comfort” transmission drive program, cylinder deactivation becomes active across a wide engine speed range, from 1,000 to 3,250 rpm. The AMG main menu in the instrument cluster provides real-time information, indicating when cylinder deactivation is engaged and whether the engine is operating in partial or full-load mode. The transition between four and eight-cylinder operation is seamless and imperceptible, ensuring no compromise in passenger comfort.
Intelligent Valve Control: Seamless Cylinder Deactivation
This seamless cylinder deactivation is made possible by intelligent interaction between the high-performance engine management system and CAMTRONIC valve lift adjustment, a technology also used in similar configurations in four-cylinder engines. Eight dual actuators are involved in half-engine mode, operating axially sliding cam units on the intake and exhaust camshafts via a shift gate. Half-engine operation is achieved by closing the relevant intake and exhaust valves of cylinders two, three, five, and eight. This not only minimizes load-change losses in the deactivated cylinders but also increases the efficiency of the remaining four active cylinders by shifting their operating point to higher loads.
AMG Performance 4MATIC+: Variable All-Wheel Drive System
The Benz E63 S is exclusively equipped with the innovative AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. This newly engineered, intelligent system combines the benefits of various drive configurations. Fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles ensures optimal traction right up to the physical limits of grip. Drivers can rely on exceptional driving stability and handling safety across diverse road conditions, whether dry, wet, or snow-covered. The transition between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive is seamless, thanks to intelligent control integrated into the vehicle’s overall system architecture.
An electromechanically controlled coupling variably connects the permanently driven rear axle to the front axle. The system continuously calculates the ideal torque distribution based on driving conditions and driver input. The performance sedan can seamlessly transition from traction-focused all-wheel drive to pure rear-wheel drive, with transitions managed by a sophisticated matrix. Beyond enhanced traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel drive system also improves longitudinal dynamics, contributing to even more powerful acceleration.
The fully variable torque distribution also enables thrilling drift maneuvers. Drift mode, a standard feature on the Benz E63 S, unlocks this capability. It can be activated in the “Race” drive program using the shift paddles, provided ESP® is deactivated and the transmission is in manual mode. Once drift mode is engaged, the E63 S transforms into a purely rear-wheel drive vehicle, and it remains active until manually deactivated by the driver.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed Sport Transmission: Fast Shifts, High Efficiency
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT nine-speed sport transmission in the Benz E63 S is specifically tuned to meet the demands of this high-performance sedan. This involved extensive re-engineering of both hardware and software.
Specialized software enables incredibly short shift times, rapid multiple downshifts, and a double-clutching function, delivering a highly engaging and emotional gear-shifting experience. A wet start-off clutch replaces the traditional torque converter, reducing weight and optimizing response to accelerator pedal inputs, particularly during acceleration and load changes.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT: Personalized Driving Experience
The four distinct AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs – “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport Plus,” and “Individual” – allow drivers to extensively tailor the driving characteristics of the Benz E63 S. These programs modify key parameters, including engine response, transmission behavior, suspension settings, steering feel, ESP® system, and all-wheel drive system operation. Independently of the DYNAMIC SELECT programs, drivers can directly engage manual mode by pressing the “M” button, enabling gearshifts exclusively via the steering wheel shift paddles. Suspension settings can also be adjusted independently as desired.
“Comfort” mode provides a balanced driving experience with a comfort-oriented suspension and steering setup, a fuel-efficient powertrain configuration, and early upshifts with smooth gear changes and a refined engine sound. Cylinder deactivation, ECO start/stop function, and gliding mode are all active in this setting. When the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 37 and 99 mph, the clutch of the MCT transmission disengages, decoupling the engine from the powertrain. The electronics reduce engine speed to idle, minimizing motion resistance from compression and frictional forces in overrun mode.
The DYNAMIC SELECT “Sport” and “Sport Plus” drive programs are designed for heightened vehicle dynamics. They feature an agile accelerator pedal response with a direct setup and emotionally engaging shift operations with shortened shift times and a double-clutching function during downshifts. The increased idle speed in “Sport Plus” mode further enhances launch performance and ensures quicker acceleration from a standstill. For ultimate dynamic driving on closed race circuits, the E63 S also includes the “RACE” drive program, optimizing all parameters for maximum performance.
RACESTART: Simplified Launch Control
The control logic for the RACESTART function has been simplified for ease of use. In Sport, Sport Plus, or RACE drive programs, the driver simply needs to forcefully depress the brake pedal with their left foot while simultaneously fully depressing the accelerator pedal with their right foot. The onboard electronics then set the optimal engine speed for launch. Depending on conditions or road surface, engine speed can be adjusted up or down using the shift paddles. Releasing the brake pedal initiates launch control, and the E63 S accelerates from rest with optimal traction, achieving 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds.
Suspension Engineering: Maximum Dynamics and Agility
The exceptional agility and high cornering speeds of the new Benz E63 S are a result of the completely re-engineered AMG sport suspension. Based on AIR BODY CONTROL fully supporting multi-chamber air suspension, it delivers exceptional camber stability. This advanced suspension system seamlessly blends dynamic performance and steering precision with a high level of ride comfort.
The four-link front axle design utilizes forged aluminum components including wishbones, strut rod, and spring link. The suspension strut supports the vehicle weight via the supporting link across from the body. Independent wheel control and suspension components, combined with the widened track, enable higher lateral acceleration and minimize torque steer.
The rear axle, also entirely re-engineered and model-specific, is specifically adapted to the performance sedan’s increased dynamic capabilities. The multi-link concept provides highly precise wheel control and enhanced stiffness. The AMG-specific rear axle carrier accommodates the wider track, with wheel bearing contact surfaces positioned further outwards compared to the standard Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan. Additional measures include AMG-specific wheel carriers, elastokinematic tuning optimized for vehicle dynamics, and increased negative camber. Newly developed elastokinematics ensure E-Class comfort alongside high precision and dynamic performance.
The rear axle differential features a new mount to improve NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) characteristics, further enhanced by additional bracing and welds. An anti-roll bar made from tubular material, similar to that used in the AMG GT R, reduces rear axle weight and is adapted to the performance sedan’s increased dynamic demands. The radial brake connection, derived from motorsport, contributes to more agile and precise handling by increasing rigidity and counteracting suspension vibrations and forces. Special rubber bushes on the axles and new elastokinematics have improved camber stability by 30 percent compared to the previous Benz E63 model.
Three-Chamber Air Suspension: Personalized Ride Experience
The air suspension system, with its three chambers, sporty spring damper setup, and continuously adjustable damping, elevates ride personalization to a new level. It combines exemplary vehicle dynamics with excellent road noise and vibration isolation. The rigidity of the air springs can be finely tuned by activating or deactivating individual air chambers, resulting in a tangible increase in comfort and improved handling.
Through extensive trials and test drives, AMG engineers have defined three spring tuning settings, dynamically adjusted based on the selected drive program and current driving conditions. During sudden load changes, rapid cornering, hard acceleration, or heavy braking, the spring rate is automatically stiffened on either the front or rear axle. This effectively reduces body roll and pitching, stabilizing the performance sedan.
In “Comfort” mode, the suspension prioritizes ride comfort, effectively absorbing road irregularities and delivering a smooth ride. “Sport” mode sharpens handling with a firmer spring rate, reducing body roll for more dynamic driving. “Sport Plus” mode further enhances agility and cornering capability with an even more rigid suspension setup on both axles. Furthermore, drivers can independently adjust the adaptive damping through three stages – “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” – to choose between relaxed comfort for long journeys and maximum sportiness. Rebound and compression levels are adjusted independently, and the freely programmable characteristics map provides a wide spectrum between minimum and maximum damper force. This refined system offers a more perceptible difference between comfortable and sporty suspension settings, adapting to diverse driving situations.
The comprehensive suspension package of the Benz E63 S Sedan delivers a compelling combination of steering precision, exceptional longitudinal and lateral dynamics, maximum traction, and enhanced ride comfort.
Rear Differential Lock: Optimal Traction, On and Off the Track
To further enhance traction and vehicle dynamics, the Benz E63 S is equipped with an electronically controlled rear differential lock. Both differentials minimize slip on the inside wheel during cornering without brake system interventions. This allows drivers to accelerate out of corners earlier and with more power thanks to improved traction. The car remains more stable during high-speed braking, and the limited-slip differential also improves traction during acceleration. The electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential’s primary advantage is its more sensitive and proactive control, raising performance thresholds and making it easier to drive at the vehicle’s limits. For optimal cooling, the limited-slip differential housing features additional cooling fins.
The three-stage ESP® system, with “ESP ON,” “ESP SPORT Handling Mode,” and “ESP OFF” settings, works in perfect harmony with the rear-axle limited-slip differential and AMG 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, optimized for outstanding dynamics.
Dynamic Engine Mounts: Standard on E63 S
Uniquely in its segment, the Benz E63 S features dynamic engine mounts. These mounts address the conflicting requirements of achieving a soft powertrain connection for comfort and a rigid connection for optimal vehicle dynamics. Dynamic mounts instantly and variably adapt their stiffness based on driving conditions and demands. This enhances vehicle precision during dynamic driving, resulting in more direct steering response and feedback. Cornering feels more precise, minimizing driver corrections due to reduced movement of major assemblies. On the racetrack, mount rigidity is maximized, further reducing inertia and improving lap times. Conversely, softer mounts significantly improve comfort on rough roads. Increased damping also stabilizes the powertrain quickly on undulating surfaces.
AMG Sport Speed-Sensitive Steering: Direct Feedback and Control
The electromechanical speed-sensitive sport steering in the Benz E63 S features a variable ratio, distinguished by its AMG-specific rack-and-pinion ratio and precise feedback. Steering power assistance is variably adjusted through “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” stages. Relevant characteristics are automatically activated based on the selected DYNAMIC SELECT drive program or can be personalized in “Individual” mode. Minimal steering input is required at low speeds, while solid straight-line stability is maintained at high speeds. The clearly defined center bearing and authentic feedback contribute to an optimal steering feel.
AMG High-Performance Braking System: Fade-Resistant and Responsive
The large-sized high-performance braking system ensures reliable and rapid deceleration for the Benz E63, maintaining fade resistance even under heavy loads. The E63 S is equipped with 15.4″ x 1.4″ compound brake discs on the front axle. For even greater braking power, the optional AMG Carbon Ceramic braking system features 15.8″ x 1.5″ brake discs at the front and 14.2″ x 1.3″ discs at the rear.
The three-stage ESP® system allows for significantly higher vehicle dynamics and driving enjoyment in ESP® Sport Handling Mode and with ESP® OFF. Specific traction logic is always active; when a driven wheel loses traction, ESP® applies brakes selectively for optimal engine output transfer to the road. The three-stage ESP® system offers enhanced safety and driving enjoyment to suit various needs:
- ESP® ON: Provides a high level of safety while complementing the car’s sporty character.
- ESP® Sport Handling Mode: Allows for wider yaw angles before system intervention, enabling a sportier driving style.
- ESP® OFF: Deactivates the system for sporty driving on closed circuits. ESP® reactivates temporarily during hard braking for safety.
Reinforced Body Structure: Enhanced Rigidity
The new performance sedans boast a rigid body structure, forming the foundation for maximum vehicle dynamics, comfortable handling even on rough roads, and a robust sense of quality. Four struts further reinforce the bodyshell: two front struts are even stiffer than those on the E43, and the Mercedes-AMG E63 S uniquely gains two rear struts for added structural integrity.
Sporty Interior Design: Driver-Focused Cockpit
The interior design of the Benz E63 reinforces its dynamic character with numerous bespoke details. The performance sport steering wheel in black leather, ideal for sporty driving, features a flattened bottom section, Touch Control buttons, electroplated shift paddles, and a steering wheel bezel with the AMG logo.
Alt text: Sporty interior design of the Mercedes-Benz E63 S AMG, featuring performance steering wheel and seats.
The driver and front passenger are securely positioned in the front sport seats, which offer enhanced lateral support during spirited driving. Distinctive seat upholstery options include black nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber, nut brown nappa leather, or macchiato nappa leather. Door center panels complement the seat design. Optional AMG Performance seats with integrated head restraints are available. Aluminum trim elements with a unique pattern accentuate the sporty ambience.
In the E63 S, the interior is further refined with nappa leather covering the instrument panel and beltlines, a sport steering wheel with a crystal grey 12 o’clock marking and contrast topstitching, an AMG crest in the front head restraints, crystal grey seat piping, an IWC-designed analogue clock, and crystal grey seat belts.
The AMG-specific instrument cluster presents vital information clearly within the driver’s field of vision. Dials with a checkered-flag design lend the large, legible displays a distinctly sporty touch. Motorsport enthusiasts will appreciate the RACETIMER system for recording lap times on closed tracks.
AMG TRACK PACE App: Performance Data and Analysis
Complementing the RACETIMER, Mercedes-AMG developed the new Mercedes me connect AMG TRACK PACE app. This app allows customers to analyze and improve their track driving style and share data with other AMG drivers via social media platforms or the AMG Private Lounge. The app, compatible with Apple iPhones®, connects to the onboard race app in the head unit via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth®. The COMAND Online infotainment system transmits real-time vehicle data – including speed, gear, steering angle, time, position, and temperature – to the app. Smartphone app connectivity with GoPro cameras allows drivers to create interactive videos of their track experiences, overlaid with performance data.
Intelligent Drive: Advanced Assistance Systems
The Benz E63 S sedan offers all the connectivity, Intelligent Drive functions, and options that make the Mercedes-Benz E-Class the most intelligent business sedan in its class. This includes semi-automated driving capabilities with the DRIVE PILOT driver assistance system, which can support the driver during routine tasks like driving in heavy traffic.
Extensive Personalization Options
For those seeking further personalization, a wide range of options is available for the Benz E63 S. The Night Package, attractive wheel alternatives, and carbon-fiber elements allow for exterior customization. Inside, the AMG Performance Steering Wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber and AMG Performance Seats, available for the first time, enhance the sporty character. Carbon-fiber trim parts or matte silver glass-fiber elements complete the personalization possibilities.
E63 S “Edition 1”: Exclusive Launch Edition
Available for approximately one year after market launch, the E63 S “Edition 1” offers exceptional exclusivity and distinction. Complementing the designo Night Black Magno paint finish, dynamic stripes on the side sill panels emphasize the elongated profile and forward motion of the AMG E63 S sedan. Additional features include new AMG 20-inch forged wheels in matte black with high-gloss polished rim flanges and the Night package.
The interior of the “Edition 1” features AMG Performance seats in black nappa leather with yellow topstitching, creating a strikingly sporty ambience. Color-matched elements include the AMG Performance sport steering wheel, door armrests, center console, AMG floor mats, and an IWC-designed analogue clock with yellow topstitching or accents. The sport steering wheel in black DINAMICA microfiber features “Edition 1” lettering and a black 12 o’clock marking. Carbon-fiber trim elements further enhance the dramatic contrast of colors and materials.
World Premiere and Market Launch
The new performance sedan, particularly the exclusive “Edition 1”, made its global debut on November 16, 2016, at the Los Angeles Auto Show, generating significant excitement. The US dealer launch is planned for the summer of 2017, bringing this benchmark performance sedan to eager customers.
