Mercedes-AMG is introducing the C63 S E PERFORMANCE to the Australian automotive market, a significant departure from its V8-powered predecessor, now embracing hybrid technology. Priced at $187,900 before on-road costs, this latest model sees a price increase of around $19,724 compared to the outgoing V8 C63 sedan.
The transition to a hybrid system represents a substantial shift in Mercedes-AMG's approach to high-performance vehicles. This new C63, initially expected to arrive earlier, is now open for orders, with customer deliveries slated for January 2024. Its powertrain, a marked change from the previous model's twin-turbo V8, combines a 350kW/545Nm turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with a rear-mounted 150kW/320Nm electric motor and a 6.1kWh lithium-ion battery. The total output of this system is a formidable 500kW and 1020Nm.
Mercedes-AMG's hybrid strategy delivers a notable increase in power and torque, up by 125kW and 420Nm, respectively. The C63 S E PERFORMANCE accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. Despite its focus on performance, the vehicle offers an electric-only range of up to 15 kilometers, catering to shorter, emission-free commutes. Fuel efficiency on the WLTP cycle is claimed at 6.9L/100km, and the battery supports charging through a 3.7kW onboard AC charger.
The vehicle's dimensions have also seen an update, with the new C63 S E PERFORMANCE measuring 4842mm in length, 2033mm in width, and 1458mm in height, riding on a 2875mm wheelbase. The kerb weight is approximately 2165kg, marking an increase of around 400kg over its predecessor, primarily due to the hybrid system and battery, which alone weighs 89kg. Despite the added weight, the vehicle maintains a 50:50 weight distribution.
In terms of handling and agility, the C63 S E PERFORMANCE features steel-spring suspension with adaptive damping and introduces rear-axle steering with up to 2.5 degrees of rotation for the first time in a C63 model. This addition enhances maneuverability and agility, especially at higher speeds. Drift Mode is also a new feature, allowing for dynamic driving experiences on closed circuits.
Inside, the C63 S E PERFORMANCE boasts a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, an 11.9-inch touchscreen, matrix LED headlights, power-adjustable front sports seats, a head-up display, and a Burmester 3D surround sound system. The panoramic glass sunroof adds to the premium feel of the cabin. Safety and driver assistance features are comprehensive, including a range of stability-control settings and advanced braking systems.
The all-wheel drive system in the C63 is capable of sending electrical power to the front wheels and features a two-speed transmission and LSD unit. It also allows for 'one-pedal driving' and electric power distribution adjustments for different driving scenarios, including a Drift mode.
Only the sedan version of the 2024 Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance is available in Australia, as the wagon body style is not offered in the new C-Class range locally. This latest iteration of the C63 S E PERFORMANCE represents Mercedes-AMG's commitment to integrating advanced technology and electrification in its high-performance vehicles, marking a new era for the brand in Australia.
Everything you need to know about the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E PERFORMANCE:
Pricing:
- 2024 Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance priced at $187,900 in Australia, before on-road costs.
Launch and Availability:
- Orders are now open, with customer deliveries expected to commence in January 2024.
Powertrain:
- Features a 350kW/545Nm turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, a rear-mounted 150kW/320Nm electric motor, and a 6.1kWh lithium-ion battery.
- Total system output: 500kW and 1020Nm.
- Nine-speed multi-clutch automatic transmission, two-speed transmission, LSD unit, and all-wheel drive.
Performance:
- 0-100km/h acceleration in 3.4 seconds.
- Top speed up to 280km/h.
Efficiency:
- Up to 15km electric-only range.
- WLTP fuel consumption of 6.9L/100km.
- 3.7kW onboard AC charger for battery recharging.
Dimensions:
- Length: 4842mm, Width: 2033mm (including mirrors), Height: 1458mm, Wheelbase: 2875mm.
- Kerb weight: 2165kg, Battery weight: 89kg.
- Boot space: 280L.
Warranty and Servicing:
- Five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.
- Service pricing details yet to be announced.
Safety Features:
- Adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian/cyclist detection, junction assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition, safe exit warning, surround-view camera, and 10 airbags.
Standard Equipment:
- Rear-axle steering, Drift Mode, AMG high-performance composite brake system, Digital Light headlights with adaptive high-beam.
- 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, satellite navigation.
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, head-up display, Burmester 3D surround sound system.
- Power-adjustable, heated front AMG sport seats, ambient lighting, wireless phone charger.
- AMG Track Pace package, semi-automatic parking assist.
Availability:
- Only the sedan version will be sold in Australia, as the wagon body style is not offered in the new C-Class range locally.
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