There’s a reason why Mercedes-AMG continues to thrive in the increasingly competitive performance automotive marketplace. After more than fifty years of top-tier engineering experience as a subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz, AMG’s proven track record of success means more than just holding the title “King of the Ring” at Germany’s famed Nürburgring. With the 2021 AMG GT Black Series recently claiming the coveted production car record at the hallowed racetrack, it is only fitting that the brand’s latest super sedan receives the same treatment. The newly re-envisioned Mercedes-AMG E63 S is a perfect marriage of the world-class engineering and technology behind F1’s seemingly unbeatable racing team and the laser-like focus on luxury of the E-Class.
The full-size four-door E63 S sedan boasts a striking front-end facelift for the 2021 model year. The AMG GT’s aggressive front grille and enlarged Mercedes emblem top the list of notable updates, along with revisions to the headlights and taillights, new 20-inch wheels, and a redesigned rear diffuser. Another key update is the E63 S’s improved suspension system aimed at discernibly improved ride comfort over the previous version.
Inexorably destined for the Autobahn, the E63 S’s powertrain delivers an impressive 627 lb-ft of tire-shredding torque from AMG’s proven 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine. The model’s 603-hp motor helps propel the executive sedan from zero to sixty in under three seconds (having tested even quicker than the manufacturer’s estimates) and reach a top speed of 186mph. Coupled with the brand’s SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, the 2021 E63 S also includes a clever Drift mode feature that allows the system to disengage the front axle on demand. AMG’s perfectly balanced steering controls deliver loads of response and allow for cornering grip that rivals any of the new model’s industry competitors. Equipped with four driving modes (Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Race), the new E63 S offers both a singular performance driving experience for the race-inspired, and uncompromising comfort for the elite executive.
On the inside, the lengthy list of enhancements includes larger paddle shifters and a beefed-up steering wheel, along with integration of the latest Mercedes MBUX user interface. Dual side-by-side 12.3-inch screens meld seamlessly with the dash to provide access to the instrument cluster and infotainment system, while the automaker’s universal console-mounted control knob and touch pad have been synced with touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel, allowing easier access for the driver to interact with the screen functions. Additionally, the new E63 S steering wheel incorporates racing-inspired controls for the drive mode and suspension settings, which not only provide quick access for the driver but also further embellish the aesthetics of the model’s stunning interior. As with any Mercedes-Benz vehicle, only the finest materials will suffice and the E63 S is no different, with fully customizable interiors made of high-quality leathers and thoughtfully placed wood or carbon fiber accents.
The newest Mercedes model makeover offers a variety of additional options, all of which deserve consideration given the vehicle’s $100,000+ base price. Among the most desirable are the Exterior Lighting Package (which optimizes headlight visibility and adds illumination during cornering), the Air Balance Package (for cabin air purification and an integrated Mercedes-Benz fragrance system), and a number of must-have a la carte options such as heated rear seats, HUD display, and AMG ceramic composite brakes. Exterior paint color, wheel, and interior trim options are available in a wide range of choices to meet the request of each owner. The designo Brilliant Blue Magno model we drove also included the AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber Package for the perfect touch of added sportiness. Being one of the world’s most powerful sedans to-date, we think it’s an option worth every penny.
If you’re in the market for a full-size family sedan but still need your fix of high-speed thrills, the 2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 S is certainly deserving of a test drive. The mighty AMG GT motor beneath the hood of the newly refreshed model is ready to be unleashed at the simple push of a button, making this luxurious executive car a noteworthy contender for the top of your shopping list.