Mercedes-AMG C63 S: Power, Performance & Practicality

The Understated Beast: Unpacking the 2018 Mercedes-AMG C63 S Sedan

At first glance, the 2018 Mercedes-AMG C63 S sedan might not scream for attention like some of its more ostentatiously styled rivals. Mercedes-AMG, in its wisdom, has opted for a more subtle approach with its most potent C-Class offering. This isn't a car designed to attract every passing glance; rather, it's a machine crafted for the discerning driver, a statement of intent for those who know what lies beneath the refined exterior. It's a philosophy that resonates deeply with enthusiasts, a quiet confidence that speaks volumes.

While the exterior might be understated, the heart of this machine is anything but. The 2018 Mercedes-AMG C63 S packs a formidable punch, boasting a 503-horsepower V8 biturbo engine that delivers exhilarating performance. The chassis is engineered to remain composed even when pushed to its limits, offering copious amounts of grip. In its 'Comfort' mode, the C63 S transforms into a surprisingly well-appointed and refined daily driver, making it a versatile option for those who demand both performance and practicality.

AMG Performance: A Deep Dive into the Heart of the C63 S

The true magic of the C63 S lies within its meticulously engineered powertrain. At its core is a hand-built and signed 4.0-litre biturbo V8 AMG engine. Unlike many modern performance cars, AMG has kept the engine bay relatively free of plastic covers, allowing you to plainly see the 'hot inside V' turbochargers nestled between the cylinder banks. While the standard C63 churns out a respectable 469 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, the C63 S variant receives a performance massage, boosting its output to a staggering 503 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque.

This immense power is channelled to the rear wheels via a 7-speed multi-clutch automatic transmission (MCT). This sophisticated gearbox operates much like a conventional automatic but replaces the traditional torque converter with a wet startup clutch. This design choice enhances performance and efficiency, enabling lightning-fast 0.1-second upshifts and rev-matched downshifts in manual mode. It also allows for harder launches and can handle more torque than many dual-clutch transmissions.

The driver is given complete control over the C63 S's dynamic character through the Dynamic Select wheel on the centre console. This intuitive system allows you to toggle between 'Comfort', 'Sport', 'Sport+', and 'Race' modes. Each setting meticulously adjusts the throttle response, transmission programming, suspension damper firmness, and traction control systems, tailoring the car's behaviour to your driving preferences. For those who crave an even more visceral experience, the optional AMG Performance exhaust system amplifies the engine's roar and becomes less restrictive in the 'Sport' and 'Race' modes. Furthermore, individual systems can be fine-tuned using dedicated buttons on the centre console, offering a truly bespoke driving experience.

Dynamic Driving Modes Explained

The C63 S offers a spectrum of driving experiences, meticulously curated by its Dynamic Select system:

• Comfort: Ideal for daily driving, this mode softens the suspension, quiets the exhaust, and relaxes the transmission for a smooth and refined ride.
• Sport: Sharpens throttle response, quickens gear changes, and firms up the suspension for a more engaging driving experience.
• Sport+: Further enhances performance with even more aggressive throttle mapping, faster shifts, and a more track-focused suspension setup.
• Race: This mode unleashes the full potential of the C63 S, disabling most electronic aids for maximum performance and driver involvement.

Beneath its elegant skin, the C63 S boasts a suspension that is noticeably firmer than its standard C-Class counterparts. The wheel track is wider, enhancing stability during cornering, and it rides on wider, stickier tyres, providing exceptional levels of grip. These enhancements contribute to its remarkable composure and dynamic prowess.

Performance Figures: Numbers That Speak Volumes

The 2018 Mercedes-AMG C63 S can achieve 0-60 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds, with the standard C63 slightly behind at 4.0 seconds. Both models have a top speed capped at 180 mph, though the C63 is limited to 155 mph. Assisting drivers in achieving these blistering times is the 'Race Start' launch control system, which is remarkably easy to engage. Simply select 'Sport+' or 'Race' mode, pull both paddle shifters for a moment, apply the brake, floor the throttle, and release the brake pedal for an explosive start.

While 500-plus horsepower sent to the rear wheels on a wet, winding road might sound intimidating, the C63 S manages this power with an almost unnerving composure. It tackles speed with a business-like efficiency, offering immense grip, precise and communicative steering, and an unfaltering surge of power. The exhaust note is a deep, resonant roar, a far cry from the crackle and pop of some other V8s, but undeniably potent. It's a car that makes tackling a mountain road at well over the speed limit feel like just another day at the office. This is a serious car for serious drivers, a testament to AMG's engineering prowess.

However, the C63 S is not solely about unbridled aggression. It allows for moments of spirited fun, but its performance limits are so generous that it requires a deliberate effort, perhaps on a closed circuit, to provoke a loss of composure. To manage this immense power, AMG has equipped the sedan with substantial 14.2-inch performance disc brakes all around, with the C63 S receiving even larger 15.4-inch front stoppers, more than capable of handling the demands of spirited driving.

Comfort and Daily Usability: The Refined Side of AMG

Despite its formidable performance capabilities, the C63 S excels as a daily driver. When switched to 'Comfort' mode, the AMG Ride Control suspension adjusts to its softest setting, the optional AMG Performance exhaust quiets down, and the 7-speed automatic transmission relaxes. The V8 biturbo engine, while ferocious when unleashed, also demonstrates effortless athleticism on the open road. Cruising through city streets, the C63 S moves with a stately grace, its deep growl a constant reminder of the power lurking beneath the surface.

The cabin itself is a testament to Mercedes-Benz's commitment to luxury and comfort. The C63 S features a well-appointed interior with black Nappa leather trim, an AMG carbon-fibre dashboard, and striking silver metallic accents. The optional saddle brown quilted Nappa leather seats offer both support and luxury. While the exterior design is understated, the interior of the C63 S is designed to impress.

It's important to note that the C63 S is not a stripped-down race car. The cabin offers a level of comfort that is among the best in its class. While you might not find features like massage seats, Mercedes-Benz offers desirable options such as its ambient cabin lighting and fragrance systems. Practical creature comforts like hands-free trunk access with power closing and a premium Burmester audio system, which sounds as good as it looks, are also available.

The Stop-Start System Quandary

One minor quibble with the C63 S in daily driving is the stop-start system. While designed to improve fuel efficiency, its engagement with the MCT transmission can feel a tad sluggish. When lifting off the brake pedal, there's a noticeable pause before power is re-engaged. This is likely a calibration to ensure smooth transitions, but it can lead to an inconsistent accelerator pedal feel in urban driving. Fortunately, the system is easily deactivated with a single button press.

When driven in a more relaxed manner, the C63 S can achieve a respectable 20 mpg combined (18 city, 24 highway). These figures are competitive with rivals like the Alfa Romeo Giulia and BMW M3, which utilise smaller turbocharged V6 engines.

COMAND Cabin Technology: A Point of Contention

The C-Class platform does have one notable drawback: its infotainment system. The C63 S continues to utilise an older generation of Mercedes-Benz's COMAND infotainment system. This system suffers from an awkward, three-tier menu structure that can be confusing and poorly organised, even on the large 8.4-inch display. The COMAND touchpad controller also lacks a natural feel for many users.

While the voice command system is generally good, allowing for natural language input of addresses, and the onboard maps are crisp, the navigation's 'Dynamic Route Guidance' can sometimes lead drivers into traffic jams while trying to avoid highway congestion. This is not unique to Mercedes-Benz, as many OEM traffic software systems have similar quirks.

The most significant disappointment is the dated nature of this system when compared to the newer, more intuitive interfaces found in other Mercedes-Benz models, such as the S-Class and the upcoming MBUX system. The expectation is that a future mid-cycle upgrade or the next-generation C-Class will bring a much-needed technological overhaul.

Infotainment Choice: Navigation or Smartphone Integration?

A peculiar aspect of the C63 S's technology packaging is the inability to have both onboard navigation and smartphone integration (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay) simultaneously. Buyers must choose between the comprehensive navigation package (a $2,200 option) or smartphone connectivity ($300). For households with differing preferences, this presents an awkward choice. However, given the advancements in smartphone mirroring, the less expensive option might be the more practical choice for many.

Driver Assistance and Safety Systems: Performance Without Compromise

Crucially, the AMG C63 S does not compromise on safety technology. All the advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) available on the standard C-Class are still offered, including the AMG head-up display. The standard safety features are extensive, encompassing active LED headlamps with automatic high beams, driver-attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, a rear-view camera, crosswind assist, and pre-collision alert systems.

A $2,250 Driver Assistance Package bundles most of the key ADAS features, significantly enhancing the daily driving experience. This includes pedestrian-sensing forward collision alert with automatic braking, a rear-collision safety system, and lane-keeping assist. The blind-spot monitoring system is also enhanced with steering assist to help avoid collisions, and rear cross-traffic braking assist provides an added layer of safety when reversing.

The package also makes commuting more relaxed with adaptive cruise control that functions effectively in both highway driving and stop-and-go traffic, complete with low-speed steering assist. An additional $1,090 option adds a surround-view camera system and the Parktronic semi-autonomous parking assist, which can automatically steer the car into parallel parking spaces. While the interface for this system can be slightly unintuitive, it's a valuable addition for those who are less confident with parking or want to protect those stylish 19-inch AMG forged wheels.

The Verdict: A Near-Perfect Sports Sedan

The 2018 Mercedes-AMG C63 Sedan, with its 469 horsepower, starts at $66,100. The more potent C63 S Sedan, delivering 503 horsepower, begins at $73,700, before a $995 destination charge. With optional extras and packages, the as-tested price of our example reached $90,500.

If cutting-edge technology isn't your primary concern, the C63 S comes remarkably close to perfection. However, at this price point, a more impressive dashboard experience is a reasonable expectation. The C63 S is a potent and composed machine that also offers surprising comfort for daily commutes. Its understated exterior design is a significant plus for those who prefer subtlety over aggression. It's also a technologically smart car, capable of being equipped with advanced driver aids.

Were it not for the frustratingly dated dashboard technology and the occasionally awkward stop-start system, the C63 S would undoubtedly be a near-perfect sports sedan. Its main rivals include the BMW M3, which offers a slightly different, more nimble balance of performance and comfort, and the Cadillac ATS-V, a favoured recommendation for drivers prioritising lap times over commuter comfort. Newer contenders like the Alfa Romeo Giulia and even the Kia Stinger GT also offer compelling alternatives in this segment.

The C63 Coupe: A Stylish Evolution

For those seeking an even more dramatic aesthetic, the C63 Coupe presents a compelling proposition. While sharing much of its mechanical DNA with the sedan, the Coupe boasts a distinct design. The only exterior panels it shares with the sedan are the boot lid, door skins, and roof panel. The rear roofline is significantly lower, giving the Coupe a more aggressive stance, and the front and rear guards are widened to accommodate larger, staggered wheels and tyres.

This wider track and revised suspension setup contribute to a more reactive and engaging driving experience. The Coupe's rear tyres are wider than those on the sedan, allowing for a clearer understanding of the available grip. The 7-speed automatic transmission and the potent 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine remain, delivering a thrilling 0-100km/h time of 3.9 seconds and a governed top speed of 290km/h.

The C63 S Coupe commands a higher price point than its sedan sibling, reflecting its more dramatic styling and bespoke bodywork. While it makes concessions in rear-seat space and practicality compared to the sedan, it offers a heightened sense of occasion and a more focused driving dynamic. The interior, while sharing many elements with the sedan, is equally luxurious and performance-oriented, with supportive AMG sports seats and substantial alloy shift paddles.

Pricing and Features: The Australian Perspective

In Australia, Mercedes-Benz typically offers only the top-spec 'S' variant of the C63. This model comes extensively equipped, with a relatively short options list. Standard features include automatic belt feeders, auto-dimming mirrors, premium wood and alloy trim, satellite navigation, digital radio, the Dynamic Select switch, electric and heated front seats with memory, and keyless entry. The C63 S Coupe retailed for approximately $162,400 in Australia, representing a premium over the sedan, despite sharing most mechanical components and having a slightly heavier kerb weight.

Options are limited, with no-cost wheel choices and a $9,000 option for carbon-ceramic front brakes. The limited-edition 'Edition 1' pack further enhances the Coupe with sportier seats, a more aggressive bodykit, and the aforementioned ceramic brakes for an additional $10,500.

Engine Evolution: From 6.2L to 4.0L Biturbo

The '63' designation in the C63's name historically referred to its 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine. This legendary powerplant, known for its brute force and evocative sound, produced 336kW and 600Nm of torque. However, evolving emissions regulations necessitated a change. The current 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, shared with the AMG GT sports car, delivers even more power (375kW) and torque (700Nm), while managing to retain a surprisingly evocative exhaust note, despite the presence of noise-damping turbochargers. The linearity of its power and torque delivery is remarkable, with substantial thrust available from just 2000rpm right up to 6250rpm.

Fuel Consumption: Performance Meets Efficiency

Despite its prodigious output, the C63 can be surprisingly frugal when driven gently. Mercedes-AMG claims an official combined cycle fuel consumption of 8.7 litres per 100km. However, real-world testing, particularly with spirited driving, typically yields figures closer to 12 litres per 100km.

Ownership and Maintenance

Mercedes-Benz typically offers a three-year capped service program for the C63, with annual service costs generally not exceeding $1,382 for the second and third-year services. A three-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty provides peace of mind for owners.

In summary, the Mercedes-AMG C63 S represents a remarkable blend of performance, luxury, and everyday usability. While the infotainment system might be a point of contention for some, its underlying engineering, potent V8 engine, and dynamic capabilities make it a truly special machine for discerning drivers.

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