Mercedes-AMG C 63 hybrid tops C-Class lineup

BERLIN -- Mercedes-AMG unveiled the C 63, the new top model of the automaker's C-Class, with a hybrid drivetrain that replace the performance sedan's traditional V-8.

The hybrid powertrain produces 670 hp (680 PS, 500 kW) from a 469-hp, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with a 201-hp electric motor on the rear axle. The combined maximum system torque is 1020 newton meters (752 pound-feet).

The electric turbocharger is integrated directly on the shaft of the turbocharger between the turbine wheel on the exhaust side and the compressor wheel on the fresh air side.

This electronically controlled motor drives the turbocharger shaft directly, accelerating the compressor wheel before the exhaust gas flow takes over the conventional drive.

The high-performance battery in the C 63 offers a capacity of 6.1 kWh, 70 kW continuous power and 150 kW peak power for ten seconds.

The 400-volt battery's lithium ion energy storage system was developed in cooperation between the High Performance Powertrains (HPP) Formula 1 engine shop in Brixworth, England, and Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach, Germany.

One innovative feature is direct cooling of the battery cells, for which AMG specialists had to develop new cooling modules millimeters thin, which ensure a consistent, optimum operating temperature for the cells.

Charging is through the installed 3.7 kW on-board charger with alternating current at a charging station, wallbox or household socket. The Mercedes-AMG can drive around 13 km (8 miles) on pure electric power.

For the first time in a C 63, the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system transmits the drive power to the road and offers active rear-axle steering as standard.

Other features include an AMG Ride Control suspension with an adaptive damping system, eight different driving modes and custom sound design experiences inside and outside the vehicle.

Launched simultaneously as a sedan and a wagon, both models are based on a modified AMG bodyshell with a front end measuring 50 mm (2 inches) longer and an overall length 83 mm (3.25 inches) longer than the standard C-class.

Mercedes said the C 63 accelerates from 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in 3.4 seconds, tops out at an electronically limited 250 kph (155 mph) and can optionally be increased to 280 kph for the sedan or 270 kph for the wagon with optional AMG Driver's Package.

Upgraded design cues on the exterior, including AMG badging, a twin-spoke steering wheel, and special upholstery layout and a distinctive stitching pattern on the interior further differentiate the C 63.

Additional cockpit features include the MBUX infotainment system, offering several AMG- and hybrid-specific displays and functions, including a heads-up display (HUD) with display styles including Race and Supersport.

Mercedes has not yet provided pricing or availability for the vehicle, though a release is likely in the second half of 2023.