The most powerful E-Class ever has been revealed this week, the 2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 S. With 603 horsepower and 4MATIC all-wheel drive, 0-60 mph takes only 3.3 seconds.
The 2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 S is one of two models, the slightly lesser powered and outfitted 563 horsepower E63 sedan being the entry point. But all-out performance minded drivers will surely want the extra dash of bad the E63S brings.
They come with completely different sheet metal from the cabin forward. The hood sits down between fenders with bulging wheel arches for a track almost an inch wider. A more aggressive AMG grille design features extra air intakes for its intercoolers and brake cooling.
Deeper side sills lower the stance of the E63 S and tie the visuals of its huge 20-inch wheels together into its more muscular tone. Through them you can see its massive 15.4-inch front disc brakes. Even larger 15.8-inch carbon ceramic discs are optional.
At the rear, a decklid spoiler and more sporting rear fascia are unique as are the twin tail pipes of its sport exhaust system. And the sound, it’s something much more streetwise than you might expect from the three pointed star.
Making all this sound is the latest iteration of the Mercedes-AMG 4.0 twin-turbocharged V8, here with 603 hp and 627 pound-feet of torque. For the first time it uses twin-scroll turbochargers along with a revised intake system and new pistons.
Also a first for Mercedes-AMG, is a new cylinder deactivation system that cuts fuel, spark and valve operation to four-cylinders when power isn’t needed to save fuel. But you really don’t want to hear about saving gas here, it’s about speed.
All of that 603 horsepower drives all four wheels through a new all-wheel drive system that has for the first time fully variable torque distribution to the front and rear axles. A center mounted clutch can vary power from 100% to the rear axle to a full split front and rear.
Controlled through the various drive modes, the all-wheel drive system can vary the torque split automatically or to predetermined set points such as in Race mode and a new Drift mode where you get pure and unadulterated rear-wheel drive with the aid of an electronically controlled locking differential.
Keeping it all planted is a re-engineered multi-chamber AMG Air Body Control sport suspension with lightened components of forged aluminum. A wider track front and rear and revised mounting hardware help control wheel movements and torque steer with all its extra power.
So you’re out at the track racing in your luxury sedan, listening to all that sweet racket. But are you comfortable? Yes.
For its price, Nappa leather covers most every surface including the dash, door panels and console in addition to the seats. You get an AMG instrument cluster with big dials and a race timer to log your track times and metrics. The full on AMG sport seats still however remain an option.
The new 2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 S will makes its US debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show and will go on sale here in summer of 2017. Pricing will be a lot and will be announced closer to its on sale date.
