Driven: The Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance Sacrifices Its Essence for the Sake of Speed

      Plug-in hybrid vehicles are practical for two key reasons. Firstly, you can drive as far as the fuel tank allows. Secondly, you have the option to charge the battery and commute quietly for a reasonable distance. They are sensible choices for people with practical driving needs. Historically, however, the AMG model of Mercedes-Benz’s C-Class has never been regarded as a sensible car. Known for its boldness and prowess on the Autobahn with a roaring V8 engine, the German powerhouse is not typically purchased by those with rational driving requirements. So, why are we attempting to transform the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance into a more rational vehicle?

      As you may already be aware, for the new generation, Mercedes has replaced the C63’s twin-turbo V8 with a more potent 2.0-liter four-cylinder plug-in hybrid system. This electrified drivetrain is more sophisticated and generates substantial power, allowing the 4,800-pound sedan to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. However, despite this added power, AMG’s iconic C63 has shifted from a wild spark to feeling more like a fast, soulless machine.

      The Basics

      The C63 is an attractive sedan, presenting a wide and low front for that distinct AMG menacing appearance, but it transitions to a more refined and less dramatic design as you move towards the rear. It showcases the classic C-Class silhouette that signifies its high-end status, while the 20-inch, 10-spoke wheels and quad exhausts at the back add a sporty flair.

      Looking straight at the rear reveals a somewhat squished design. The taillights appear a bit too elevated, and the intersection of the black diffuser and silver bumper looks similarly high. This gives the vehicle a hatchback-like or liftback appearance. This might be a necessary design to accommodate a hybrid battery, but the trunk floor is notably high—resulting in reduced trunk space, which is disappointing for a sedan.

      Inside, the situation improves with a sleek, driver-centric cabin and an exceptional steering wheel. Mercedes-AMG is known for crafting some of the best-feeling, chunky steering wheels, which are enjoyable to handle, whether cruising through the city or tackling a winding country road. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive and can be adjusted in numerous ways. For taller or wider occupants, entering the car may feel somewhat low and cramped. Adjusting the seat back and the steering wheel forward helps, but it often seems there isn’t enough space between the A and B pillars. The rear seat tells a similar story, as those taller than six feet may find themselves cramped.

      As with any modern Mercedes interior, a 19-inch portrait-style touchscreen dominates the center of the dashboard. It has a few physical buttons for adjusting driving modes, parking cameras, hazard lights, and volume, but that’s about it. Aside from the light and wiper controls found on the stalks, all other functions rely on the touchscreen and the MBUX system.

      Driving the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance

      The absence of the V8 doesn’t mean this car lacks speed; it accelerates impressively. Some of the sounds produced aren’t too bad either. However, the deep, throaty rumble is missing, replaced instead by a race car-like pop with each shift of the nine-speed transmission. While you might not envision yourself in a Silver Arrows F1 car, a GT3 racer feel is likely. Yet, much of the sound produced in between those pops is less pleasant. Even worse, you need to press the accelerator hard to experience that auditory excitement. With the previous V8, you could drive at 40 mph in fifth gear and still sound formidable.

      The absence of the V8 is most apparent at startup. When you push the Engine Start button, you’re met with… silence. It’s a rather un-AMG moment. Yes, you can swiftly switch the drive mode to Sport using the steering wheel-mounted control knob to hear the engine start, but it all feels quite artificial. In a regular vehicle, this would be perfectly acceptable. It would seem refined, and I would likely appreciate its good manners, but in a C63 AMG? It's a letdown.

      Nevertheless, when faced with a lengthy highway or a winding road, it will unleash all 671 horsepower in an instant. You’ll experience a jolt and a forward surge, and before you can fully comprehend what occurred, you might find yourself traveling at 125 mph. On a curvy road, you need to remain vigilant, as the sudden thrust could pull the wheel from your hands and send you off course.

      This test model was fitted with winter tires, which aren’t ideal for aggressive driving but showcased the car’s beautiful balance and outstanding suspension. Slamming on the brakes while entering a corner doesn’t cause the front end to dive, nor does the rear step out as you begin to apply power. The