2017 Mercedes-AMG E63S Launched In Malaysia – From RM 998,888

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has introduced its latest member of the Mercedes Dream Car Collection and the most powerful E-Class ever created – the 2017 (W213) Mercedes-AMG E63S 4Matic+, priced from RM998,888.

The latest generation of the E-Class model’s performance flagship, first unveiled in late-2016 introduces a number of new developments in the powertrain department, equipment levels and connected multimedia applications.

At the business end – the E63S is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that delivers a whopping 612 hp at 5,750 rpm and torque of 850 Nm between 2,500 to 4,500 rpm.

The bi-turbo V8, internally coded as the M178, utilises two twin-scroll turbochargers mounted within the ‘inner-V’ of the engine for better response and better efficiency of the catalytic converters. AMG’s Cylinder Management technology also allows for deactivation of up to four-cylinders depending on driving conditions.

The engine is mated to the AMG Speedshift nine-speed multi-clutch transmission, which has been specially tuned for the E63S model. Certain hardware components have been re-engineered, including a bespoke software program for faster gearshifts. A wet start-off clutch replaces the torque converter in the E63S.

Power is sent to all four wheels through AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, which allows for fully-variable torque distribution between front and rear axles. Despite being AWD, it is still possible to drift the E63S in the car’s “drift mode”, which can be activated in the "Race" drive program using the shift paddles.

As is commonplace by now, the AMG Dynamic Select drive programs offer four different drive programs "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport Plus" and "Individual" to fine tune the response of the engine, transmission, suspension, steering, stability control and all-wheel drive system.

AMG has also simplified the ‘RaceStart’ for the new model, which now only requires a forceful stomp of the brake pedal and simultaneously mash the accelerator pedal.

The E63S will sprint from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, and keep accelerating to a governed top speed of 250 km/h, 300 km/h is possible with AMG Driver’s package installed. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 8.8 litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 199 g/km.

Visually, the E63S is substantially different from the front to rest of the E-Class range – the aggressive looking front bumper and wider wheel arches are actually 27 mm wider than a regular E-Class, to accommodate the wider track of the wheels. Along the flanks, the E63S is fitted with huge 20-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels, wrapped in 265 mm (front) and 295 mm (rear) wide tyres front to rear respectively. At the rear, the E63S is highlighted by a lip spoiler on the boot lid and rear apron with a diffuser look.

On the inside – the E63S is fitted with a flat-bottom steering wheel and heavily-bolstered sports seats at the front. Trapezium-grain aluminium elements add further highlight to the interior, while an IWC-designed clock resides in the centre console. Standard equipment also includes the AMG instrument cluster which combines two widescreen multifunction monitors with a uniquely designed graphic display.

As for the limited-run 'Edition 1' models - the exterior is finished in the Designo matte-black paint finish, complemented by matt-finished rims as well. On the inside, drivers are treated to black Nappa leather upholstery and AMG Performance steering wheel, door armrests, centre console and carpets, in addition to subtle 'Edition 1' badging.

Our colleague Aswan was in Portugal to attend the Mercedes-AMG E63's international media drive last year. Click here for his review.