2018 MERCEDES AMG E63 S FIRST LOOK

2018 MERCEDES AMG E63 S FIRST LOOK BY AUTO CRITIC STEVE HAMMES

Mercedes says their forthcoming ultra-high performance E63 S sedan represents the biggest step forward they’ve taken from one generation to the next.

Building upon the technologically cutting edge E300 sedan which went on sale last year, the 2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 S infuses the midsize with a hellacious amount of power; up to 603 horses to be exact from its 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine – the most powerful engine to ever have been installed in an E-Class.

Through the use of a new AMG SPEEDSHIFT multi-clutch 9-speed transmission and a completely new Performance 4MATIC + all-wheel drive system, the E63 S delivers all-world acceleration, capable of 0-to-60mph in just 3.3 seconds – considerably faster than even the brand’s most potent sports car, the AMG GT S.

Torque distribution on the front and rear axles, which until now was strongly rear-biased, is fully variable for the first time. This ensures optimum traction right up to the physical limit, no matter the road conditions. It is still possible to drift thanks to fully variable torque distribution. This is where drift mode comes into its own.

The top speed is limited to 186 mph.  For maximum efficiency, Mercedes-AMG has equipped the V8 engine with the AMG Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation system.  In the partial-load range cylinders two, three, five and eight are deactivated, which crucially lowers fuel consumption.

When taking it easy, the air suspension delivers a tangible increase in comfort as well as improved handling.  To supplement the in-car RACETIMER, Mercedes-AMG has developed a new AMG TRACK PACE app.

Customers can use it to analyze and improve their track driving style and to share this with other AMG drivers via Social Media. Catch the E63 S if you can later this summer.