Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance (W206)

The all-new Mercedes-AMG C63 range, which is based on the W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, signals the beginning of the era of the subtler AMG machines because the newest AMG machines are no longer the monster machines of the past because, being built for the new normal, they have sacrificed its monstrous selves for the sake of subtler, more powerful forms. In short, they're no longer as loud as they used to be.

2023 Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance Estate

2023 Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance

Starting at an estimated 115K Euros plus additional costs, the all-new Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance, in sedan and estate forms, is no longer the C63 the world remembers because despite being a W206 C-Class on steroids, what's underneath is not what you call a treat because we live in the new normal and for this new model, electrification is a sin the new model has committed.

Although it looks similar to its lesser brother, the C43, with some minor alternations to its detailing to differentiate it from the lesser one, as well as the same C-Class interior that can be fitted with optional Performance Seats, the C63 S E Performance's powertrain is not a pleasant sight for speedo boys behind the wheel because, under the hood, the previous model's V8 engine has been thrown away sadly and replaced by the same 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine as the A45 but it's been added with the new electric drive unit, AMG High-Performance Battery, belt-driven starter-alternator, and electric exhaust-gas turbocharger, creating a P3 Hybrid layout that produces 680PS of power output and 1,020Nm of torque, more than the previous model it replaces.

Mated to an AMG Speedshift MCT 9G, the super saloon gone commando has a 0-100kph time of 3.4 seconds and with an optional extra, 280kph flat-out. 270kph if you're in the estate version.

Although the P3 Hybrid powertrain is deemed controversial for AMG fanatics, the C63 S E Performance drives like a sports car as expected. By playing around with the AMG Dynamic Select system with seven driving modes and a customizable Individual mode, you can experiment with various ways and means to get yourself addicted to this car. Running on Electric mode, it's good for up to 125kph of top speed while the Battery Hold mode keeps the battery state of charge constant. 

Plunging into Race mode, the C63 S E Performance is ready to unleash mayhem on the track. Taking advantage of its AMG Ride Control steel-spring suspension with Adaptive Damping System, three-stage variable steering, rear axle steering, ESP, and its AMG high-performance composite brake system, this 4WD executive car on steroids can dance despite the bulk of its PHEV powertrain. Although less noisy than its V8-powered predecessor, it can surely make a mess out of it.

While the PHEV powertrain is an absolute turn-off compared to the old V8-powered model, the all-new C63 S E Performance is like an upper-class sewer rodent pampered with style. Despite its quiet behavior, it can surely be an aggressive schizophrenic when the opportunity arises. The world's getting jealous about this high-performance PHEV super saloon right about now because, with such power despite its controversial powertrain, you can really kiss your ugly-looking BMW M3 goodbye.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG