The 2018 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Packs Plenty of Muscle for an “Entry Level” Sedan [Review]

2018 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Sedan
[Photo: Arv Voss]

WHAT’S NEW

While C-Class models further down the line saw a nine-speed transmission upgrade for 2018, the C 63 S didn’t see any major changes. This is the last year of the “current” Mercedes-AMG C 63 S, as a refreshed model is coming for 2019. That model will see minor aesthetic tweaks as well as a big powertrain change. However, the present generation soldiers on for 2018 with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. Fortunately, the composite engine cover is minimal, rendering the “Hot V”-positioned turbochargers plainly visible.

The exterior design and styling are elegant, sophisticated, and luxurious. There are crisp angles and character lines, as well as tasteful use of chrome. The cabin exudes an equally appealing ambience, especially with the “Designo” treatment, featuring Nappa leather seating and loads of carbon fiber trim accents. The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S has heated front seats, but alas, there’s no massage feature. That’s only available on upper echelon Mercedes-Benz models.

2018 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Sedan
[Photo: Mercedes-Benz]

COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE

Unfortunately, the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S models utilize an older and less user friendly version of the COMAND system. Weirdly, when you spec a C 63 S, you have to choose between a $2,200 Navigation package or $300 for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. You can’t have both. This will likely change in the 2019 model, but for now that’s the situation. At least you can use your phone for navigation.

My test 2018 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S sedan sported an Obsidian Black  metallic exterior. Mercedes sets the base price for the AMG C 63 S at $73,700, but the final amount was much higher. After options, this car rang up at $96,670, including destination charges. Options included AMG carbon ceramic brakes, performance exhaust and the AMG Track Pace App, for a start. Then there’s the Heads-Up display, AMG Performance seats, 19-inch AMG alloy wheels and the Exterior Carbon Fiber Package. On the inside, this car has Designo leather interior, an Advanced lighting Package, a multimedia Package; and Advanced Parking Assist. All these options add up to a $100,000 C-Class after taxes and registration. Expensive, but then this is no ordinary C-Class.

2018 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Sedan
[Photo: Mercedes-Benz]

PERFORMANCE

Powering this “entry level” sports sedan is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. It pumps out a whopping 503 horsepower while also developing an impressive 516 lb-ft of torque. In this application, the engine mates to an AMG-tuned seven-speed automatic transmission. It has the job of firing all that power toward the rear wheels. The gearbox utilizes a wet startup clutch in place of a torque converter, improving both performance and efficiency. It is capable of firing off 0.1-second upshifts, as well as rev-matched downshifts in its manual mode. It’s also able to launch with more force than a torque converter automatic and can handle more torque than a dual-clutch system.

As the driver, you ultimately set the performance level of your Mercedes-AMG C 63 S. You can do that using the Dynamic Select Wheel in the center console to choose one of five settings. The settings include Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Race mode. There’s also an Individual setting where you can cater the car to your liking. Each of these settings tunes throttle response, transmission shift points, ride firmness, and how much the traction control system intervenes.

0-60 Comes Up in a Flash

AMG’s performance exhaust creates a more raucous and pleasing note, particularly in Sport mode. The car is capable of ripping from 0-60 mph in a scant 3.9 seconds (at sea level), with a top speed capability of 180 MPH. Compare that to the non-AMG C 63 that goes from 0-60 in 4 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph. Launch Control is available in both Sport+ and Race modes. Operation is simple, pull back on both shift paddles for activation of the system, brake fully, nail the throttle and quickly release the brake for maximum take-off.

Mercedes has increased the suspension’s firmness and widened the wheel track in the AMG C 63 S for enhanced stability. The wheels and tires are staggered with a more adhesive compound resulting in a better grip. Thankfully, to offset that, the sport seats are comfortable and supportive during spirited maneuvers.

Acceleration is great, braking is great, steering is positively on point with good feedback and the ride quality may be dialed in at various levels to facilitate an appropriate feel.

2018 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Sedan
[Photo: Arv Voss]

TFLCAR’S TAKE

The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S delivers stimulating good looks (it’s a real head-turner), stellar performance attributes, comfort and convenience goodies by the boatload. In the grand scheme, it’s a highly desirable sedan that represents a considerably lower barrier to entry than larger E-Class AMG models.

Check out our video below of the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S coupe taking it to the track. Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow for more videos featuring your favorite new models! If you enjoy our content, please consider pledging our Patreon page.

SPECIFICATIONS: 2018 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Sedan

On Sale: Now
Base MSRP: $73,700.
Price as Tested:
$96,670.
Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8
Drivetrain (Layout): Longitudinally mounted front engine, rear-wheel drive
Horsepower: 503 hp @ 5,500-6,250  RPM
Torque: 516 lb-ft @ 1,750 – 4,500 rpm
Transmission: AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
Suspension: AMG RIDE CONTROL Sport Suspension w/ 4-wheel multilink design with AMG-developed springs and 3-stage variable damping
Brakes: Power-assisted, adaptive braking technology, Auto Brake drying, 4-wheel ABS, EBD, BA, Hill Start Assist, and Brake hold feature.
Tires: Front: Michelin Pilot Super Sport M01 High Performance P245/35 ZR 19 93Y

Rear: Michelin Pilot Super Sport M01 High Performance P265/35 ZR19 98Y

Fuel capacity: 13.2 gallons
Fuel economy (EPA): 26 City/28 Highway MPG

Dimensions:

Wheelbase: 111.8 inches
Length:  187.0 inches
Width: 72.4 inches (without mirrors)
Height:  56.1 inches
Turning Circle: 37.1 feet
Curb Weight: 3,856 pounds