Mercedes-AMG C63 revealed

Mercedes has revealed the new Mercedes-AMG C63. The performance model in the C-class line-up is powered by the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, in two states of tune. This engine also powers the recently unveiled Mercedes-AMG GT. The C63 also adopts a similar naming convention, dropping the 'Benz' in favour of the new Mercedes-AMG badge.

Tech data puts the maximum power for the Mercedes-AMG C63 at 469bhp at 5500-6250rpm and maximum torque at 66.2kgm at 1750-4500rpm. Fuel consumption is claimed to be 32 percent down compared to the naturally aspirated V8-engined C63 it replaces. It is claimed that the Mercedes-AMG C63 is capable of going from 0-100kph in 4.2 seconds and has a limited top speed of 250kph.

An uprated version, the Mercedes-AMG C63 S, is also available and produces 503bhp and 71.3kgm.

An AMG Speedshift seven-speed sports transmission sends the power to the rear wheels. The car also features speed-sensitive sports steering and AMG Ride Control sports suspension, which has three-stage adjustable damping. Braking is via internally ventilated and perforated brake discs, 360mm x 36mm at the front and 330mm x 26mm at the rear. The Mercedes-AMG C63 has a three-stage electronic stability program.

The performance makeover from AMG adds bespoke AMG front and rear aprons, radiator grille, bonnet, side skirts and four-pipe sports exhaust to the exterior of the C-class. The car rides on 18-inch light-alloy wheels and 245/40 R18 tyres on the front and 265/40 R18 rubber on the rear, and LED high-performance headlamps complete the package.

Among the cabin highlights are the AMG Dynamic Select switch, which is used to select driving modes, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual, an AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather in a black three-spoke design, AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs and sports seats with improved lateral support and AMG-specific seat fluting. The instrument cluster has a large multifunction TFT display and a race timer, while a head-up display is an option.

The S version adds to the exterior package with extras including a rear apron with three diffuser fins, a bespoke front apron and an uprated exhaust system with two chromed twin tailpipes.

The Dynamic Select switch adds an extra driving mode, Race, and the AMG rear axle features an electronically controlled locking differential. The front axle gets independent steering knuckles, wheel bearings and AMG-specific elastokinematics. A high-performance composite brake system features 390mm composite brake discs at the front and one-piece brake discs with a diameter of 360mm at the rear axle, as well as brake calipers in red with black AMG lettering. The seven-speed sports transmission is equipped with a manual mode and a race start function, and dynamic engine mounts also feature. The Ride Control sports suspension has three-stage adaptive variable damping.

The Mercedes-AMG C63 is likely to go on sale internationally at the start of 2015. The sedan will be followed by coupé, estate and convertible versions which are planned to join the range before the end of 2016.