2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Preview

Model Lineup
The new E63 AMG joins the existing Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineup, complementing the 6-cylinder E350 and 8-cylinder E550. Differentiating itself from the standard models, the E63 features unique exterior and interior treatments and options.

The exterior features fenders that have been widened by 17 millimeters, new “6.3 AMG” badges, and a new front apron with integrated LED driving lights. Special AMG-styled side skirts and a rear apron with a black diffuser panel complete the body upgrades. The hallmark of the AMG brand, the sport exhaust, has been finished with chrome-plated tailpipes.

The interior features high-grade leather upholstery available in three different colors. Twin AMG sport seats with improved lateral support greet front passengers, while the driver sits behind a special 4-spoke steering wheel with integrated shift paddles for the upgraded transmission. The center AMG selector has one-touch logic, and directly adjacent are the controls for the sport suspension, traction control and AMG driving modes.

Those customers seeking even higher levels of performance will want to add the AMG Performance package. This upgraded option includes lightweight, forged, 19-inch, AMG-design light alloy wheels with 255/35R19 tires in the front and 285/30R19 tires in the rear. The suspension is stiffened with AMG Performance spring rates, and a rear-axle locking differential is added. The steering wheel is replaced by an AMG 3-spoke unit, and the top speed is raised to 186 mph, according to Mercedes.

Hardware
The heart of any performance-tuned Mercedes-Benz model is the engine, and the E63 AMG makes no exception. Under the hood of this all-new 2010 model is a tuned 6.3-liter V-8 rated at 518 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. A new AMG SpeedShift MCT 7-speed sport automatic transmission sends power to the rear wheels. According to the manufacturer, the E63 AMG will sprint to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds with an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph.

Standard on the E63 AMG is a newly developed AMG Ride Control sport suspension that features electronically-controlled damping, offering high-performance handling on the track, yet civilized comfort on the road. At the touch of a button, the driver is able to choose between the three suspension modes of Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus.

To offer increased road feel and a better response, the steering system is reconfigured to be more direct than in the regular models. The standard wheels are 18-inch light-alloy. Hidden beneath their spokes are massive internally-ventilated and cross-drilled brakes at all four corners.