For users of this brand, this new plug-in hybrid model will be available in a saloon and family version, which you can find in the brand’s catalogue, and which incorporates the most powerful four-cylinder combustion engine in the world.
Despite the fact that it is a plug-in hybrid model, the presence of an electric motor on the rear axle does not respond directly to the desire to reduce its consumption and emissions data. With a range in electric mode of only 13 km, it will be eligible for the DGT ECO label, but of course it cannot be presented as a vehicle that embraces new forms of mobility to offer itself as a more ecological product.
Quite the contrary: the new Mercedes-AMG C63 SE Performance uses hybridization to offer a product as wild as we were used to, although it no longer has a brutal V8 with a hoarse sound under the hood. It does not matter, with 680 CV –500 kW– of maximum power and 1,020 Nm of torque, it is conceivable that it will continue to eat tires as in previous deliveries.
The exterior appearance of the Mercedes-AMG C63 SE Performance is easily distinguishable at first glance from the rest of the brothers in the range. In fact, despite the obvious differences in terms of its propulsion system with respect to its predecessors, at a glance the continuity with respect to the aggressive and resounding image of this model in previous generations is clear.
Thus, a review of its dimensions is eloquent enough regarding the distinction of this model with respect to the rest of the examples of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class: it is 83 mm longer, of which 10 mm are invested in increasing its distance between axes, and 76 mm greater track width.
The front structure gains 50 mm, and it highlights the specific AMG grille, with vertical lines. Just above it, on the bonnet at its front end, is an AMG emblem in black, which replaces the usual star with the laurel wreath for the first time.
If we continue backwards, the air outlet in the center of the hood stands out, located between two humps –powerdomes–, which we do not understand very well if they want to evoke the presence of two cylinder heads inside, as would have been the case if it equated an engine in V. It serves to contribute to the aggressive character of the model, there is no doubt, in the same way that the side skirts. At the rear, the sedan features a small aerodynamic element above the boot lid, which is a true spoiler on the Estate variant. Both incorporate a large rear diffuser, as well as trapezoidal trims for the exhaust outlets on each side.
It retains the aggressive look we’re used to from Affalterbach models, though we suspect some of the optional equipment packages on offer may still take it to a higher level of malevolent image.
The standard 19-inch wheels can grow an inch larger in diameter as an option, and forged wheels will also be offered. The tires will be of different sizes on each axle, although we have not yet received information about the specific data. There will also be numerous optional equipment packages, both to add carbon fiber elements, and ultimately to increase the aggressive appearance of the model, how could it be otherwise. Similarly, a model-exclusive matte exterior paint color will be offered in a graphite gray hue.
The interior also exudes exclusivity, without neglecting the refinement that anyone expects from a product of the Stuttgart brand. It has sports seats, with the possibility of being upholstered in nappa leather. It incorporates the MBUX system for infotainment, with specific display diagrams for this model, which allow access to numerous data about the situation of the elements of the powertrain, for example. The steering wheel is also specific, with double spokes, and brings together numerous buttons for, among others, the selection of the different driving and energy recovery modes.
The propulsion system of this new Mercedes-AMG C63 SE Performance is made up of a gasoline combustion engine, mounted longitudinally under the front hood, and an electric motor on the rear axle. From the first, a two-liter four-cylinder engine developed entirely in Affalterbach, AMG has been able to extract a staggering 476 hp at 6,725 revolutions per minute, which determines a specific power of 238 hp/litre. The maximum torque delivered is 545 Nm, available between 5,250 and 5,500 rpm.
To squeeze this block to such a level of power, a turbocharger has been added, which is larger than in other models of the brand, such as the C43 or SL43, and which is assisted by an electric motor. This is a solution incorporated from Formula 1, and makes this engine – internally named M139l, due to its longitudinal placement – the first one produced in series with a turbocharger of this type.
This small electric motor, just four centimeters in size, allows the turbocharger to pick up speed before there is enough pressure from the exhaust gases, thus increasing the torque available at low revolutions. In this way, it is possible to reduce the response time before the insinuations of the foot on the right pedal, since it is able to keep the turbocharger turning even when the foot is removed from the accelerator. This one, by the way, can spin up to 150,000 rpm.
One of the distinctive features of this second engine is that it has two gears, in order to offer a compromise between intense delivery of torque, or more linear assistance to the movement of the whole. The second gear is engaged, thanks to an electric actuator, at a maximum of 140 km/h, which corresponds to the maximum rotational speed of the electric motor, that is, 13,500 rpm. The fact that it is located on the rear axle, associated with an electronic locking differential, does not mean that it can only deliver power to the rear wheels. The AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive means that, in the event of loss of traction, the torque offered by this electric motor can be transmitted to the front wheels.
The maximum speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, although it can be extended on request up to 280 km/h –270 km/h in the Estate version– Made for people like you, who like the aggressiveness, personality and good taste of the brand.