Mercedes-AMG is pushing the boundaries of performance sedans with the latest generation E63 S. This model takes the already intelligent executive sedan and transforms it into the most formidable E-Class to date, boasting groundbreaking technology and unparalleled power. The innovative drive strategy elevates the vehicle dynamics of this performance sedan to unprecedented levels. At its heart, the hand-built AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine delivers a staggering 603 horsepower, making it the most potent engine ever fitted into an E-Class. Efficiency is also enhanced through a standard cylinder deactivation system. The E63 S achieves a blistering 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3.3 seconds, positioning it as a leader in its class.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed sport transmission, now featuring a wet start-off clutch for the first time, enables quicker and more responsive gear changes. A key innovation is the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system. This system intelligently combines the advantages of different drive configurations, offering fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles – a departure from the previous rear-biased setup. This ensures optimal traction under all driving conditions, pushing performance to its absolute limits. Complementing the exceptional performance is an expressive exterior design, highlighted by a new radiator grille and a coupe-style inset hood, signaling the next generation E63’s commitment to both sportiness and luxury.
The latest iteration of the E63 S marks a significant leap forward for Mercedes-AMG, introducing advancements that redefine what a performance sedan can be. It seamlessly blends cutting-edge powertrain engineering with maximum performance, wrapped in a distinctive design and loaded with exclusive features and the latest connected infotainment systems.
“The new E63 S represents the single biggest generational leap we’ve ever undertaken. Vehicle dynamics were paramount in our development. From the outset, we chose a fully variable all-wheel-drive system. This, combined with the immense power of the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, truly embodies our ‘Driving Performance’ philosophy,” states Tobias Moers, then Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
Mercedes-AMG E63 S: Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V8 biturbo |
| Displacement | 3,982 cc |
| Horsepower | 603 hp @ 5,750 – 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 627 lb-ft @ 2,500–4,500 rpm |
| Drive System | AMG Performance 4MATIC+ permanent all-wheel drive with variable torque distribution and drift mode |
| Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed sport transmission |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration | 3.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 186 mph (electronically limited) |
Exterior Design: A Unique and Powerful Front End
Every detail of the E63 S’s exterior and interior is meticulously crafted to amplify the AMG Driving Performance experience. The exterior design is characterized by muscular contours and sharp lines. The front end, distinctively styled from the A-pillar forward, reflects Mercedes-AMG’s dedication to aggressive aesthetics. For the first time in an AMG sedan, the hood is inset between the fenders and bumper, reminiscent of a coupe, giving it a more sculpted and dynamic profile. Wider wheel arches, expanded by 0.67 inches, accommodate a broader track and larger front axle wheels.
The new radiator grille, featuring twin louvers in silver chrome, vertical black struts, and prominent “AMG” lettering, further emphasizes the car’s unique identity. A wide front bumper, inspired by jet wing designs, includes black flics and a substantial front splitter, visually communicating the immense power of this model. This design also highlights the advanced cooling technology crucial for high-performance vehicles, a nod to motorsports engineering and the powerful engine within. The outer cooling-air intakes, each with two louvers, contribute to this cooling efficiency by directing airflow to the wheel arch coolers.
Overall, the front section exudes exceptional power, immediately conveying the potent forward thrust of this new performance sedan.
Side Profile and Muscular Rear Design
The elongated side view of the E63 S Sedan further reinforces its powerful stance through carefully curated design elements. A notable detail is the arrow-shaped wing badge in silver chrome, proudly displaying three-dimensional “V8 BITURBO 4MATIC+” lettering, a striking emblem of the car’s powertrain. The side sill panels visually lower the sedan, enhancing its sleek profile and extending its lines. Silver chrome inserts distinguish the E63 S from the standard E63 model.
The E63 S comes standard with staggered tire sizes: 265/35 ZR 20 at the front and 295/30 ZR 20 at the rear, mounted on 9.5 J x 20 (front) and 10 J x 20 (rear) 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, finished in matte titanium grey with a high-sheen accent. As an option, a new 20-inch cross-spoke forged wheel design, resembling a center-lock wheel, is available.
The rear of the vehicle is equally muscular, featuring a clearly defined spoiler lip in body color on the trunk lid, a rear bumper with a diffuser-look insert, and bright chrome-plated twin tailpipe trim elements integrated with the selectable sport exhaust system. The E63 S also includes a silver chrome trim strip on the rear bumper, adding a touch of premium detail.
Aerodynamics: Performance-Oriented Lift Balance
The E63 S’s design is a collaborative effort between designers and aerodynamics experts. Their work resulted not only in the striking AMG bodystyling but also in a performance-optimized lift balance. This balance contributes to agile handling on winding roads and exceptional stability at high speeds on highways. Engineers also prioritized minimizing wind noise, reducing aerodynamic drag for improved fuel efficiency, and ensuring thermal robustness for all systems. The rear spoiler, specifically tailored to the sedan’s airflow, effectively reduces lift on the rear axle.
Engine Performance: 4.0L V8 Biturbo with Twin-Scroll Turbochargers
The AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine in the E63 S elevates performance to new heights, delivering 603 hp and a massive 627 lb-ft of torque, available from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. This translates to a 0-60 mph sprint in just 3.3 seconds, with acceleration limited only by the electronically governed top speed of 186 mph.
This advanced AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine employs proven twin-turbocharging technology. However, unlike traditional setups, the two turbochargers are positioned not on the outer sides of the cylinder banks but within the “hot inner V” configuration. This innovative “hot inner V” design offers several advantages: a more compact engine size, immediate turbocharger response thanks to shorter airflow paths, and reduced emissions due to optimized airflow to the close-coupled catalytic converters.
For enhanced performance and responsiveness, the engine utilizes twin-scroll turbochargers for the first time. The turbocharger housing is divided into two parallel flow passages. Combined with dual exhaust ducts in the exhaust manifold, this allows for separate control of exhaust gases reaching the turbine wheel. Exhaust gas from cylinders one and four of a cylinder bank flows through one duct, while gas from cylinders two and three flows through the other. This prevents individual cylinders from negatively influencing each other in the exhaust gas cycle, reducing exhaust back pressure and improving gas exchange. The result is increased power output due to improved cylinder charging, greater torque at lower RPMs, and immediate throttle response.
Further engine enhancements include new pistons, an optimized air intake and charge air cooling system, and extensive software optimizations. Features retained from previous iterations 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. The eight-cylinder engine delivers thrilling power and acceleration across the rev range while maintaining impressive efficiency for reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
AMG Cylinder Management: Enhanced Efficiency
To maximize fuel efficiency, Mercedes-AMG has incorporated AMG Cylinder Management, a cylinder deactivation system, into the V8 engine. This technology, previously proven in the SLK55, achieves remarkably low fuel consumption and emission levels and is now, for the first time, applied to a turbocharged engine from the high-performance AMG brand. In partial-load operation within the “Comfort” transmission mode, cylinders two, three, five, and eight are deactivated, significantly reducing fuel consumption.
When the driver selects the “Comfort” transmission mode, cylinder deactivation operates across a broad engine speed range, from 1,000 to 3,250 rpm. The AMG main menu in the instrument cluster informs the driver when the cylinder deactivation system is active and whether the engine is running in partial or full-load mode. The transition between four and eight-cylinder operation is seamless and imperceptible, ensuring no compromise in passenger comfort.
Intelligent Valve Control: Seamless Cylinder Deactivation
This seamless transition is achieved through intelligent interaction between the high-performance engine management system and CAMTRONIC valve lift adjustment, a technology also used in similar configurations in four-cylinder engines. Eight dual actuators are involved in half-engine mode, operating axially sliding cam units on the intake and exhaust camshafts via a shift gate. Half-engine operation is achieved by closing the relevant intake and exhaust valves of cylinders two, three, five, and eight. This reduces load-change losses in the deactivated cylinders and increases the efficiency of the remaining four cylinders by shifting their operating point to higher loads.
AMG Performance 4MATIC+: Variable All-Wheel Drive System
The E63 S is exclusively equipped with the innovative AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system. This newly engineered, intelligent system combines the advantages of different drive configurations. Fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles ensures optimal traction right up to the physical limits. Drivers benefit from high driving stability and handling safety in all conditions, be it dry, wet, or snowy roads. The transition between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive is seamless, thanks to intelligent control integrated into the vehicle’s overall system architecture.
An electromechanically controlled coupling variably connects the permanently driven rear axle to the front axle. The optimal torque distribution is continuously calculated based on driving conditions and driver input. This enables the performance sedan to transition seamlessly from traction-focused all-wheel drive to purely rear-wheel drive. These transitions are smooth and based on a sophisticated control matrix. Beyond traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel-drive system also enhances longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration.
Drifting is still possible thanks to the fully variable torque distribution. Drift mode, standard on the E63 S, allows for pure rear-wheel drive fun. It is activated in the “Race” drive program using the shift paddles, provided ESP® is deactivated and the transmission is in manual mode. Once engaged, drift mode keeps the E63 S in rear-wheel drive until manually deactivated by the driver.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-Speed Sport Transmission: Quick Shifts and Efficiency
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed sport transmission is specifically tuned for the demands of the new E63 S, involving comprehensive hardware and software re-engineering.
Special software enables incredibly short shift times, rapid multiple downshifts, and a double-clutching function, delivering an emotionally engaging gear-shifting experience. A wet start-off clutch replaces the traditional torque converter, saving weight and optimizing responsiveness to accelerator pedal inputs, particularly during acceleration and load changes.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT: Personalized Driving Experience
The four AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs – “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport Plus,” and “Individual” – offer extensive customization of the E63 S’s driving characteristics. Key parameters such as engine response, transmission behavior, suspension settings, steering feel, ESP®, and all-wheel-drive system are modified. Independently of the DYNAMIC SELECT programs, the driver can directly engage manual mode by pressing the “M” button, allowing gearshifts exclusively via the steering wheel shift paddles. Suspension settings can also be individually selected.
“Comfort” mode provides a balanced driving experience with a comfort-oriented suspension and steering setup, fuel-efficient powertrain configuration, and early upshifts for smooth gear changes and a subdued engine sound. Cylinder deactivation, ECO start/stop function, and gliding mode are active. In gliding mode, when the driver releases the accelerator between 37 and 99 mph, the MCT transmission clutch opens, decoupling the engine from the powertrain. The electronics reduce engine speed to idle, minimizing motion resistance from compression and frictional forces.
“Sport” and “Sport Plus” DYNAMIC SELECT modes prioritize high vehicle dynamics, offering an agile accelerator pedal response, direct setup, and emotionally charged shift operations with quicker shift times and double-clutching on downshifts. The increased idle speed in “Sport Plus” enables particularly rapid starts and faster acceleration from a standstill. The E63 S also features a “RACE” drive program for maximum performance on closed circuits, optimizing all parameters for track driving.
RACESTART: Simplified Launch Control
The control logic for the RACESTART function (launch control) has been simplified. In Sport, Sport Plus, or RACE modes, the driver simply presses the brake pedal firmly with their left foot while fully depressing the accelerator with their right foot. The system automatically sets the optimal engine speed. Shift paddles can be used to adjust engine speed up or down based on conditions. Releasing the brake pedal launches the E63 S with optimal traction, achieving 0-60 mph in just 3.3 seconds.
Suspension: Engineered for Lateral and Longitudinal Dynamics
The exceptional agility and high cornering speeds of the new E63 S are due to the completely re-engineered AMG sport suspension. It is based on AIR BODY CONTROL fully supporting multi-chamber air suspension, providing high camber stability. This system balances vehicle dynamics and steering precision with a high level of comfort.
The four-link front axle design uses forged aluminum components for wishbones, strut rods, and spring links. The suspension strut supports the vehicle weight via the supporting link across from the body. Independent wheel control and wheel suspension parts, combined with the wider track, enable higher lateral acceleration and minimized torque steer.
The entirely re-engineered rear axle, also model-specific, is adapted for the performance sedan’s enhanced vehicle dynamics. The multi-link concept provides highly precise wheel control and increased stiffness. The AMG-specific rear axle carrier allows for the wider track, with wheel bearing contact surfaces moved outwards compared to the standard Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan. Other features include AMG-specific wheel carriers, elastokinematic tuning optimized for vehicle dynamics, and increased negative camber. Newly developed elastokinematics ensure E-Class comfort alongside high precision and vehicle dynamics.
The rear axle differential has a new mount to improve NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) characteristics. Additional bracing and welds further contribute to NVH reduction. An anti-roll bar made of tubular material, similar to the AMG GT R, reduces rear axle weight and is adapted to the increased vehicle dynamics.
The radial brake connection, derived from motorsport, enhances handling agility and precision by increasing rigidity against suspension vibrations and forces. Special rubber bushes on the axles and new elastokinematics improve camber stability by 30 percent compared to the previous E63 model.
Three-Chamber Air Suspension: Personalized Ride
The three-chamber air suspension system, with sporty spring and damper tuning and continuously adjustable damping, further enhances ride customization. It combines exemplary vehicle dynamics with excellent noise and vibration characteristics. The rigidity of the air springs is finely tuned by activating or deactivating individual air chambers, significantly improving both comfort and handling.
AMG engineers defined three spring tuning settings based on the selected drive program and driving conditions. During sudden load changes, fast cornering, hard acceleration, or heavy braking, the spring rate automatically stiffens on the front or rear axle, effectively reducing roll and pitch and stabilizing the sedan.
In “Comfort” mode, the suspension prioritizes ride comfort, effectively absorbing road irregularities for a smooth ride. In “Sport” mode, the E63 S handles more dynamically with reduced roll due to a firmer spring rate. “Sport Plus” mode further enhances agility and cornering ability with even stiffer front and rear axle suspension.
Furthermore, drivers can adjust the adaptive damping in three stages – “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” – to choose between relaxed long-distance comfort and maximum sportiness. Rebound and compression levels are independently adjusted, and the freely programmable characteristics map allows for a wide range between minimum and maximum damper force. This refined difference between comfortable and sporty settings is even more noticeable depending on driving conditions.
The complete package delivers: the AMG E63 S Sedan combines steering precision and top-tier longitudinal and lateral dynamics with maximum traction while enhancing ride comfort.
Rear Differential Lock: Optimal Traction, On and Off the Track
To improve traction and vehicle dynamics, the E63 S features an electronically controlled rear differential lock. Both differentials minimize slip on the inside wheel during cornering without braking system interventions. This allows drivers to accelerate out of corners earlier and with more power due to improved traction. The car remains more stable during high-speed braking, and the limited-slip differential also improves traction during acceleration. 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. For optimal cooling, the differential lock housing has additional cooling fins.
The three-stage ESP® system, with “ESP ON,” “ESP SPORT Handling Mode,” and “ESP OFF” settings, works seamlessly with the rear-axle limited-slip differential and AMG 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system, optimized for outstanding dynamics.
Dynamic Engine Mounts: Standard on E63 S
Uniquely in its segment, the E63 S is equipped with dynamic engine mounts. These mounts address the conflicting goals of a soft powertrain connection for comfort and a rigid connection for optimal vehicle dynamics. Dynamic mounts instantly and variably adjust stiffness based on driving conditions. This enhances vehicle precision during dynamic driving, resulting in more direct steering response and feedback. Cornering feels more precise, minimizing driver corrections due to reduced movement of major assemblies. On the racetrack, mount rigidity is maximized, further reducing inertia and improving lap times. Conversely, softer mounts noticeably enhance comfort on rough roads. Increased damping stabilizes the powertrain quickly on undulating surfaces.
AMG Sport Speed-Sensitive Steering: Direct and Responsive
The electromechanical speed-sensitive sport steering in the E63 S features a variable ratio and stands out with its AMG-specific rack-and-pinion ratio for precise feedback. Steering power assistance is variably adjusted in “Comfort,” “Sport,” or “Sport Plus” modes. These characteristics are automatically activated based on the selected DYNAMIC SELECT drive program or can be personalized in “Individual” mode. Minimal steering input is needed at low speeds, while solid straight-line stability is maintained at high speeds. The clearly defined center bearing and authentic feedback contribute to an optimal steering feel.
AMG High-Performance Braking System: Fade-Resistant Power
The large high-performance braking system provides reliable and rapid deceleration and is fade-resistant even under heavy loads. The E63 S features 15.4″ x 1.4″ compound brake discs on the front axle. The optional AMG Carbon Ceramic braking system upgrades to 15.8″ x 1.5″ discs at the front and 14.2″ x 1.3″ discs at the rear for even greater stopping power.
The three-stage ESP® allows for significantly higher vehicle dynamics and driving enjoyment in ESP® Sport Handling Mode and ESP® OFF settings. Specific traction logic remains active at all times: when a driven wheel loses traction, ESP® applies targeted braking for optimal power transfer to the road.
The three-stage ESP® offers additional safety and driving fun to suit various needs:
- ESP® ON: High safety level adapted to the car’s sporty character.
- ESP® Sport Handling Mode: Allows wider yaw angles before system intervention for a sportier driving style.
- ESP® OFF: System deactivated for sporty driving on closed circuits. ESP® reactivates temporarily during hard braking.
Reinforced Body Structure: Enhanced Rigidity
The new performance sedans feature a rigid body structure, forming the foundation for maximum vehicle dynamics, comfortable handling on rough roads, and a solid feeling of quality. Four additional struts reinforce the bodyshell: two front struts are even stiffer than in the E43, and the Mercedes-AMG E63 S exclusively gains two rear struts.
Interior Design: Sporty and Luxurious Cabin
The interior reinforces the dynamic character with numerous bespoke details. The performance sport steering wheel in black leather, ideal for sporty driving, features a flattened bottom section, Touch Control buttons, electroplated shift paddles, and a steering wheel bezel with the AMG logo.
Driver and front passenger are securely positioned in sport seats offering enhanced lateral support, even during spirited driving. Distinctive seat upholstery options include black nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber, nut brown nappa leather, or macchiato nappa leather. Door center panels complement the seat design. Optional AMG Performance seats with integrated head restraints are available. Aluminum trim elements with a unique pattern highlight the sporty ambiance.
In the E63 S, the interior is further refined with nappa leather covering 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.
The AMG-specific instrument cluster places key information directly in the driver’s line of sight. Dials with a checkered-flag design give the large, clear displays a sporty touch. Motorsport enthusiasts will appreciate the integrated RACETIMER system for recording lap times on closed tracks.
AMG TRACK PACE App: Analyze and Share Your Performance (Availability TBA)
Complementing the RACETIMER, Mercedes-AMG developed the new Mercedes me connect AMG TRACK PACE app. This app allows drivers to analyze and improve their track driving style and share their performance with other AMG drivers via social media or the AMG Private Lounge. The iPhone app connects to the in-car race app via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth®. The COMAND Online infotainment system transmits real-time vehicle data, including speed, gear, steering angle, time, position, and temperature, to the app. GoPro camera integration allows drivers to create interactive videos of their track experiences with overlaid performance data.
Intelligent Drive: Advanced Driver Assistance
The E63 S sedan offers all the connectivity, Intelligent Drive functions, and options that make the Mercedes-Benz E-Class the most intelligent business sedan. This includes semi-automated driving with DRIVE PILOT, assisting drivers in routine tasks like navigating heavy traffic.
Extensive Personalization Options
Owners can further personalize their E63 S with a wide range of options. The Night Package, attractive wheel choices, and carbon-fiber elements customize the exterior. Inside, the AMG Performance Steering Wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber and AMG Performance Seats enhance the sporty character. Carbon-fiber trim parts or matte silver glass-fiber elements complete the personalization possibilities.
E63 S “Edition 1”: Enhanced Exclusivity
Available for approximately one year after market launch, the E63 S “Edition 1” offers exceptional exclusivity and distinction. Featuring a designo Night Black Magno paint finish, dynamic stripes on the side sill panels emphasize the elongated side profile and the AMG E63 S sedan’s forward momentum. New AMG 20-inch forged wheels in matte black with high-gloss polished rim flanges and the Night package further enhance its unique appearance.
The interior of the “Edition 1” features AMG Performance seats in black nappa leather with yellow topstitching, creating a sporty ambiance. Color-matched yellow topstitching or accents are also found on the AMG Performance sport steering wheel, door armrests, center console, AMG floor mats, and the IWC-designed analogue clock. The sport steering wheel in black DINAMICA microfiber features “Edition 1” lettering and a black 12 o’clock marking. Carbon-fiber trim elements further accentuate the striking color and material contrasts.
World Premiere and Market Launch
The new performance sedan, in “Edition 1” guise, debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 16, 2016. US dealer launch was planned for summer 2017.
