[CARS]: The Mercedes-AMG C63S E-Performance Is Ahead of Its Time

The Mercedes-AMG C63S E-Performance could easily be the most technological advanced small super sedan on the market, rivalling the BMW G80 M3 platform and Audi RS4 Avant. Using Formula1 technology to increase performance all while retaining a bit of efficiency.

The Mercedes-AMG C63S E-Performance uses the same type of architecture found in the bigger AMG models, E53, S63 E-Performance, GT63S E-Performance and many more. The main aim with type of hybrid system is to take the normal efficiency of the electric vehicle and the performance of the petrol engine.

In the C63 however, it is sorting a controversial one. The engine is a 2L turbocharged Inline-4 from the A45S which is the most powerful four-cylinder ever produced, with 470 horsepower/ 350Kw, which is powering the front axle through a nine-speed multi-clutch automatic transmission. The two electric motors add another 206 horsepower/ 153Kw, that powers the rear axle through its own two-speed automatic, making this a 680 horsepower/ 508Kw compact super sedan.

Although the added weight of the entire hybrid system means the C63 weighs 2.1 tons, which is quite a hefty amount. Although it does mean that it has all wheel drive to help get the insane 1020 Nm of torque to the ground, shaving an impressive 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 3.3 seconds. Independent tests have seen as low as 2.9 seconds.

So, it uses its hybrid system well for performance, but what about the efficiency? Well, the electric range is an estimated 15Km to, which is enough to silently get you out of the house without waking anyone nearby. The C63 proceeds to use the electric motors till it depletes which will start the motor and give you a chance to charge the battery on the move. And when the batteries are full, the car blends the two together for a more refined hybrid experience. Click the dial to Sport, Sport plus or Race, the C63 wakes up and together it will optimize performance and ultimate fun.

Now, fun for a four-cylinder, yes but fun for a C63S, no. Previous generations of C63s’ were all V8s and were purist’sfavorite version of the compact super sedan. Their V8 engine provide a lot of raw emotion with a side of the Mercedes charm. The new one may have the performance and track capabilities of a supercar but loses what made 63 AMG models so enjoyable.

However, the new C63S E-Performance is a good representation that Mercedes-AMG is ready for the electrified future ahead. Which is why this version of the C63S is very misunderstood.