Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance First Drive

The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance is a new chapter in the iconic C 63 lineup. It combines the raw power and performance AMG is known for with hybrid technology, creating an exhilarating driving experience with a twist of eco-consciousness. Here’s an overview of what it’s like from a first-drive perspective:

Powertrain & Performance:
The C 63 S E Performance represents a shift away from the previous V8 engine and embraces a hybrid setup that combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor. This powertrain delivers a staggering 670 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful 4-cylinder engines on the market. The hybrid system uses a battery to power the electric motor on the rear axle, making it an all-wheel-drive (AWD) car, unlike its rear-wheel-drive predecessors.

In terms of acceleration, the C 63 S E Performance is no slouch. It can go from 0-60 mph in about 3.4 seconds, putting it in the supercar territory in terms of acceleration. The combination of electric torque and the turbocharged engine provides an instant surge of power, and the car feels effortlessly quick, especially when launching off the line.

The integration of the electric motor allows for an almost silent, smooth cruising experience at lower speeds, which can be a nice contrast when you want to enjoy some peaceful driving in city traffic. But, once you push the pedal, the powertrain unleashes a raw, guttural growl that makes it clear this is still an AMG.

Handling & Dynamics:
As you’d expect from AMG, the C 63 S E Performance’s handling is razor-sharp. With AMG’s adaptive suspension and the rear electric motor providing additional torque to the rear wheels, it feels incredibly balanced and agile through tight corners and twisty roads. The car’s responsiveness is impressive, with minimal body roll, and you can feel the rear axle’s power as it pushes the car forward during hard acceleration.

The hybrid setup also means the car has a lower center of gravity, which improves handling dynamics, especially in high-performance situations. The steering is precise, offering a good amount of feedback, and the brakes are highly responsive, with massive carbon-ceramic brake options available to handle the immense power.

Additionally, the AMG Ride Control suspension allows you to toggle between comfort and sportier settings, providing a versatile ride that can range from relatively soft to brutally firm when you’re on a track or carving through country roads.

Interior & Technology:
Inside, the C 63 S E Performance boasts a luxurious and tech-laden interior. The cockpit is modern, with a high-resolution digital display for the instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen. The MBUX infotainment system is intuitive, with features like voice control and a navigation system that adapts to your driving behavior.

Seats are sporty but comfortable, with AMG-specific trim and finishes, and the cabin has a tech-forward feel without being overwhelming. The interior also maintains Mercedes’ signature refinement, with high-quality materials used throughout.

However, this is still a compact performance sedan, so while it’s comfortable for long drives, it’s not as spacious as larger AMG sedans like the E 63 S.

Hybrid Tech & Efficiency:
One of the standout features of the C 63 S E Performance is its hybrid nature. The electric motor can propel the car at lower speeds and give you short bursts of extra power, while the combustion engine kicks in for more sustained performance. You can drive in electric-only mode for shorter trips (thanks to a 13.1 kWh battery), though the range is limited compared to dedicated EVs. In normal driving conditions, the hybrid system balances power efficiently, with the car offering impressive fuel efficiency for a performance vehicle of this caliber.

There’s also the Battery Energy Recovery system, which captures braking energy and feeds it back into the battery, improving efficiency. It’s a clever way to optimize performance and range without sacrificing the pure AMG driving experience.

Driving Modes & Customization:
As is typical with AMG vehicles, the C 63 S E Performance offers multiple driving modes, allowing you to fine-tune the car’s behavior. Comfort Mode allows for relaxed, everyday driving, while Sport and Sport+ Modes increase responsiveness, throttle sensitivity, and reduce ride comfort for performance driving. There’s also an Individual Mode, where you can customize the car’s settings to your liking.-