The new Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG fulfils its role as the powerful, top-of-the-line E-Class model with effortless superiority. The exterior design conveys presence, precision and typical Mercedes dynamism. Functional sportiness, top quality and consummate business class comfort combine in the interior. In short: it comes across as sporty without being showy.
Dominant, masculine, dynamic – take a look at the new E 63 AMG and you instantly get a sense of these three attributes. The distinctive wings immediately catch the eye in the front section of the high-performance saloon. They are 17 millimetres wider on each side to accommodate the new front axle with its larger track width and the 255/40 front tyres.
The striking AMG front apron is an integral part of the characteristic AMG bodystyling. A central air intake and two side apertures provide an efficient supply of fresh air to the cooling module placed behind. The side air vents in the front apron serve to expel the hot air from the oil coolers. The AMG-specific LED daytime driving lights are another eye-catching detail. In conjunction with the optional Intelligent Light System, the E 63 AMG is equipped with tinted bi-xenon main headlamps.
From the side, the eye is drawn to the 18 or 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels as well as the “6.3 AMG” lettering integrated stylishly into the wings; this lettering is testimony to the powerful eight-cylinder powerpack under the bonnet. The side sill panels pick up the sweeping line of the spoiler edges on the front apron, extending it through to the AMG rear apron – the same line also emphasises the saloon’s width: the two newly designed chrome-plated twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system, the characteristically black insert and the overlying light-catching contour provide further visual highlights on the muscular rear section.
Sporty and high-grade interior ambience
Luxurious quality, high-grade materials, consummate business class comfort combined with a noticeable degree of dynamism and sportiness – the interior of the E 63 AMG in a nutshell. Dedicated, newly developed electrically adjustable, heated AMG sports seats and AMG badges await the driver and front passenger. All the seats, armrests and door centre panels are trimmed in exquisite leather, the seat centre panels with perforated leather. Three different appointment colours are available: black, mocha brown/almond beige and reef grey/alpaca grey. The perfect finishing touch comes courtesy of the black ashwood trim.
The AMG sports steering wheel in a four-spoke design with a 385-millimetre rim is trimmed with perforated leather in the specially moulded grip areas. Gear selection can be performed manually by means of the AMG aluminium shift paddles with “up” and “down”.
AMG main menu and AMG DRIVE UNIT
Behind the steering wheel lies the equally new AMG instrument cluster with a 320 km/h speedometer scale and silver-coloured backplate. The five classic dial instruments come with a new look, red needles and all-new lettering. AMG lettering adorns the speedometer while “6.3 V8” lettering adds a special touch to the rev counter. The AMG main menu is integrated into the central display of the speedometer, which can be operated conveniently using the multifunction buttons on the AMG sports steering wheel. The three modes “Warm Up”, “Set Up” and “RACE” keep the driver well informed: “Warm Up” indicates the engine oil and coolant temperature, “Set Up” indicates the current ESP® mode, the suspension setting “Comfort”, “Sport” or “Sport Plus” and the transmission mode “C”, “S”, “S+” or “M”. In “RACE” the RACETIMER is ready; this allows the driver to record lap times on private racing circuits.
The AMG DRIVE UNIT, which is familiar from the SL 63 AMG, is angled towards the driver and enables individual settings to be selected for the MCT sports transmission, the ESP functions, the suspension set-up and the AMG drive modes. A completely new feature for the DRIVE UNIT comes in the shape of the AMG E-SELECT selector lever in the centre console. The driver can shift directly between R, N and D simply by nudging the lever, all thanks to drive-by-wire, Briefly pressing the P button is sufficient to activate the parking lock.
The wide range of standard equipment includes (selection):
Customers requiring even more sporty individuality are catered for by the AMG Performance Studio: the E 63 AMG can be dynamically enhanced even further ex factory, with the Performance package. This includes the following:
The new designo range for the E 63 AMG, which will be available from the end of the year, offers further individualisation options. The designo colour chart includes a total of ten eye-catching colours, including three new matt finishes: designo magno platinum, designo magno allanite grey and designo magno cashmere white. Nine different single-tone designo leather upholstery options and three designo trim elements are available in the interior.
Safety: “Intelligent” partner thanks to unique combination of assistance and protection systems
For more than 50 years, the E-Class Saloons and their predecessors have been the acknowledged trendsetters in the field of automotive safety. The new top-of-the-line E 63 AMG model continues this tradition with an unrivalled combination of the very latest assistance and protection systems whose concept and development are based on what actually happens during accidents.
The systems turn the E-Class into an “intelligent” partner that is able to see, feel, respond reflexively in dangerous situations and act autonomously to prevent accidents or mitigate their effects. With this concept the new E 63 AMG not only protects its own occupants, but also contributes greatly to the safety of other road users.
The new E-Class is the first car in the world to be equipped with headlamps which adapt to the traffic situation and respond automatically to provide the best possible road illumination in a given situation and avoid dazzling other road users. The optional Adaptive Highbeam Assist uses a camera on the windscreen to recognise oncoming traffic and vehicles in front and to control the headlamps so their beams do not reach the other vehicle. The range of the dipped headlamp beams can be extended from the current 65 to as much as 300 metres. If the road ahead is clear, the system performs a gentle transition to high beam. Mercedes-Benz offers this new system in a Light package that includes bi-xenon headlamps, the Intelligent Light System and LED daytime driving lights.
The Lane Tracking package for the E 63 AMG includes Blind Spot Assist familiar from the S-Class, and as a new development, Lane Keeping Assist which seeks to prevent the vehicle from leaving the road unintentionally. When the system recognises that the car is drifting from its lane, the driver is prompted to take countersteering action by three brief but unmistakable vibrations of the steering wheel. The images from the windscreen camera are also used by the new, optionally available Speed Limit Assist, which recognises speed limit signs as the car passes them, then displays the relevant speed limit in the speedometer.
Night View Assist Plus is now also available as an optional extra for the E 63 AMG. Mercedes-Benz has improved this system with a special pedestrian detection function: as soon as Night View Assist Plus recognises pedestrians ahead of the car, they are highlighted in the onboard display to provide a greatly enhanced warning effect.
Detection of drowsiness based on 70 parameters as standard
Thanks to an innovative technology, the new E 63 AMG is very sensitive to its driver’s attention level, and warns him or her of drowsiness in good time. This new ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system, which is standard equipment, is equipped with highly sensitive sensors that continuously monitor more than 70 different parameters. Observing the driver’s steering behaviour has proved to be a particularly strong indicator: several years of practical research by Mercedes engineers have shown that drowsy drivers make minor steering errors which they often correct very rapidly in characteristic ways. These corrections are recognised by a highly sensitive steering angle sensor.
Automatic emergency braking when a collision is imminent
The well-proven, radar-based assistance systems from the S-Class are now also optionally available to E-Class customers. An enhanced long-range radar sensor now has a range of 200 metres (previously 150 metres), and is able to monitor the mid-distance so that dynamic events such as a vehicle ahead suddenly pulling out to overtake can be detected even more effectively. The two wide-angle short-range radar sensors, which have a range of around 30 metres, continue to be included in the system.
The radar-supported systems are able to assist the driver with emergency braking. Their sensors are linked to the BAS PLUS system, which automatically calculates the braking pressure to prevent a collision in critical situations. The driver is given an audible and visual warning at the same time. When the brake pedal is pressed, the system immediately provides the calculated level of braking assistance.
If the driver fails to respond to the warnings, the radar system first initiates partial braking action. As a second stage, if there is still no driver response and a collision is unavoidable, emergency braking is initiated. This can reduce the severity of an impact considerably as the system can be regarded as a kind of “electronic crumple zone”.
Seven airbags and PRE-SAFE® as standard
During the course of its development, the new E-Class was subjected to more than 150 high-speed crash tests. The crumple zone principle invented by Mercedes safety pioneer Béla Barényi has been continuously honed by the engineers in Sindelfingen. The front-end deformation zone of the E-Class acts on four independent levels, and is even more effective than before. The increased use of extra-high-strength steel alloys also helps to ensure that the bodyshell is able to withstand high impact forces. Around 72 percent of all the body panels are made from these high-tech steels – yet another unrivalled figure in passenger car development.
With seven airbags as standard, belt tensioners, belt force limiters, crash-responsive head restraints and ISOFIX child seat attachments, the E 63 AMG has even more extensive safety features than the preceding model. Another standard feature is the unrivalled anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®. In potentially hazardous situations this reflexively activates precautionary protective measures for the vehicle occupants, so that the seat belts and airbags are able to fulfil their protective function to the full during an impact.
High speed in South Africa, high-temperature test in Arizona, cold shock in the Arctic Circle, chassis and suspension testing on the Nürburgring Nordschleife (North Loop) – the development phases for the new Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG were as diversified as they were unforgiving. Over a period of 19 months and a distance of 1.25 million test kilometres, the new-generation dynamic sports saloon offering everyday practicality was made ready for series production – and ambitious targets were achieved in terms of efficiency.
Before the first disguised test vehicles rolled through the factory gates at Affalterbach, the concept phase had to be completed. The purpose of the packaging tests which commenced in November 2005 was to test the entire car for functioning and feasibility. Whether it was the suspension tuning, radiator and cooler efficiency, the airflow through the engine compartment or the durability of all the components – everything had to be analysed in advance by the AMG experts using a computer-based digital prototype (DPT). At the same time, the first engines and transmissions had to prove their performance capability and durability on various test rigs. Permanent stress in “accelerated” tests: full throttle from a standstill at a simulated 30 degrees C below zero, racetrack profiles with a high proportion of driving under full load and stop-and-go traffic in the city at 45 degrees C in the shade. Only once the precisely predefined development stages had been negotiated was the coveted go-ahead given.
At the same time, inconspicuous E 63 AMG models from the current W 211 series were on the road as component carriers or “mules”. Equipped with numerous components from the successor model – such as the 6.3-litre V8 engine, SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and RIDE CONTROL sports suspension – they help ensure effective testing of the new technologies before the new models (in-house code W 212) are even available. State-of-the-art measuring techniques provide the AMG engineers with invaluable data, with the focus on the temperatures of the coolant, transmission fluid and brake discs as well as the lap times on the handling course at the test track in Idiada, Spain and at the Nürburgring Nordschleife (North Loop), for example.
Concept approval in autumn 2007 signals the start for the “real” prototypes
In this preliminary stage, the specialist departments define every aspect of the new E 63 AMG: bit by bit, they narrow down the choice of axle kinematics, radiator and cooler dimensions, springing and damping rates, and tyre compounds for further testing – not forgetting the crucial interaction between the different control units for the engine, transmission and dynamic handling control systems as well as their respective software versions. Following this concept approval, granted in autumn 2007, the first “real” AMG prototypes of the E 63 AMG were built – signalling the start of the extensive, standardised AMG development and testing programme.
This is when things get really serious for the 20 disguised test vehicles: tests in all of the world’s climatic regions, from 85 metres below sea level in Death Valley in the US right up to Pikes Peak at an altitude of over 4400 metres. And from a bone-chilling minus 40 degrees in Swedish Lapland to plus 40 degrees in Arizona, USA. “We deliberately go to the extremes. It greatly helps us to save time and deal with the various aspects efficiently,” says Tobias Moers, Head of Overall Vehicle Development at Mercedes-AMG.
AMG-specific test routes for loads that take it to the limit and beyond
It is simply not enough to consider the individual criteria such as heat, altitude and driving dynamics in isolation. It’s rather a question of finding test routes that offer an opportunity to depict a combination of these three parameters. “We therefore take it to the limit and beyond, subjecting the car to far more load than any AMG customer ever will. And the new E 63 AMG has to overcome these tortures without a murmur of discontent,” reports Oliver Wiech, Head of Overall E-Class Development.
High-speed test runs on a country road in South Africa, stretching for several miles and as straight as a die, are just as much part of the test procedure as driving at full throttle for many hours on the circular course in Nardo, southern Italy or at the proving ground in Arizona, USA. The E 63 AMG prototypes have to prove that the oil and water temperatures can stay in the green and that all of the seals and hose clamps are capable of withstanding the immense loads and stresses. The toughest test of all is saved for last: here the saloon has to race across the proving ground at top speed in temperatures of some 45 degrees plus before going straight into a garage where there is no draught and no wind – the engine’s only relief being provided by the fan motor. Highly-sensitive electronic measuring systems with up to 500 measuring points per vehicle reveal even the most minor problems, which the AMG experts are able to pinpoint and put right immediately.
The high-temperature tests in Death Valley, USA are similarly extreme – albeit far less spectacular at first glance. Here, too, the summer temperatures approach the magical 50-degree mark, but slow cruising rather than hurtling at top speed is the order of the day here. Oliver Wiech: “We drive at an average of 35 km/h with maximum payload, climbing a steady ascent to the Daylight Pass – in the blazing sunshine and with a tarmac temperature of 80 degrees. The route is only 20 kilometres long, but there is no shade. Because the car is travelling so slowly, hardly any air flows through the radiator and engine compartment.” No question about it: if a new high-tech performance car such as the E 63 AMG passes this test, it can also survive the daily stress of stop-and-go traffic in Shanghai or Dubai.
Vast know-how and wealth of precision engineering ensure low fuel consumption figures
But it is not all about extreme loads. Achieving the ambitious fuel-consumption targets also requires the developers’ full concentration – as explained by Friedrich Eichler, who is in overall charge of engine and powertrain development: “To achieve an NEDC consumption figure of 12.6 litres per 100 kilometres, we put in a great deal of work in two areas: alternator management and transmission control.” The system for recuperating braking energy when the vehicle is decelerating – being used at AMG for the first time – had to be tested and verified using every conceivable speed and drive profile. As did the new C (Controlled Efficiency) mode for the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission: “The deliberately early upshifts and low engine speeds play a key role in reducing fuel consumption,” adds Eichler. Here it was a question of perfectly harmonising the AMG seven-speed sports transmission – equipped with a wet start-up clutch and four modes (C, S, S+ and M) – with the powerplant’s response and vibration characteristics. A key part of this set-up involves ensuring that the dynamic power delivery of the AMG V8 engine developing 386 kW/525 hp and a torque of 630 Nm is provided at lightning speed when requested by the driver – a challenge which can only be overcome with vast know-how and a wealth of precision engineering, not to mention many simultaneous tests on public roads, test tracks and test rigs.
The brake tests on the Grossglockner Alpine pass road in Austria are a true test of endurance for the AMG high-performance braking system with internally ventilated discs all round and composite technology tested on the racetrack on the front axle. In contrast to the tests on the high-speed circuits, where the saloon is braked to a standstill from 250 km/h on countless occasions to test absolute performance, the focus here falls on a different aspect: fading. Loaded up to their permissible GVW, the E 63 AMG prototypes are sent from an altitude of just below 2600 metres through numerous hairpin bends down into the valley lying at 1151 metres. Meanwhile, the MCT sports transmission is simply idling, providing no engine braking whatsoever. As if this weren’t enough, the test drivers also apply the brakes lightly between the switchbacks to generate additional heat – all of which places relentless thermal load on the brake discs, callipers, pads and fluid. What’s more, the low speed prevents effective cooling of all the components. All the brake tests are carried out with the AMG high-performance braking system as well as with the new ceramic braking system.
Nordschleife proves the ultimate test for man and machine
The series of tests on the notorious Nürburgring Nordschleife (North Loop) – considered to be the world’s toughest racing circuit – is equally extreme. Measuring 20.8 kilometres in length, the “big dipper” with its 73 bends stretches the E 63 AMG and its test drivers to the very limit. Every kilometre covered on the Nordschleife is equivalent to around seven kilometres on a normal road – the ultimate “accelerated” test for every new AMG model. This is where all the people who matter can be found: the suspension and tyre specialists, the handling dynamics experts, the transmission gurus and the team responsible for overall vehicle development. “If our 3-stage ESP® works here, it will work on any road in the world,” laughs Tobias Moers, who gives his personal approval for every new AMG high-performance vehicle on the Nordschleife. Without exception.
Mercedes-AMG also runs its own test centre in the Eifel region to carry out its extensive development work: workshops, offices and test facilities devoted to customised development work occupy some 700 m2, all within earshot of the Nürburgring.
The tests in the wind tunnel are just as important as the test drives: here it is not just a question of simulating all routes and climatic conditions. The rapid change from hot to cold is of great assistance to the development engineers in their quest to take the vehicle and its components to the limit. Whether it be temperature, humidity, the angle of solar radiation or the airflow velocity – a state-of-the-art wind tunnel is an indispensable tool for every AMG vehicle.
Permanent exchange of information with AMG headquarters in Affalterbach
Testing, analysing, optimising – it all comes together at AMG headquarters, located at number 1 Daimlerstrasse in the Swabian town of Affalterbach. It is in this small town with a population of around 4600, situated to the north of Stuttgart in an idyllic location between fruit plantations and vineyards, that the development engineers meet up to discuss the topics raised and e-mailed in by colleagues around the globe. In this way, new parts and components can be sent from Affalterbach to Arjeplog by overnight express. And new software updates can be sent to Denver, USA via the internet.
“The precisely defined development processes at Mercedes-AMG ensure the hundred-percent quality standard. We owe our discerning customers this much. This is the only way the new E 63 AMG can achieve that which everyone has ultimately been working towards: overall vehicle approval,” says Volker Mornhinweg, Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The major test stages at a glance:
The extensive programme of vehicle development is supplemented by an endurance test which simulates an entire vehicle lifetime under the toughest of conditions in just a short time. The aim is to ensure the necessary degree of maturity before vehicle production can commence at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen.
The endurance testing at a glance:
All the components and systems are tested together in everyday operation. Loaded up to their permitted gross vehicle weight, the test cars are put through a precisely defined test programme on country roads, on motorways and in city traffic.
In this case, the developers focus on the durability of the chassis and suspension components, the entire bodyshell and the integral subframe on which the front axle, steering and engine are mounted. The test cars are loaded up to their permitted gross vehicle weight.
Testing of the entire vehicle, focussing on the powertrain, chassis and suspension. Special features of the AMG programme include 10,000 kilometres on the Nürburgring Nordschleife (North Loop) and 10,000 kilometres in city traffic.
Extreme acceleration and braking manoeuvres with a high proportion of full-load operation, making extreme demands on the cooling, fuel-delivery and braking systems.
Corrosion testing of the entire vehicle simulates the toughest dynamic and climatic environmental influences.
All-inclusive verification of the degree of development and production maturity.
These tests are supplemented by extensive crash simulations and real crash tests to provide the necessary evidence for country-specific certifications without which no registration would be possible.
If you’re in the market for the recently introduced Mercedes E63 AMG, the company has just alerted us they’ve launched a new web special dedicated to the model. Borrowing from the success noted by a number of adult websites, the E63 AMG web special centers around a university theme (in this case, the E63 AMG University), with visitors having the option to view galleries, technical information and yes, take a test about the model. Unfortunately, one feature typically found on university websites that isn’t available in E63 U is a 24-hour all-access spy-cam into the dorms, but then again, watching two E63’s shower together isn’t really that exciting anyway.
Aside from the aforementioned info, there’s not much else. There are a few other sections of the site that will apparently launch in June entitled “School of Design” and “School of Technology”; as of now, however, both are off limits.
The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine in the new E 63 AMG develops an output of 386 kW/525 hp and a torque of 630 newton metres, matching the outstanding figures for the SL 63 AMG. The high-performance roadster has also donated its AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission to the new model. This transmission dispenses with a conventional torque converter and uses a compact, wet start-up clutch. In conjunction with the four individual driving modes, the double-declutching and RACESTART functions, the resulting direct connection to the powertrain allows an extremely emotional and highly dynamic driving experience.
The drive unit is unique in this segment, and ensures decidedly sporty performance figures: the E 63 AMG accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). The fast-revving, naturally aspirated engine with a displacement of 6208 cc impresses with its agile responsiveness, muscular power delivery and great flexibility. The newly composed AMG V8 sound is a thrilling accompaniment for mile after mile, while the smooth-running engine guarantees typical Mercedes long-distance comfort. A newly designed water cooling system ensures maximum endurance even under the enormous dynamic stresses of the racetrack.
Fuel consumption cut by almost twelve percent
Despite 8 kW/11 hp of additional output versus the preceding model, the fuel consumption of the new E 63 AMG has been significantly reduced: at 12.6 litres of super-premium grade petrol per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined consumption, provisional figure), the fuel consumption of the E 63 AMGis almost twelve percent lower than before, and leads the field among sports saloons developing more than 377 kW/500 hp. This progress has been made possible by a package of efficiency-enhancing measures. These include on-demand delivery of fuel and generator management with recuperation of braking energy on the overrun, both of which are standard in the new E 63 AMG. In-engine friction is also reduced by the AMG-exclusive twin-wire arc spray coating process used on the cylinder walls.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission also makes a decisive contribution to fuel economy: a wet start-up clutch running in an oil bath replaces the previous torque converter. This unit responds extremely rapidly, dynamically and without the losses typical of a torque converter transmission thanks to its low rotational inertia. The transmission is equipped with four driving modes: “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) and “M” (Manual), which can be selected using a rotary electronic switch in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Partial suppression of individual cylinders by interrupting ignition and injection during gearshifts under full load leads to considerably faster shift times. In M mode the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission allows gearshifts to be performed in 100 milliseconds.
In the even more fuel-efficient driving mode Controlled Efficiency, the transmission shifts the gears decidedly smoothly, and the transmission control unit is programmed to perform early upshifts to keep engine speeds as low as possible. At the same time, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission meets the most demanding requirements where driving dynamics are concerned: fast, spontaneous multiple downshifts ensure first-class agility in conjunction with the automatic double-declutching and RACE START functions: this enables the E 63 AMG driver to call on the maximum acceleration potential automatically.
Electronically controlled damping system and a new front axle
Sporty or more comfort-oriented? The driver of the new Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG is not obliged to accept any compromises in this respect. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension copes equally well with the agile manoeuvres of the racetrack and more comfortable, sedate driving. High performance and typical Mercedes long-distance comfort go together as an extraordinary synthesis in the E 63 AMG. This is made possible by the newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension. While new steel spring struts are used on the front axle, the rear suspension features AMG-specific air springs. The advantage of this solution, which is exclusive to AMG, is that the front steel spring struts ensure more sensitive responses while the rear air struts with their automatic level control system keep the vehicle at a constant height irrespective of the load.
A new, electronically controlled damping system automatically varies the damping characteristics according to the driving situation, reducing the roll angle of the body. The result is instant adjustment to provide the best possible ride comfort together with the greatest possible agility. In addition the driver is able to choose between the three suspension modes of Comfort, Sport and Sport plus at the touch of a button. The E 63 AMG is also equipped with a newly developed, dedicated front axle with a 56-millimetre wider track, a tubular stabiliser, new control arms, new wheel bearings, new elastokinematics and new wheel location for more negative camber – thereby providing more grip when taking bends at speed. The AMG-specific kinematics also ensure significantly more precision. This is a highly sophisticated axle design whose principle has already proved its worth in the C 63 AMG. The rear axle likewise has more negative camber, optimised elastokinematics and a new subframe mounting for greater stability at the physical limits.
Newly developed power steering and individual 3-stage ESP®
For more direct responsiveness, the speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering is also a new development. The steering ratio of 14 : 1 is 22 percent more direct than in the standard production models, while a more rigid steering column plus the reconfigured characteristic mapping of the speed-sensitive servo assistance ensure better steering precision and improved road contact.
The 3-stage ESP® familiar from the SL 63 AMG and C 63 AMG enables individual settings to be selected – with clear benefits in terms of driving pleasure combined with the same, high level of handling safety. The ESP® button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT allows the driver to choose between “ESP ON”, “ESP SPORT” and “ESP OFF” – with the currently active mode shown in the central display of the AMG instrument cluster. Perfect deceleration even when driving at high speed is ensured by the AMG high-performance braking system with 360-millimetre, internally ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round. Particularly resistant, motorsports-tested composite technology is used at the front axle. Outstanding grip is ensured by the 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels with a width of nine or 9.5 inches and mixed tyre sizes of 255/40 R 18 at the front and 285/35 R 18 at the rear.
Decidedly dynamic interior and exterior
The decidedly dynamic design of the new E 63 AMGis fully in keeping with the uncompromisingly sporty technology. The front aspect is characterised by 17‑millimetre wider wings bearing “6.3 AMG” lettering on each side, the new AMG front apron with large intake air apertures and the AMG-specific LED daytime driving lights. In conjunction with the optional Intelligent Light System, the E 63 AMG is equipped with tinted main headlamps. The striking visual presence is further enhanced by the AMG side skirts and AMG rear apron with a black diffuser insert. As a hallmark of the brand, the AMG sports exhaust system has two newly designed, chrome-plated twin tailpipes.
The newly designed interior of the E 63 AMG is an exciting blend of high-grade materials and functional sportiness. Exclusive features include the dedicated, electrically adjustable AMG sports seats with improved lateral support and the AMG sports steering wheel in a four-spoke design with AMG shift paddles. As a completely new feature exclusive to the E 63 AMG, the AMG selector lever has one-touch logic. Directly adjacent to it in the centre console is the AMG DRIVE UNIT, which provides adjustments for the MCT sports transmission, the ESP functions, the suspension setup and the AMG driving modes. Standard equipment also includes high-grade leather upholstery in three different colours, the AMG instrument cluster with an AMG main menu, door entry sills with AMG lettering and a sports pedal cluster – both in brushed stainless steel.
Even more individuality with tailor-made AMG extras
Customers requiring even more sporty individuality are catered for by the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO: the E 63 AMG can, for instance, be dynamically enhanced even further ex factory, with the Performance package. This includes the following:
Optional extras from the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO are also individually available ex factory:
The flagship AMG model in the E-Class traditionally meets the very highest expectations with respect to active and passive safety. Naturally this also applies to the new E 63 AMG: standard features include the new drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, the unique anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, BAS PLUS, seven airbags and crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints. The safety features can be brought to a level unprecedented in this vehicle class with the Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist systems, the PRE-SAFE® Brake with an automatic emergency braking function to bring the vehicle to a standstill, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Night View Assist and Speed Limit Assist.
New spy photos have emerged today depicting a scantily clad Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, which should be celebrating its unveiling in the not too distant future. Not surprisingly, it doesn’t look much different than the 2010 Mercedes E-Class fitted with the AMG sport package that we detailed back in January, but of course, the true fun of the E63 lies not in its design, but rather in what’s under the hood. Power from the model’s hand-built AMG 6.2-Liter V8 is expected to come in around 525 hp, while the rest of the E63’s mechanics are expected to receive a major overhaul.
We will of course keep you posted when the official specs are released; in the meantime, keep scrolling for a few more Mercedes E63 AMG spy photos, then head over to GlobalMotors.net where you can check out the full, action-packed gallery.
With the launch of the new E-Class, Mercedes-Benz is continuing a success story which is without parallel in the luxury-class car segment: Since 1947, when the Model 170 V was introduced as the direct forerunner of the E-Class, the Stuttgart-based automaker has produced more than ten million saloons in this vehicle category. In 2002 alone, some 1.3 million drivers chose the E-Class, whose market share of up to 40 percent makes it the top seller in this market segment in Germany and many other countries in Western Europe.
But as well as being by far the best-established and most successful business saloon, the E-Class is the “heart” of the Mercedes brand – it is the typical Mercedes-Benz. No other model reflects the core values of the brand as precisely as the E-Class: safety, comfort, environmental compatibility, design, quality and individuality.
The new E-Class represents another major advance by Mercedes-Benz in all these fields as the saloon marks the series-production debut of a series of innovative technical features which cannot be found in any other car in this vehicle category – from the drowsiness detection system to automatic emergency braking when an accident is imminent, from Adaptive Highbeam Assist to the Active Bonnet with its reversible actuation mechanism, from the air suspension with electronically controlled damping to the trend-setting BlueTEC exhaust aftertreatment system.
Mercedes-Benz is also offering the saloon as a specially protected E-Guard model. This is mainly distinguishable from the standard model by a network of intelligently conceived protective features of special steel, which are invisibly integrated beneath the otherwise identical body. This protective cocoon also includes all-round polycarbonate glazing. Accordingly the new E-Guard Saloon offers its occupants effective protection against the increasing worldwide risk of criminal attack in the street. With this new Guard model, Mercedes-Benz is continuing its eight decades of expertise in the design and production of special protection vehicles.
Along with innovation, individuality has always been one of the outstanding characteristics of the E-Class. And the new saloon is no exception: For example, the model range comprises ten engines, two drive concepts and three suspension variants. Further scope for individual configuration exists in the choice of two design and equipment lines, twelve wheel/tyre combinations in 16, 17, 18 or 19-inch size, twelve exterior paint finishes and six different seat upholstery materials in up to five colour combinations . The choice of interior trim has been doubled versus the preceding series, with the range now including high-gloss exotic wood, open-pored wood and aluminium.
The standard-equipment version is complemented by two design and equipment lines which form the basis for the individualisation of the E-Class. These lines emphasise the outstanding characteristics of the new Mercedes model and offer drivers scope for adjusting the car’s appearance and equipment in line with their personal tastes and lifestyle.
Standard equipment: Safety and comfort features expanded significantly
As well as incorporating the perennial core values of the E-Class, such as comfort, safety and style, the standard-equipment version includes the following items as standard:
Adaptive airbags for driver and front passenger
Adaptive brake lights, flashing
Active Bonnet with reversible actuation mechanism
Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Connector for external audio device
Electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors
Selector lever for automatic transmission on steering wheel (V6 and V8 models)
Audio 20 CD radio with twin tuner, CD player and eight loudspeakers
Controller
Brake Assist
ADAPTIVE BRAKE system with Hold function and Hill Start Assist
Direct-Steer system (V6 and V8 models)
Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) with acceleration skid control (ASR)
DIRECT CONTROL suspension with adaptive damping control
Colour display in dashboard
Five-speed automatic transmission (E 250 CDIand E 250 CGI)
Belt tensioners and belt force limiters for outer rear seats
Belt tensioners and belt force limiters for driver and front passenger
Ventilated glove compartment
Remote boot lid unlocking
LED rear lights
ISOFIX child-seat attachment points
THERMATIC automatic climate control with combined activated charcoal filter
THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control (E 500 and E 500 4MATIC)
Kneebag for driver
NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints
Light-alloy wheels
AIRMATIC air suspension (E 500 and E 500 4MATIC)
ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system
Multifunction steering wheel in nappa leather with chrome inserts
PRE-SAFE®anticipatory occupant protection
Tyrepressure loss warning system
Shift/selector lever in nappa leather
Windscreen wipers with intermittent setting and rain sensor
Six-speed manual transmission
Sidebags for driver and front passenger
7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission (V6 and V8 models)
Daytime driving lights
Bluetooth hands free system for telephone
Cruise control
Front seats electrically adjustable for height, inclination and backrest angle
Green-tinted windows all round
Windowbags
Central locking with crash sensor
High-gloss eucalyptus wood trim elements
AVANTGARDE: A contemporary character with its own front design
In AVANTGARDE guise, the E-Class has a distinctly contemporary and innovative look as a result of additional appointments and equipment, such as…
17-inch five-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels
Ambient lighting
Bi-xenon headlamps with Intelligent Light System
Waistline trim strip in polished stainless steel
245/45 R 17 wide-base tyres
Chrome trim strips on sides and rear bumper
Sporty front bumper
Automatically dimming interior mirror
Special interior colours: chestnut brown and natural beige with black roof lining
Instrument cluster in bright silver with sporty tubular design
LED daytime driving lights
Combined fabric/ARTICO man-made leather upholstery
Headlamp cleaning system
Seats with padded horizontal piping
Sporty, lowered suspension set-up
Chromed radiator grille with three louvres painted in high-gloss black
All-LED tail lights
Trim elements in black high-gloss ash wood (optional: brushed aluminium)
ELEGANCE: A stylish presence with extensive use of chrome
The ELEGANCE line (standard for E 500 and E 500 4MATIC) lives up to its name by emphasising the elegant, classic character of the E-Class — with the following additions to the standard equipment, for example:
16-inch ten-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels
Ambient lighting
Wide-base tyres: 225/55 R 16 or 245/R 17 (for V8 models)
Chrome trim strips on front bumper, sides and rear bumper
Front bumper with black air intake and chrome trim strips
Automatically dimming interior mirror
Chromed radiator grille with four louvres painted in silver
Seats with longitudinal piping pattern
Trim elements in brown high-gloss burr walnut wood
AMG sports package: Exclusivity on 18-inch wheels
In addition to the design and equipment lines, the AMGsports package offers customers further scope for equipping the new E-Class in line with their personal tastes while adding emphasis to the dynamic character of the saloon. The package contains high-quality features, most of which are not available separately. For example:
18-inch five-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels
Wide-base tyres: 245/40 R 18 (front) and 265/35 R 18 (rear)
Larger brake discs
Nappa leather three-spoke sports steering wheel with shift paddles
Floor mats with AMGlettering
Perforated brake discs and brake callipers featuring the Mercedes logo
Shift paddles on steering wheel (if automatic transmission is fitted)
Black fabric roof lining
7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with M programme
(V6 and V8 models)
Lowered sports suspension
Brushed stainless steel sports pedals with black rubber studs
Front sports seats in DINAMICA microfibre and ARTICO man-made leather
AMG front and rear aprons and side skirts
Exclusive package: Sheer indulgence for drivers
For particularly discerning drivers, Mercedes-Benz has put together the Exclusive package which includes:
Velour floor mats in appointments colour with nubuck border
Wood steering wheel
Roof lining, sun visors and pillar trim in Alcantara
High-quality dashboard finish with decorative stitching
Seat upholstery, armrests and door panels in nappa leather
Equipment packages: Combinations of safety and comfort technology
No other car offers such a comprehensive and intelligently matched array of advanced driver assistance systems as the new E-Class. To allow drivers to enjoy the benefits of these technologies to the full, Mercedes-Benz offers certain inno-vative features as optional packages. This approach ensures that the systems operate perfectly together and complement each other’s functionality:
The Lane Tracking package contains newly developed features which support the driver by helping to prevent accidental lane departure and aiding safe lane changing: Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.
The principal systems which Mercedes-Benz offers in the Driving Assistance package are designed to make an active contribution to avoiding head-to-tail collisions: the radar-based DISTRONIC PLUSproximity control system, Brake Assist PLUS and the PRE-SAFE® Brake automatic braking system. This package also includes Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.
Mercedes-Benz has put together the Light package for drivers who are often on the road at night. Along with bi-xenon headlamps, the Intelligent Light System and LED daytime driving lights this package includes the new Adaptive Highbeam Assist function.
The new E-Class offers comfort-conscious customers the Active Multicontour Seat package, containing the newly developed multicontour seats with massage and dynamic function. Mercedes-Benz offers the multicontour seats with adjustable seat cushion length and side bolster support in the Multicontour Seat package.
The Rear Comfort package includes leather-upholstered luxury individual rear seats for the rear passengers, luxury head restraints, roller sunblinds integrated in the rear doors and an electrically operated roller blind on the interior of the rear window.
The Memory package offers electrically adjustable seats with 4-way lumbar supports for the driver and front passenger as well as a memory function for the seats, exterior mirrors and steering column.
The Mirror package consists of automatically dimming interior and exterior mirrors as well as electrically folding exterior mirrors.
The Sun Protection package contains an electrically operated roller sunblind for the rear window, manually operated roller sunblinds in the rear doors and luxury, two-part folding sun visors for the driver and front passenger.
The KEYLESS-GO package consists of the KEYLESS-GO automatic vehicle unlocking functionality and remote boot closing.
The Anti-Theft Protection package contains the anti-theft alarm system with interior monitoring and tow-away protection.