2023 Mercedes-AMG E63 S
Overview
The 2023 Mercedes-AMG E63 S marks the final chapter in the hot-rod division’s Book of Boosted V8s. The high-performance E-class sedan will likely follow in the tire tracks of the AMG C63, which receives a hybridized powertrain for the 2024 model year. Those looking to purchase an AMG E63 or place a factory order are likely aware that dealers were unable to fulfill orders for 2022 models after suspending sales of most V-8-powered vehicles in the U.S. But the company says its resuming sales for 2023, which is good news because the E63 S is a delightful machine, surging through space with its twin-turbo V8 pumping out 603 thundering horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, its multi-clutch nine-speed transmission delivering that power to all four wheels. The super saloon can muster up enough gall to take on most any of today’s super sedan, but it’s capable of much more than just being a ballistic missile. The wonderfully luxurious cabin can be a serene space for the driver and passengers, and its air suspension can deliver a supple ride at the flick of the mode switch. This duality of personality is a key part of what makes the AMG E63 S so special. This is the E63 S’s final production year, and and that specialness will be missed.
What’s New for 2023?
The AMG E63 S goes mostly unchanged for the 2023 model year, save for the addition of the Final Edition equipment package. Only 999 Final Edition models will be built and all of them will be coated in a Matt Graphite Grey Magno exterior finish paired with the AMG Night Package, which includes high-gloss black accents as well as tinted glass from the B-pillar back. For more exclusivity, customers can add one or both Carbon Packages, which dress up the exterior with carbon fiber components. On the inside, highly-adjustable, heated, performance seats are standard for the limited-production package as is carbon fiber interior trim. Matched to the exterior finish, the titanium grey pearl and black nappa leather upholstery extends to the instrument panel and beltline and features yellow contrast stitching. A Final Edition badge is affixed to the center console and an AMG indoor car cover branded with “AMG E 63 S FINAL EDITION” is also included for good measure.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
If it were our money, we’d splurge for one of the 999 Final Edition models. We’re not yet sure which available options may be part of the Final Edition, or exactly what it will add to the sticker price, but our preferred spec would include extra-cost features that further enhance the AMG E63’s luxurious persona. These include the Exterior Lighting package that brings automatic high-beams and headlights that work to maximize illumination, even around corners. We also like the Warmth and Comfort and Acoustic Comfort packages. Together they add a heated steering wheel, heated front armrests, rapid-heating elements to the front seats, and additional sound-deadening materials that help keep the cabin as quiet as a library. Our favorite individual options include the three-zone automatic climate control, heated rear seats, head-up display, massaging front seats, and the soft-close doors.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The E63 S’s mega twin-turbo 603-hp V-8 engine is a mild-mannered partner and a maniacal monster wrapped up into one. Left in Comfort mode, the engine and nine-speed automatic transmission react with stoicism and smoothness. Select any of the sportier drive modes and the powertrain unleashes relentless fury. Gearchanges are lightning fast, and the engine’s 627 pound-feet of torque tears the tires with rampant rage. In our testing, the E63 S charged to 60 mph in a mere 3.0 seconds and ripped up the quarter-mile in 11.1 seconds at 126 mph. Despite being saddled with a pair of turbochargers, the 4.0-liter V-8 sounds almost as wonderful as AMG’s naturally aspirated V-8 engines of yore, and it will surely be missed. Adding to the thrill is the AMG’s steering, which is well weighted and highly communicative. While not as supple as the regular E-class, the E63’s ride is soft enough in its default setting that daily driving is certainly a possibility. Toggle the springs to the Sport or Sport+ setting, however, and the E63 is liable to shake out the fillings in your teeth. However, a retuned suspension was part of the 2021 model year revision and was softened as per customer feedback. That said, the AMG E63 still enjoys being stroked to the limit and greatly rewards drivers who have enough chutzpah to get it there.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Given the mind-expanding performance of the E63 S, the mighty Mercedes-AMG is impressively fuel efficient. But that doesn’t mean it’s an abstemious consumer of fuel. For the 2021 model year it received an EPA-estimated rating of 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. We expect the super sedan to get the same ratings for 2023 as the same boosted V8 is still under the hood for one last model year. The last version we tested returned 22 mpg on our 200-mile highway route, which helps us evaluate real-world efficiency. Not bad for a rocket ship.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
As in other E-class models, the E63’s interior is made of high-quality materials that are pieced together with the care and craftsmanship of a handbag by Hermès. Largely devoid of buttons, the E63’s dashboard is anchored by a row of knurled-aluminum switches for adjusting the standard dual-zone automatic climate-control system. A chunky three-spoke steering wheel features a flat bottom and a pair of big paddle shifters. Although the E63’s trunk room is less than that of rivals such as the Porsche Panamera Turbo, we still managed to fit five of our carry-on suitcases inside. That number is only one less than the Porsche, which is technically a hatchback and sports a visibly larger cargo area.
The Car and Driver Difference
Infotainment and Connectivity
A pair of 12.3-inch screens dominate the upper dashboard—one for the digital gauge cluster and another for the infotainment system. The interface is controlled by the brand’s ubiquitous console-mounted control knob, with a touchpad on top that allows users to input commands by swiping a finger and offers a degree of added functionality. Alas, we found the touchpad fussy to use and easy to brush accidentally. The driver can also interact with the two screens by using a pair of touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel. Standard features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a Burmester audio system, and wireless phone charging.
How to Buy and Maintain a Car
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The AMG E63 S sedan hasn’t been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). We’re also disappointed that Mercedes charges customers extra for most driver-assistance technology. Key safety features include:
Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Although its warranty is competitive, we’re befuddled by Mercedes-AMG’s decision to forgo complimentary scheduled service; something offered by nearly all of its rivals such as BMW, Jaguar, and Volvo.
Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Specifications
2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Sedan
VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-/all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
PRICE AS TESTED: $135,330 (base price: $105,395)
ENGINE TYPE: twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 243 cu in, 3982 cc
Power: 603 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque: 627 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 9-speed automatic with manual shifting mode
DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 115.7 in
Length: 196.4 in
Width: 75.1 in Height: 56.6 in
Passenger volume: 98 cu ft
Trunk volume: 13 cu ft
Curb weight: 4587 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS:
Zero to 60 mph: 3.0 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 7.0 sec
Zero to 130 mph: 11.9 sec
Zero to 150 mph: 16.6 sec
Zero to 170 mph: 23.3 sec
Rolling start, 5-60 mph: 3.9 sec
Top gear, 30-50 mph: 2.3 sec
Top gear, 50-70 mph: 2.7 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 11.1 sec @ 126 mph
Top speed (governor limited, mfr’s claim): 186 mph
Braking, 70-0 mph: 155 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 1.01 g
C/D FUEL ECONOMY:
Observed: 12 mpg
75-mph highway driving: 22 mpg
Highway range: 460 mi
EPA FUEL ECONOMY:
Combined/city/highway: 18/15/22 mpg
More Features and Specs
