Mercedes-AMG has once again raised the bar for performance sedans with the introduction of the 2018 AMG E63. This model takes the already intelligent executive sedan and transforms it into the most potent E-Class iteration ever created. With groundbreaking technology and an unwavering commitment to driving dynamics, the Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 establishes new benchmarks in the high-performance automotive sector. The core of this transformation lies in its intelligent drive strategy, pushing vehicle dynamics to unprecedented levels. At its heart, a handcrafted 4.0L V8 biturbo engine delivers a staggering output, reaching up to 603 horsepower, making it the most powerful engine ever fitted into an E-Class. Simultaneously, enhanced efficiency is achieved through a standard cylinder deactivation system. The Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 S variant achieves a blistering zero to 60 mph acceleration in a mere 3.3 seconds, positioning it at the pinnacle of its class.
Unleashing Unprecedented Power: The V8 Biturbo Engine
The formidable power of the Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 originates from its handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine. This powerplant is not just about raw power; it’s an engineering marvel that combines immense output with surprising efficiency. In the E63 S model, this engine churns out an astounding 603 horsepower between 5,750 and 6,500 rpm, accompanied by a colossal 627 lb-ft of torque, readily available from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. This surge of power propels the sedan from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds, with acceleration continuing relentlessly until the electronically limited top speed of 186 mph.
The engine’s architecture features a ‘hot inner V’ configuration, positioning the twin turbochargers not on the outer sides of the cylinder banks, but nestled within the V itself. This innovative design results in a more compact engine, quicker turbo response, and reduced emissions thanks to optimized airflow to the close-coupled catalytic converters. Further enhancing performance and responsiveness are twin-scroll turbochargers, a first for this engine. Their housings are divided into two parallel flow passages, working in conjunction with separate exhaust ducts in the manifold to manage exhaust gases directed at the turbine wheel. This sophisticated system minimizes back pressure and improves gas exchange, leading to increased power, enhanced low-end torque, and immediate throttle response. Engine refinements also include new pistons, optimized air intake and charge air cooling, and advanced software management. Retained features include spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, an all-aluminum crankcase, four-valve-per-cylinder design with camshaft adjustment, air-water charge air cooling, alternator management, ECO start/stop function, and gliding mode, all contributing to the engine’s exceptional performance and efficiency.
To maximize fuel efficiency, the Mercedes-AMG 2018 AMG E63 incorporates AMG Cylinder Management. This system deactivates cylinders two, three, five, and eight in partial-load conditions, significantly reducing fuel consumption. Active in the “Comfort” drive program between 1,000 and 3,250 rpm, the system seamlessly transitions between four and eight-cylinder operation, ensuring passenger comfort remains uncompromised. This is achieved through intelligent interaction between the engine management system and CAMTRONIC valve lift adjustment, shutting off intake and exhaust valves in the deactivated cylinders. This not only minimizes load-change losses but also enhances the efficiency of the remaining active cylinders by shifting their operating point to higher loads.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Transmission and 4MATIC+ All-Wheel Drive
Complementing the potent engine is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT nine-speed sport transmission, meticulously engineered for the demands of the Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63. This transmission features both hardware and software enhancements to deliver lightning-fast gear changes, rapid multiple downshifts, and a double-clutching function, providing an emotionally engaging driving experience. A wet start-off clutch replaces the traditional torque converter, reducing weight and optimizing response to accelerator inputs, particularly during acceleration and load changes.
A standout feature of the Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 is the all-new AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. This system redefines torque distribution, offering fully variable torque split between the front and rear axles for the first time. This innovation combines the benefits of different drive configurations, ensuring optimal traction in all driving conditions, right up to the physical limits. The system provides exceptional driving stability and handling safety, whether on dry asphalt, wet roads, or snow-covered surfaces. The transition between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive is seamless and imperceptible, managed by an intelligent control system integrated into the vehicle’s architecture. An electromechanically controlled coupling variably connects the permanently driven rear axle to the front axle, continuously calculating the ideal torque distribution based on driving conditions and driver input. This allows for a spectrum of driving experiences, from traction-focused all-wheel drive to purely rear-wheel drive. Importantly, despite its all-wheel-drive capabilities, the Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 S retains the ability to drift, thanks to its fully variable torque distribution and a dedicated drift mode, standard on the S model. Activated in “Race” mode with ESP® deactivated and the transmission in manual mode, drift mode transforms the E63 S into a purely rear-wheel-drive machine, offering a unique and exhilarating driving experience.
Striking Design: Exterior and Interior Aesthetics
The Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 makes a powerful visual statement, both inside and out, reflecting its exceptional performance capabilities. The exterior design is characterized by muscular contours and dynamic lines, conveying the raw power and agility of the sedan. The front end, completely redesigned forward of the A-pillar, showcases the dedication Mercedes-AMG has poured into styling. Notably, the hood is inset between the fenders and bumper, a design cue borrowed from coupes and a first for an AMG sedan, creating a more dynamic and sculpted front profile. Wider wheel arches, expanded by 0.67 inches, accommodate the increased track width and larger wheels on the front axle, further enhancing the car’s assertive stance.
The new radiator grille, featuring twin louvers in silver chrome, vertical black struts, and prominent “AMG” lettering, emphasizes the car’s distinctive identity. A wide front bumper, inspired by jet wing designs and incorporating black flics and a substantial front splitter, visually underscores the model’s power. This design also integrates sophisticated cooling technology, a nod to motorsports and a visual cue to the potent engine within. Louvers within the outer cooling-air intakes further aid cooling by directing air towards the wheel arch coolers. The overall front section design exudes power and hints at the performance sedan’s immense forward thrust.
The side profile of the Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 is equally compelling, with carefully considered details enhancing its visual appeal. An arrow-shaped wing signet in silver chrome, bearing three-dimensional “V8 BITURBO 4MATIC+” lettering, serves as a distinctive highlight, emphasizing the advanced drivetrain. Side sill panels visually lower the sedan and elongate its silhouette. Silver chrome inserts differentiate the E63 S from the base E63 model, adding a touch of exclusivity. The E63 S rides on standard 20-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, finished in matte titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, wrapped in performance tires. Optionally available are newly designed 20-inch cross-spoke forged wheels, creating a visually striking, center-lock appearance. The rear of the Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 is muscular and refined, featuring a defined spoiler lip on the trunk lid in body color, a rear bumper with a diffuser-look insert, and bright chrome-plated twin tailpipe trim elements for the selectable sport exhaust system. The E63 S further distinguishes itself with a silver chrome trim strip on the rear bumper.
Inside the Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63, the sporty character is amplified by numerous bespoke details. The performance sport steering wheel, wrapped in black leather with a flattened bottom section, features Touch Control buttons, electroplated shift paddles, and an AMG logo bezel, perfectly suited for dynamic driving. Sport seats offer enhanced lateral support, ensuring driver and front passenger are securely positioned during spirited driving. Distinctive seat upholstery options include black nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber, nut brown nappa leather, or macchiato nappa leather, with door center panels complementing the chosen seat design. Optional AMG Performance seats with integrated head restraints are available for an even sportier feel. Aluminum trim elements with a unique pattern further accentuate the interior’s sporty ambiance. The E63 S elevates the interior with nappa leather covering for the instrument panel and beltlines, a sport steering wheel with a crystal grey 12 o’clock marking and contrast topstitching, an AMG crest in the front head restraints, crystal grey seat piping, an IWC-designed analogue clock, and crystal grey seat belts, creating a more refined and luxurious environment. The AMG-specific instrument cluster presents critical driving information clearly within the driver’s line of sight. Dials in a checkered-flag design impart a sporty aesthetic to the large, legible displays. Motorsport enthusiasts will appreciate the integrated RACETIMER system for lap timing on closed circuits.
Driving Dynamics and Handling Prowess
The Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 is engineered for exceptional agility and high-speed cornering, thanks to its completely redesigned AMG sport suspension. Based on AIR BODY CONTROL fully supporting multi-chamber air suspension, it provides superior camber stability, blending dynamic handling and steering precision with a high degree of ride comfort. The front axle utilizes a four-link design with forged aluminum components, including wishbones, strut rod, and spring link. This setup, combined with increased track width, enables higher lateral acceleration and minimizes torque steer.
The rear axle, also completely re-engineered and model-specific, is tailored to the performance sedan’s enhanced dynamics. Its multi-link design provides precise wheel control and increased stiffness. An AMG-specific rear axle carrier facilitates the wider track, with wheel bearing contact surfaces positioned further outwards compared to the standard Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan. AMG-specific wheel carriers and elastokinematic tuning optimized for vehicle dynamics further contribute to enhanced handling. Newly developed elastokinematics ensure the E-Class’s renowned comfort is maintained while delivering high precision and dynamic performance. The rear axle differential features a new mount to improve NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) characteristics, with additional bracing and welds further enhancing refinement. A tubular anti-roll bar, similar to that used in the AMG GT R, reduces rear axle weight and is adapted to the performance sedan’s increased dynamic capabilities. Radial brake connections, derived from motorsport, enhance handling agility and precision by increasing rigidity against suspension vibrations and forces. Special rubber bushes on the axles and new elastokinematics have improved camber stability by 30 percent compared to the previous E63 model.
The three-chamber air suspension system, with its sporty spring damper setup and continuously adjustable damping, allows for a highly personalized driving experience. It balances exceptional vehicle dynamics with refined ride quality. The air springs’ rigidity can be adjusted by activating or deactivating individual air chambers, enhancing both comfort and handling. AMG engineers have defined three spring tuning settings based on the selected drive program and driving conditions. During sudden load changes, rapid cornering, hard acceleration, or braking, spring rates automatically stiffen on the front or rear axle to reduce roll and pitch, stabilizing the sedan. In “Comfort” mode, the suspension prioritizes ride comfort, effectively absorbing road irregularities. “Sport” mode delivers significantly more dynamic handling with reduced roll due to firmer spring rates, while “Sport Plus” mode further enhances agility and cornering ability with even more rigid suspension settings on both axles. Furthermore, drivers can select from three adaptive damping stages – “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” – to tailor the ride from relaxed comfort to maximum sportiness. Rebound and compression levels are independently adjustable, offering a wide spectrum between minimum and maximum damper force, resulting in a more refined and noticeable difference between comfortable and sporty suspension settings. The Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 S Sedan achieves a compelling combination of steering precision, exceptional longitudinal and lateral dynamics, maximum traction, and enhanced ride comfort.
To maximize traction and vehicle dynamics, the E63 S is equipped with an electronically controlled rear differential lock. This system minimizes wheel slip on the inside wheel during cornering, enabling earlier and more powerful acceleration out of corners. It also enhances stability during high-speed braking and improves traction when accelerating. The electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential offers more sensitive and proactive control, raising performance thresholds and making it easier to drive at the vehicle’s limits. Additional cooling fins on the differential housing ensure optimal cooling. The three-stage ESP® system, with “ESP ON,” “ESP SPORT Handling Mode,” and “ESP OFF” settings, works harmoniously with the rear-axle limited-slip differential and AMG 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive to deliver outstanding dynamics.
Unique in its segment, the E63 S features dynamic engine mounts. These mounts variably adjust their stiffness based on driving conditions, resolving the conflict between powertrain isolation for comfort and rigid connection for optimal dynamics. Dynamic mounts enhance steering precision and feedback, making cornering feel more precise and minimizing driver corrections. On the racetrack, the mounts remain rigid, minimizing inertia and improving lap times. Conversely, softer mounts improve comfort on rough roads, and increased damping stabilizes the powertrain on undulating surfaces. The electromechanical speed-sensitive sport steering features a variable ratio and AMG-specific rack-and-pinion ratio for precise feedback. Steering power assistance adjusts in “Comfort,” “Sport,” or “Sport Plus” modes, automatically activated by the DYNAMIC SELECT program or personalized in “Individual” mode. Minimal steering input is needed at low speeds, while solid straight-line stability is maintained at high speeds. The steering system provides an optimum steering feel with a clearly defined center bearing and authentic feedback. The AMG high-performance braking system ensures reliable and rapid deceleration, even under heavy loads. The E63 S features large 15.4″ x 1.4″ compound brake discs on the front axle. Optional AMG Carbon Ceramic brakes are available with even larger discs for enhanced stopping power. The three-stage ESP® system allows for significantly higher vehicle dynamics and driving enjoyment, with specific traction logic active at all times to optimize power delivery. Additional body struts reinforce the bodyshell, enhancing vehicle dynamics, handling, and overall quality.
Advanced Features and Personalization
The Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 incorporates a suite of intelligent technologies and personalization options to enhance the driving experience. The AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs – “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport Plus,” and “Individual” – allow drivers to tailor the car’s characteristics by modifying engine response, transmission behavior, suspension settings, steering feel, ESP®, and all-wheel drive system. “Comfort” mode prioritizes balanced driving with a comfort-oriented suspension, fuel-efficient powertrain, and smooth gear changes. Cylinder deactivation, ECO start/stop, and gliding mode are active in this setting. “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes are designed for dynamic driving, with agile accelerator response, emotive gear shifts, and shortened shift times. “Sport Plus” mode increases idle speed for quicker starts and faster acceleration. The E63 S also features a “RACE” drive program for maximum performance on closed circuits, optimizing all parameters for track driving. The RACESTART function has been simplified, allowing for optimal acceleration from a standstill in Sport, Sport Plus, or RACE modes.
The new AMG TRACK PACE app, supplementing the RACETIMER, allows drivers to analyze and improve their track driving performance. This Mercedes me connect app for Apple iPhones® connects to the in-car system via wifi or Bluetooth®, providing real-time vehicle data including speed, gear, steering angle, and lap times. It can also be linked with GoPro cameras to create interactive videos of track sessions with overlaid performance data. The Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 also offers the full suite of Intelligent Drive functions and connectivity features found in the standard E-Class, including semi-automated driving with DRIVE PILOT. A wide range of personalization options is available, including Night Package elements, wheel choices, carbon-fiber trim, and interior upgrades like the AMG Performance Steering Wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber and AMG Performance Seats. Carbon-fiber or matte silver glass-fiber trim parts further enhance interior customization.
For a limited period after launch, the E63 S “Edition 1” offers exclusive features, including a designo Night Black Magno paint finish, dynamic side stripes, matte black 20-inch AMG forged wheels with high-gloss polished rims, and the Night package. The interior features black nappa leather AMG Performance seats with yellow topstitching, matching accents throughout the cabin, “Edition 1” lettering on the steering wheel, and carbon-fiber trim, creating a highly distinctive and exclusive offering.
The Mercedes-Benz 2018 AMG E63 represents a significant leap forward in performance sedan engineering, blending immense power, cutting-edge technology, and striking design to redefine its class and deliver an unparalleled driving experience.
