2013 E 63 AMG unveiled

Following the recent facelift for regular Mercedes-Benz E-Class models, it was inevitable that the high performance AMG versions would be due an update too. And now, after a very short wait, the refreshed E 63 AMG Saloon and Estate have been revealed… but it’s not just the styling that has changed.

Power is up too, with the 5,461 cc V8 biturbo engine now developing 550 bhp (410 kW / 557 PS). That’s a 32 bhp (24 kW / 32 PS) increase on its predecessor, resulting in a slight reduction in the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time from 4.3 to 4.2 seconds. Top speed remains electronically-limited to 155 mph (250 km/h) though, while both average fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions are unaffected.

If that isn’t enough performance, AMG will be introducing the new S-Model as a replacement for the previous Performance Package option. Thanks partly to a higher turbo boost pressure, it boasts 576 bhp (430 kW / 585 PS) and 800 Nm (590 lb/ft) of torque, outputs that comfortably surpass those of the recently-launched Audi RS 6 Avant.

For most territories, the S-Model comes as standard with the 4Matic all-wheel drive system and a traction-enhancing differential lock on the rear axle. They allow the Saloon to hit 62 mph from rest in an astounding 3.6 seconds, although the top speed is still 155 mph. Right-hand drive markets including the UK, however, will have to make do with just rear-wheel drive plus the diff lock.

Visually the biggest tweaks have been made to the front end. As well as neater combined headlight units, it sports a new ‘twin blade’ radiator grille design and what AMG is calling an ‘A-wing’ across the front bumper. S-Model variants are further distinguished by their matt titanium grey 19” alloy wheels, red brake calipers, silver front splitter and gloss black ‘A-wing’.

The standard 2013 E 63 AMG arrives this April, followed by the S-Model in June. UK prices have yet to be announced.

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