Mercedes-Benz has had a packed year in India with numerous launches. Among them, the recently launched AMG C63 SE Performance comes as the brand’s third plug-in hybrid in the country.
As you’d expect for an AMG, we took it for a spin at its natural habitat – The Buddha International Circuit situated in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
Why? Well, all wanted to figure out if the transition from the iconic V8 to a four-cylinder hybrid alters the classic AMG experience. It is worth noting that the C63 SE is the most powerful four-pot car in the world.
Mercedes-AMG C 63 Se Performance: Design, Features and Engine
Now, before we speak about driving experience, let’s get the design, feature-package and hardware out of the way.
At first glance, the C63 SE Performance asserts itself as more than just a C-Class with a body kit.
The wide Pan-American grille, aggressive hood sculpting, and functional aero elements, like the hood vent, signal its intent.
Besides that, the F1 Edition adds exclusive touches like red accents on the grille, wheels, and interior stitching.
Inside, the AMG cabin greets you with a balance of sportiness with luxury.
The F1 Edition brings carbon fiber inserts, red accents, and performance seats with integrated headrests.
Moreover, features like seat ventilation, heating, and a mapped racing circuit interface add to its track-focused character.
The C63 SE Performance has ditched its iconic V8 typically associated with AMGs.
Instead, it packs a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 475 hp, paired with a rear-axle-mounted electric motor churning out 205 hp.
Together, they deliver an impressive combined output of 680 hp and 1,020 Nm of torque.
Despite being a hybrid, the electric motor isn’t designed to extend range. That said, it does offer a brief electric-only mode of about 13 km.
As for the use case on a track, its Formula 1-inspired battery discharges and recharges at lightning speed. Why?
Well, simply to make sure that an additional boost in power is always available at your right foot’s disposal whenever needed.
Mercedes-AMG C 63 Se Performance: Track Experience
On the track, the car delivers seamless integration between the petrol and electric power- trains, with virtually no lag off the line thanks to the electric turbocharger.
Acceleration is blistering clocking 0-100 kmph in 3.5 seconds, even with three passengers onboard.
Shed the extra weight, and it could likely achieve closer to 3.3 seconds.
The 4MATIC all-wheel drive system ensures phenomenal grip, while the boost function adds an extra punch for those crucial moments.
The C 63 is built for the track, and it shows.
It handles sharp corners and slaloms with agility, thanks in part to rear-axle steering, which enhances turn- in precision.
Even when pushed too hard into corners, the car remains composed and man- ageable.
For those seeking thrills, the race mode allows for controlled slides, while the drift mode takes sideways action to the next level.
Mercedes-AMG C 63 Se Performance: Verdict
At Rs 1.95 crore, ex-showroom, the C 63 SE Performance delivers everything you’d expect from an AMG.
It’s a faster, more capable car than its predecessor in almost every way.
However, it lacks the unmistakable aural drama of the old V8.
While the exhaust note is loud and racy, it can’t match the raw, intoxicating growl of a V8.
For purists, this might be a dealbreaker, but if you can look past it, the new C 63 offers a thrilling experience that’s hard to beat.
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