Mercedes and its AMG engineers have tested prototypes for the E63 extensively – even recruiting former McLaren F1 ace Mika Häkkinen and race driver Klaus Ludwig to fine-tune it – and the end result is the fastest and most powerful version of the E-Class saloon yet.
The new E63 AMG distinguishes itself from the standard Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedans with a newly developed sports suspension system with electronically controlled damping, revised front suspension and unique exterior and interior design.
Despite current concerns about global warming and a possible end to the horsepower war between Germany’s in-house tuners, the new E63 continues with the potent hand-built 6.2L V8, while the rest of the car’s mechanical package has been given a major makeover. Power has been bumped up to 518hp (386kW) and 465lb-ft (630Nm), and all that thrust is funneled through a 7-speed MCT dual-clutch transmission, spurting the sedan from a standstill to 60mph in just 4.4 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155mph. Despite the increase in power, however, the car is now 12% more efficient, checking in at 18.6mpg.
Engineers have also focused on improving the handling and chassis, borrowing a number of features from the new C63 AMG.
The transmission is the real technical update, however, offering four driving modes: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual), which can be selected using a rotary electronic switch in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Partial suppression of individual cylinders by interrupting ignition and injection during gearshifts under full load lets the transmission change gear even faster than it could otherwise. In M mode, the MCT swaps the gears in just 100 milliseconds.
The sporty AMG model also gets a 56mm wider front track and unique steering ratio compared to the regular E-Class, plus MacPherson strut and multi-link active suspension. The new electronically suspension system, called AMG Ride Control, allows drivers to vary the damping and level of body roll at the push of a button. Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus modes are offered, and these work in conjunction with an updated power steering system and three-stage stability system. Once again, drivers can select from ESP On, Sport, or Off.
Highlights of the exterior include 17mm wider fenders, unique LED daytime running lights, bi-xenon headlights, and 19in alloy wheels shod with 285mm rubber in the rear (18in wheels come standard).
While the new E63 saloon is set to go on sale this November, the Estate wagon version of the car isn’t due to arrive in showrooms until sometime next year.
Reader Comments
Thu May 8 2008 2:24 PM
ally says
it looks better than the current one to me....but for sum reason i like the audi a6 and bmw 5 series more...
Thu May 8 2008 2:47 PM
Jerd says
I think the styling is very sad :( Its a shame that marcedes has started designing cars that look like Lexuses when barely 10years ago it was the other way around. I love the new S-class and C-class. They epitomize Mercedes in every way. This E-class, however, may as well have a Lexus badge on the front. Don't get me wrong, as a machine, it WILL be a masterpiece and a leader in its class............ but thats all..............
Mon Jun 2 2008 10:47 AM
Alan says
European copying japanese styling seems ironic but this is not the first time. I think Jagaur's XF really reminds me of Lexus GS. I have seen the XF on the street, and in real life i still get the same feeling when i see one, GS just comes to my mind instantly
Mon Jun 2 2008 2:19 PM
nigel says
oh~~~s***! what's wrong with the mb desingers?? copy lexus Gs ?
I like its look,,and I appreciate its power and so called MB, but, is there sth wrong?
Mon Jun 2 2008 7:35 PM
Christian says
But when has the e class really been a good looking vehicle, its an old mans car. i could way rather take the cls.
Wed Sep 10 2008 2:36 AM
designer says
get rid of those lights they look to squarish give it the sl light desgin
Wed Sep 10 2008 3:31 PM
Fred says
I have to agree with you all, there are too many add ons.scoops, flares and what ever from what is basically a nice shape. Smooth it out more like Audi.
Thu Mar 19 2009 4:35 PM
azlan says
id take the audi... but i would take the merc over the bmw
Fri Mar 20 2009 3:11 AM
jaafar_sn says
all you talking about MB had copied the GS . but can you remmeber that lexus brand is began from 89andevery car in lexus is copied 100% from mercedes likefor example:
the new SC is SLK R170 1998
even the naming of the cars is copied
all the japanese cant bulid a car without copy
Fri Mar 20 2009 7:02 AM
Sid says
What does Lexus make today that is truly original?
Sun Mar 22 2009 2:03 AM
azlan says
they are original by being the only company that are soo un-original
Sun Mar 22 2009 4:46 AM
gazzed says
My eyes see Mercedes but my mind says Lexus...
This time around the best German brand with the most polished looks goes to:
a. Audi
b. Volkswagen
c. Mercedes & BMW tied
Sun Mar 22 2009 11:43 AM
Gus says
I'm sure it will be n excellent car, but the looks are just a little awkward to me.
One of those I'd have to see in person first. Sometimes cars look better in person than on paper, and vice versa.
Sun Mar 22 2009 5:56 PM
justinhk2000 says
i don't like how they squared off the front headlights, they annoy me greatly. if only the headlights look like lexus, it dosen't make it a lexus, to me the C pillar of the car reminds me of the Acura RL, but that dosen't make it a acura does it?
Mon Mar 23 2009 7:02 AM
Quantum says
they all look so similar those merco's ... exept the cls
Tue Mar 31 2009 7:37 PM
Gus says
Everything just looks too "angular" to me.
Hate to say this, but too "Japanese". Which isn't a bad thing - on a Japanese car...
Tue Mar 31 2009 10:42 PM
justinhk2000 says
yes, goin to the ny car show on the 12th, cant wait to see it
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