The 2010 Mercedes Benz E63 Amg is often lauded as a high-performance luxury sedan, blending power and sophistication. However, one owner’s experience reveals significant dissatisfaction, particularly concerning its advertised performance capabilities and electronic aids. This review delves into the shortcomings highlighted by a seasoned professional driver, offering a critical perspective for potential buyers.
Having spent over seven years professionally racing cars in series like GrandAm, FIA GT, and others, and with experience driving a wide array of high-performance vehicles, including a Bugatti Veyron, the author approached the E63 AMG with high expectations. The initial excitement quickly turned to disappointment upon discovering limitations in accessing the car’s full potential.
The primary issue lies with the 2010 E63 AMG’s Electronic Stability Program (ESP). Despite having an “ESP OFF” button, the system does not fully disengage, especially in US models. This crucial detail was discovered while attempting to explore the car’s handling limits. Unlike European versions that reportedly allow complete deactivation of traction control, the US-spec E63 AMG retains an intrusive level of electronic intervention. This limitation severely hampers the driving experience for those seeking true performance and car control.
The author recounts a concerning incident during a drift maneuver on a freeway on-ramp. Unexpectedly, the ESP reactivated, causing a sudden and erratic directional change, nearly leading to an accident. Following this intervention, the car entered a violent shaking and limp mode, with significantly reduced engine power. This protective mode, triggered by the car’s electronic systems, is described as an unprecedented experience in a naturally aspirated engine, further highlighting the car’s overly cautious electronic nannies.
Adding to the frustration, the author attempted to find “dyno mode,” a setting known to disable all electronic aids for performance testing. Extensive online research and inquiries yielded unsuccessful methods, suggesting a deliberate obfuscation of full electronic control deactivation in the US models. This inability to fully unleash the car’s power and disable safety systems is a major point of contention for performance enthusiasts.
Beyond the performance limitations imposed by the ESP, the review points out several other shortcomings that are deemed unacceptable for a vehicle in the 2010 Mercedes Benz E63 AMG’s price bracket:
- Non-Programmable AMG Button: Unlike similar performance models with customizable buttons, the AMG button in the E63 cannot be configured to directly disable ESP.
- Foot-Operated Parking Brake: The outdated foot-operated parking brake is criticized in comparison to more modern electronic parking brakes.
- Outdated Navigation System: The navigation system is described as significantly behind contemporary standards, lacking in features and user-friendliness.
- Lack of Key Memory for Driver Settings: The absence of key memory for seat, mirror, and steering wheel positions is a surprising omission in a luxury car.
- No Power Folding Mirrors: The lack of power-folding mirrors is another feature expected in this class of vehicle that is missing.
- Inconvenient iPod Integration: The iPod connector located in the glove box, which also fails to charge devices, is considered a poorly designed and outdated integration solution.
- Subpar Backup Camera: The quality of the backup camera is described as inadequate, providing a distorted and unclear view.
- Confusing Park Sensors: The parking sensors are criticized for lacking a clear visual display on the command screen, making them less intuitive to use.
- Malfunctioning Garage Door Opener: The integrated garage door opener is reported to erratically erase stored codes, requiring frequent reprogramming.
In conclusion, this owner’s experience with the 2010 Mercedes Benz E63 AMG reveals significant dissatisfaction stemming from overly intrusive electronic stability controls and a range of questionable feature omissions for its price point. For buyers prioritizing raw performance and complete control, particularly in the US market, this review serves as a cautionary tale. Potential owners are advised to thoroughly investigate these limitations and consider whether the 2010 Mercedes Benz E63 AMG truly aligns with their performance expectations and desired driving experience.
