Automotive

Published on October 2nd, 2015 | by Daniel Sherman Fernandez

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Mercedes-AMG C 63 configured for performance from RM698,888

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia today announces the availability of the all-new Mercedes-AMG C 63 S, the most powerful V8 model in its segment. With unrivalled low fuel consumption of 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres, the C 63 S is the most economical eight-cylinder car in the high-performance segment and sets a new benchmark.

“The Mercedes-AMG C 63 carries the typical AMG DNA. The AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine impresses with its fulminating power delivery and highly emotional engine sound. In terms of output, torque and fuel consumption, the C 63 takes the peak position in its segment. It once again demonstrates our technological leadership in the high-performance segment,” says Mark Raine, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.

He added, “With around 40,000 units sold globally, the C 63 AMG in the 204 series was the best-selling AMG model. We are continuing this success story with the new Mercedes-AMG C 63, and are very proud to be introducing this to the Malaysian customers today. Whether in terms of power, driving dynamics or appointments: the Mercedes-AMG C 63 sets new standards and will further reinforce our brand claim of “Driving Performance”. AMG customers can look forward to an extraordinarily dynamic driving experience.”

The C 63 has an exceptional status in the competitive line-up. The new high-performance cars from Affalterbach are the only models in their segment to be powered by an eight-cylinder biturbo engine. The result is sporty power delivery, vast torque and – as a typical AMG trademark – a highly emotional engine sound. Thanks to superior output and torque, the driver has the benefit of unrivalled performance figures: The C 63 S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds. The top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited). With a power-to-weight ratio of 3.2 kg/hp, the new AMG V8 top models likewise head the field in this segment.

New V8 biturbo closely related to the engine of the Mercedes-AMG GT

This impressive jump in efficiency takes its origins from the new power unit: the M177 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, the latest member of the BlueDIRECT engine family, is closely related to the M178 sports car engine that powers the new Mercedes-AMG GT. This innovative eight-cylinder unit stands out for its sublime power delivery, the purposeful lightweight construction, as well as its high efficiency and environmental compatibility. It also meets the highest expectations with regard to noise and vibration comfort.

The newly developed eight-cylinder features two turbochargers which are not mounted on the outside of the cylinder banks but rather inside the V configuration – experts call it a ‘hot inside V’. The benefits are a compact engine design; optimum responsiveness and low exhaust emissions.

Performances exhaust system available on driver’s request

Excitement, emotive appeal and character: at Mercedes-AMG the engine sound is an important objective during the development process. A sports exhaust system with special exhaust flap technology is used for the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S. Depending on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode, the engine note varies between subdued for long-distance tours and throaty for emotional appeal. The exhaust flap is located in the front third of the twin-pipe exhaust system, and is operated variably according to a characteristic map – dependent on the transmission mode, the driver’s power requirement and the engine speed.

A Performance exhaust system with three selectable exhaust flaps is available for the C 63 S. This gives the driver an even wider sound range: in transmission mode “Comfort” the engine note is comfortable and discreet, while in “Sport +” and “Race” the V8 sound is far more dominant, and reminiscent of a racing touring car – including very audible upshifts and pronounced throttle blips.

In addition to being varied by the transmission mode, the engine sound can be individually selected in two stages at the touch of a button.
C 63 S with dynamic engine mounts as standard

A a new and unique feature in this competitive segment, the C 63 S – like the Mercedes-AMG GT – is equipped with dynamic engine mounts. These resolve the conflicting aims of comfort and dynamic performance by reducing vibrations in the engine/transmission unit. These dynamic mounts are instantly and variably able to adapt their rigidity to the driving conditions and style of driving. Soft engine mounts improve comfort, as they provide more effective decoupling of noise and vibration. However, handling and agility benefit from a generally stiffer mount set-up. The driver feels more connected to the vehicle when driving dynamically, as there is more feedback and the steering response is more direct. All in all the driver benefits from more precise vehicle control: minimised movement of the powertrain’s mass makes for more precise steering characteristics.

A tradition of hand-built excellence: “one man, one engine”

Powerful V8 engines have long been a key area of expertise at AMG, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes-AMG GmbH is entirely responsible for both their development and production. The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine is hand-assembled in Affalterbach according to the “one man, one engine” principle. Apart from serving as a hallmark confirming superlative production quality, the AMG engine badge bearing the engine technician’s signature also attests to the peerless DNA of the sports car and high-performance brand within Mercedes-Benz.
Variable dynamics: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission

The transmission plays a major part in the direct and sporty character of the new Mercedes-AMG C 63. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission impresses with its tailor-made dynamics and high variability. The MCT transmission was thoroughly revised for use in the C 63, and now responds to all gearshift commands even more directly. The double-clutching function during downshifts, which varies in intensity depending on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode, guarantees maximum emotional appeal.

Whether automatic or initiated by the driver using the steering wheel shift paddles, a manual upshift or downshift is executed noticeably faster than in the preceding model. Especially in transmission modes “Sport +” and “Race” (only for C 63 S), the transmission is now much more responsive. Improvements to the hardware and software of the transmission have made this greater responsiveness possible. The aluminium shift paddles on the new Performance steering wheel are also able to transfer the driver’s manual gearshift instructions even more quickly than before. There is a further increase in perceived dynamism.

The great variability of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission is shown by the wide variety of transmission modes. There is a choice between “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport +” and “Individual” – also “Race” exclusively for the C 63 S. The driver selects the required transmission mode using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch. The transmission modes define the gearshift times, and therefore noticeably modify the driving characteristics.

RACE START function for the best possible acceleration from rest

The RACE START function provides maximum dynamism: it offers the best possible acceleration from rest, e.g. when starting in a race. The driver is able to activate it when stationary in “Sport”, “Sport +” and “Race”, by pulling both shift paddles at the same time. Transmission mode “M” and “ESP SPORT HANDLING MODE” must have been activated beforehand. Following pre-set RACE START logic, a confirmation prompt appears in the instrument cluster. The driver must now confirm the RACE START function by pulling the “up” shift paddle once, then floor the accelerator. The ideal engine speed for a fast start is set fully automatically.

The driver then releases the brakes and the C 63 accelerates with maximum power. Sensitive control by the dual clutch transmission responds to the current traction of the tyres, ensuring that wheel slip with RACE START remains within the maximum friction coefficient of the tyres. The driver does not need to shift the gears manually, as the AMG transmission changes them automatically with extremely short shift times.

AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with 3-stage damping adjustment

Outstanding agility, high cornering speeds and optimum neutrality: all made possible by the design and development of the sophisticated suspension system. The C 63 has model-specific axles with high aluminium content, performance-oriented kinematics, electronically controlled shock absorbers and AMG-specific elastokinematics. With the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, the customer is able to choose between maximum sportiness and pronounced long-distance comfort in three stages at the push of a button.

A four-link front suspension with radial, racing-oriented brake connections is used in the C 63. Model-specific steering knuckles, special elastokinematics and a wider track allow greater lateral acceleration. The multi-link independent rear suspension also has a higher negative camber.

To improve traction and vehicle dynamics the C 63 has a mechanical rear axle locking differential, the C 63 S an electronic rear axle locking differential. Both locking differentials reduce slip at the inner wheel when cornering, without braking intervention. As a result, the driver is able to accelerate out of bends at an earlier stage. The car remains more stable when braking from high speeds, and the locking differential also improves traction when moving off. The advantage of the electronic rear axle locking differential, which is standard equipment on the C 63 S, over the mechanical version is even more sensitive and rapid response: it extends the physical limits upwards.

The standard-fit 3-stage ESP^® with the “ESP^® ON”, “ESP^® SPORT HANDLING MODE” and “ESP^® OFF” functions works in perfect unison with the locking differential, and is tuned optimally to the outstanding driving dynamics.

• “ESP^® ON” is always active when the engine is started. In “ESP^® ON” the system initiates braking intervention at one or more wheels and reduces the engine torque on detecting that the operating conditions are becoming unstable.
• “ESP^® SPORT HANDLING MODE” becomes active when the driver briefly presses the ESP^® button once. In this mode the oversteering or understeering intervention and engine torque control allow higher dynamic thresholds and corresponding drift angles.
• Pressing and holding the ESP^® button activates “ESP^® OFF”. In this case the engine torque is no longer reduced, to ensure dynamic performance and enhance driving pleasure. “ESP^® OFF” should only be used by very experienced drivers on enclosed racetracks. All the functions of ESP^® are restored as soon as the driver operates the brake pedal.

• The electromechanical, speed-sensitive sports steering ensures precise, agile handling. The driver benefits from a direct steering ratio and optimum responsiveness. It also has variable power assistance. The power assistance is electronically adjusted to suit the current vehicle speed. It not only responds depending on the given road speed, but also according to the current lateral acceleration and the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode.

High-performance ceramic composite braking system exclusively for the C 63 S

Excellent deceleration and fade-resistance is ensured by the AMG high-performance braking system with internally ventilated and perforated 360‑millimetre brake discs all-round. The grey-painted brake callipers have white AMG lettering. In the C 63 S the front discs are of compound construction with a diameter of 390 millimetres, and the red brake callipers have black AMG lettering. A high-performance ceramic composite braking system at the front axle is available as an optional extra for the C 63 S for the first time. The ceramic discs have a diameter of 402 millimetres, and the striking “AMG Carbon Ceramic” lettering can be found on the specially painted brake callipers.

The discs of carbon-fibre reinforced ceramic material are produced in a vacuum at 1700 degrees Celsius. This advanced material and production technology makes them especially hard. The resulting resistance to extreme loads and heat extends their operating life by many times compared to grey cast-iron discs. The ceramic brake discs are more than 50 percent lighter than conventional compound brake discs. The reduction in unsprung masses enhances driving dynamics and agility.

At the same time the responsiveness of the steering and the suspension comfort are improved. A higher coefficient of friction reduces the force required at the brake pedal, allowing uniform, sensitive braking even in extreme conditions.

Also new and reserved exclusively for the C 63 S: the optional sports tyres in size 245/35 R 19 (front) and 265/35 R 19 (rear). These ensure a noticeable and measurable increase in grip, and shorter braking distances on dry surfaces – the perfect arrangement for fast laps on enclosed racetracks.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes

The driver is able to influence the characteristics of the C 63 with four or five different AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes. The C 63 S has the additional transmission mode “Race”. There is therefore scope for maximum individualisation. The driver selects the transmission mode using a switch to the left of the touchpad on the centre console. The driver can choose from various preconfigured transmission modes and one the driver can to a large extent configure personally.

The following AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes are available:

• “Comfort”
• “Sport”
• “Sport +”
• “RACE” (only for C 63 S)
• “Individual”

“Comfort” mode with new sailing function

“Comfort” is the well-balanced transmission mode with a comfort-oriented suspension and steering setup, as well as a fuel-efficient powertrain configuration – including smooth gearshifts and a discreet engine note. The “sailing function” for a further reduction in fuel consumption is completely new: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 60 and 160 km/h, the clutch of the MCT transmission is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The electronics reduce the engine speed to idle level, and the driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode. The “sailing” function is indicated in the AMG instrument cluster by a new icon depicting a stylised sailing yacht. The ECO start/stop function is also available in transmission mode “C”, switching off the engine at traffic-lights and helping to save fuel.

“Sport” mode

Transmission mode “Sport” emphasises agility and driving pleasure, with a sporty engine and transmission configuration. The suspension has stiffer response characteristics optimised for a sporty driving style on fast, undulating circuits such as the North Loop of Nürburgring, while still offering a certain measure of comfort. The exhaust system remains subdued, and 3-stage ESP^® is ON. The ECO start/stop and “sailing” functions are inactive in “Sport” mode.
“Sport +” mode

In “Sport+” mode the powertrain responds very rapidly to dynamic load changes. For even better acceleration from standstill, the idling speed is increased from 600 to 800 rpm. The exhaust system also plays its part: the adjustable exhaust flaps open sooner and more dynamically, so that the driver can enjoy the unmistakable AMG V8 engine sound to the full. The gearshift strategy of the DCT transmission is optimally adapted to the needs of the racetrack – including extremely fast shift times, emotional double-declutching and fast response. Partial cylinder suppression by means of a momentary and precisely defined retardation of ignition and injection under full throttle speeds up the gear changes, and is also audible to the driver. The suspension setup changes to racetrack mode with maximum damping for modern circuits with a very level surface, with 3-stage ESP^® remaining “ON”. A reduction in servo assistance ensures precise steering feedback when driving in a sporty manner. The ECO stop/start and “sailing” functions remain inactive. 

“Individual” mode

Over and above the preconfigured modes, the “Individual” transmission mode makes it possible to vary individual parameters for the engine, exhaust system, damper settings, transmission mode and 3-stage ESP^®. The driver is able to configure the C 63 to personal requirements, and conveniently store the desired configurations in the memory. The following combination is possible, for example: the shock absorbers in “Comfort”, the engine in “Sport”, the transmission mode in “Manual”, 3-stage ESP^® in “ESP^® SPORT HANDLING MODE” and the exhaust system in “Sport +”. 

“RACE” mode reserved exclusively for the C 63 S

Maximum vehicle dynamics at the touch of a button: only the C 63 S is equipped with the “RACE” transmission mode. The response characteristics of the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine and the accelerator are now even more immediate. As in “Sport +”, for even better acceleration from standstill, the idling speed is increased from 600 to 800 rpm. The exhaust system, suspension and steering remain at “Sport +” level, while 3-stage ESP^® changes to “SPORT HANDLING MODE” and allows wider drift angles. The ECO start/stop and sailing functions are inactive. The transmission activates “Race” mode, which is configured to maintain an optimum engine speed in the lowest possible gear when driving at racetrack speeds. The electromechanical, speed-sensitive sports power steering remains as in “Sport +”. “RACE” mode is rounded off by rapid and responsive gearshifts.

Pop-up window with an animated C 63 in various colour combinations

The currently selected mode is visualised using specific icons in the AMG instrument cluster, below the upshift indicator. A pop-up window also appears on the free-standing central display whenever the transmission mode is changed: Depending on the mode, the animated C 63 is shown with an appropriate graphic and colour presentation. While subdued shades of blue predominate in “Comfort”, the car is shown on a racetrack in “Race” mode – including red/white kerbs. The driver selecting “Individual” mode will find the respective features available for adaptation at the left edge of the pop-up window. For better visualisation, explanatory graphics appear on the right; in addition the selection made by the driver is highlighted in yellow.

Last Mode stores the transmission mode for a maximum of four hours

The “Last Mode” function is a new feature: This prevents a previously activated transmission mode or individual parameters (engine, transmission, exhaust system, damper setup, 3-stage ESP^®) from being deleted. If the driver has been on the road in “Sport +”, for example, and interrupts the journey for a short period, “Sport +” remains active for a maximum of four hours. Exception: for safety reasons, 3-stage ESP^® always reverts to “ON” mode when the engine is restarted – even if the driver previously activated “SPORT Handling Mode” or “OFF”. A pop-up message “ESP ON” reminds the driver of this. If the journey is interrupted for more than four hours, the basic “Comfort” mode will always be activated when the engine is restarted.

All the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes can be further adapted at the touch of a button in the centre console – on the left side manual transmission mode “M”, the shock absorbers of the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension and 3-stage ESP^®, for example. On the right are the buttons for the ECO start/stop function and, depending on level of equipment, for the Performance exhaust system. The wide scope for individualisation allows convenient adaptation to suit personal preferences.

Form follows performance – the design embraces the technology

Form follows performance – the design of the powerful V8 top models is influenced by motorsports, and embraces the fascinating technology. Essential aerodynamic and cooling requirements have been incorporated into the design idiom, to ensure that the C 63 is fully equipped for the extreme requirements of the racetrack.

Sensual purity is combined with stylish sportiness: the Mercedes-AMG C 63 already fascinates at first glance. The C 63 and C 63 S are visually distinguishable by specific design features. The emotive, sensual surfaces of the new C-Class, with reduced, purist contours, are slightly convex to give the model a dynamic character.

The Mercedes-AMG C 63 has aluminium wings flared by 14 millimetres on each side, with inset “V8 BITURBO” lettering, and the complete front section is extended by 54 millimetres. This benefits the vehicle’s proportions. The wider track and powerful eight-cylinder engine require a model-specific front section. Moreover, the body structure is reinforced in certain areas to transfer and compensate the extreme linear and lateral forces from the powertrain and suspension.

Mercedes-AMG has placed a strong emphasis on sportiness in the design of the C 63, as the front section clearly shows: the long aluminium bonnet is embellished with two prominent powerdomes, ensuring a masculine appearance in combination with the flared wings. The striking bonnet has a dramatic transition to the radiator grille, and makes the car appear to be accelerating while at rest. This emphasises the forward thrust and dynamism of the C 63. This impression is reinforced by the low, arrow-shaped “twin blade” radiator grille with AMG lettering, which visually lowers the car’s centre of gravity.

The “A-Wing” in the front apron, a characteristic feature of AMG Performance models, is three-dimensional and also serves as an air deflector for the three cooling air inlets. Flics ensure an optimum airflow to the cooling modules. A front splitter at the lower end of the front apron helps to reduce lift. Prominent side sill panels also help to lower the visual centre of gravity.

The diffuser insert with three fins at the rear is a feature adopted from motorsports, as are the simulated air vents in the sides. These form defined spoiler lips, and improve the C_d figure. The trim strip in the diffuser echoes the A-Wing in the front end. The two chrome-plated twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system are perfectly integrated into the diffuser. The model badges “AMG” (left) and “C 63” (right) are affixed to the boot lid or tailgate. The C 63 S distinguishes itself with a contrasting, black “S” on the right, next to the “C 63” lettering.

Extremely alluring interior

Every detail in the interior of the C 63 is extremely alluring: carefully selected, high-grade materials with a pleasant touch and precise workmanship produce a level of perceived quality that is rare even in the higher vehicle classes. On opening the door, the driver is welcomed by the AMG start-up screen: an animated C 63 appears on the multifunction display of the instrument cluster, and “winks” with its headlamps. In addition AMG lettering appears on the central display on the dashboard. As on the exterior, the more powerful C 63 S also has a number of interior differences from the C 63.

The dashboard is lined with black ARTICO man-made leather with topstitching in crystal grey, while the wing-like aluminium trim element and the AMG-specific analogue clock in IWC design accentuate the high-quality impression. The touchpad is flanked by the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch and numerous AMG-specific controls such as the button for the 3-stage Ride Control sports suspension, the manual transmission mode, 3-stage ESP^® or optionally the button for the Performance exhaust system with flap control.

A sporty and dynamic ambience is also ensured by the 3-spoke Performance steering wheel with a 12 o’clock marking and by the instrument cluster. The model-specific dial faces in carbon-fibre look feature technically sophisticated through-lighting, the speedometer reads up to 320 km/h. The digital speed and currently engaged gear are shown in the multifunction display. The driver also has a variety of AMG menus available which can be activated using the steering wheel buttons:

• Warm-up: “BOOST” charge pressure as a bar display, engine oil temperature, transmission oil temperature
• Set-up: Engine, suspension, transmission, exhaust system, 3-stage ESP^®
• RACETIMER: Lap time, lap history

If the driver has selected manual transmission mode “M”, an upshift indicator appears at the upper edge of the multifunction display. Eight white/yellow/red LEDs and the gear diagram with an arrow pointing upwards indicate that an upshift is necessary. The relevant AMG DYNAMIC SELECT icon is visible on the left.

Performance seats are available as an alternative to the standard sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre with AMG badges in the backrests: these allow the occupants a lower seating position, and are more heavily contoured for increased lateral support.

Other standard equipment of the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S include:

• ADAPTIVE BRAKE
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• Audio 20 USB multimedia system
• COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
• ECO start/stop function
• ISOFIX child seat attachment system
• LED High Performance headlamps
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
• Sports pedals
• Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC

Exclusive with outstanding appeal: the C 63 “Edition 1”

The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S will also be available as “Edition 1” models: their extraordinary combination of exclusive design and equipment features has outstanding appeal. There is a choice of six attractive exterior paint finishes: polar white, designo diamond white bright, iridium silver metallic, palladium silver metallic, obsidian black metallic and the AMG-specific finish designo iridium silver magno.

The “Edition 1” is distinguishable from outside by numerous design highlights:

• Spoiler lip in high-gloss black
• Night package including chrome-plated exhaust tailpipes
• Red highlights (adhesive foil) for radiator grille and exterior mirrors
• 5 x 19 and 9.5 x 19 forged wheels in a cross-spoke design, painted in matt black with red-painted rim flange, tyre size 245/35 R 19 (front) and 265/35 R 19 (rear)
• Side sports stripes in matt graphite grey (adhesive foil) above the side sill panels

The striking colour scheme is continued in the interior:

• Red designo seat belts
• Driver and passenger seats electrically adjustable with memory function
• Black floor mats with “AMG” lettering and red piping
• Performance steering wheel in DINAMICA microfibre with flattened bottom section, red 12 o’clock marking, red contrasting topstitching, steering wheel bezel in silver chrome with “Edition 1” lettering and silver-coloured aluminium shift paddles
• Performance seats and door centre panels in diamond-pattern black nappa leather with red contrasting topstitching
• Heated seats for the driver and passenger
• Trim in red pepper carbon-fibre / light longitudinal-grain aluminium

The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S at a glance:

* in ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90 % full, without driver and luggage); ** in ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90 % full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg); *** electronically limited, optional increase in top speed to 290 km only in combination with the AMG Driver’s Package.

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