From time to time a motor manufacturer gets it just right with an updated version of its current model. It was pretty much obvious to me as soon as I pressed the engine start button that this new Mercedes-AMG C63 S was one of those cars.  During this blog I will explain why this, the new Mercedes-AMG C63 S Saloon, has a place in the 4 door, saloon car legendary hall of fame… (alongside other vehicles from Mercedes-Benz such as – the 190 E 2.3 Cosworth and the evolution versions). 

First of all, AMG have thrown all their toys and expertise into the production ofthis car.

It has a new AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission. Yes…. you have read that right, it has a 9 speed auto gearbox (the previous model had 7). This new auto transmission shifts even quicker between gears.  When I drove the car normally (with my “oh so light” right foot) the gear changes are seamless.  When I stamped on the accelerator pedal (it would’ve been rude not too) the response was immense.   I found that in the blink of an eye I was traveling up to the national speed limit with the gearbox shifting quickly between gears.

Some of you may know that I used to sell new Mercedes-Benz and experienced AMG models back in the early 2000’s.  I found that with older models there was a delay from stamping on the accelerator pedal and the initial “take off.” The new C63 S has a new wet start-off clutch, so this is no longer an issue. It doesn’t use or need a torque converter.

I quickly flicked through the “Slippery”, “Comfort, “Sport”, Sport+” Race and “Individual” different driving modes of the new DYNAMIC SELECT drive programmes.  The reason for the quick scroll through was that this was a test drive on the Queen’s Highway and not a race track…. therefore I was not going to select “RACE” mode.  I selected the mode that I think the majority of owners will select when driving in normal traffic conditions – “Comfort” mode. 

Traveling on a mix of A-roads and duel carriageways, Inoticed the ride was firm but not spine jarring.  It can quite happily waft around…. allowing the driver and passengers to arrive at their destination refreshed and chilled (only Mercedes-Benz know how to set up a car suspension to do that). There is only a slight hint of a “growl” sound up front from the 4.0 litre V8 engine.  Provoke the engine a little harder and you get the most glorious sound track from both the engine and the rear exhausts.  At that same time my body and head where pinned back against the driver seat.  0 to 62 mph in only 4 seconds. 

Interestingly, and slightly mind boggling to me, is this car gave me no impression that it was turbo charged.  The power is just continuous up through the rev range.  The engine just keeps pulling like the old days of the Kompressor (supercharger).

The steering has a reassuring weighted feel, which weights up nicely according to what speed I was traveling at.

Believe me…. this car is still scintillating to drive – even in so called “Comfort mode”.

The Mercedes AMG C63 S interior has a quality feel and a fresh look….making it sophisticated and welcoming.  It has the most gorgeous and comfortable front seats.  The New AMG C63 S has a new sports “chunky” feel steeringwheel which is flattened at the bottomed and is covered in nappa leather/DINAMICA Microfibre.  It has the new Touch Control buttons (left and right) which were first seen on the new E-Class.  The easy to use system allows me to control/change the instrument cluster and the multi media system with a swipe of a finger or thumb.

I could also select the different driving modes with the new rotary knob on the bottom right of the steering wheel.  Directly opposite, on the bottom left of the steering wheel, are the quick reference settings for your own preferred selected driving mode.

(See picture below).


The all new 12.3 digital inch cockpit display.

 New 10.25 inch central display showing reversing camera.

Like I said at the start of this blog, this is one of those cars that the car history books will look favourably on.  No, it is not cheap.  Prices start from £75,733. The car I tested, including optional extras, costs £81,408 ….BUT what a car you get for this price! A car that can do everything from the daily trip to the office to a blast around your local race circuit (if you so wish). It has a unique way of making the driver feel special ….knowing that the 9 stage electronic traction control aids will deal with any lack of driver talent (providing you don’t switch them all off). There are not many cars out there that can give you such a raw feel to its power – whilst producing such a ferocious soundtrack from its engine/exhaust system.  It is just addictive to hear and something I am sure you will never ever grow tired of hearing.

I definitely recommend taking a look at the new Mercedes AMG 63 S saloon, if you are in the market.  This is a classy and professional looking car both inside and out!  It will be a future classic…. if it isn’t already.

We Blog Any Car stats:

  • Mercedes AMG C 63 S Saloon
  • 4.0 litre V8 engine
  • Bi-turbo
  • 510 hp
  • 700 Nm of torque
  • AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed auto gearbox
  • electronically controlled limited -slip diff
  • multi-link independent rear suspension
  • 4.0 seconds 0 to 62 mph
  • 180mph top speed (limited)
  • 227g/km CO2
  • 28.5mpg
  • £75,733 price on the road starts from
  • £81,408 price of car tested

Car courtesy of Mercedes-Benz UK

Check out the video below of the all new 12.3 inch digital cockpit display and 10.25 inch central display.

https://youtu.be/YWSXvhsRt4M