Model upgrade Mercedes-AMG E-Class in sports dress!

Reading time 16 Min.

The E-Class is one of the central models that form the core of the Mercedes-AMG brand. The extensive update of the latest generation includes sedans, T-models, coupes and convertibles with six- and eight-cylinder engines, which cover a power range from 320 kW (435 hp) to 450 kW (612 hp). The sporty driving dynamics of the performance models from Affalterbach remain unchanged and are now combined with increased everyday comfort. The standard, fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC + all-wheel drive guarantees optimum traction in all driving conditions. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT 9-speed transmission, which combines fast gear changes with high efficiency, is also standard. With the redesigned front section and the AMG-specific radiator grille, the current, striking design update emphasizes even more that it belongs to the AMG family. The interior has also been thoroughly upgraded: the widescreen cockpit, the new AMG Performance steering wheel and the MBUX infotainment system with AMG-specific functions and displays offer a higher degree of digitalization and thus a contemporary, modern user experience.

4,0 liter V8 biturbo engine with 612 hp

The top of the Mercedes-AMG E-Class family are the E 63 4MATIC + models, with a 4,0-liter V8 biturbo engine in two output levels with 450 kW (612 hp) or 420 kW (571 hp) as a sedan and estate . In order to ensure optimal air throughput, the outer inlets in the jet wing of the newly designed front section are not only particularly large, but also direct the air precisely to where it is needed with the help of two cross blades. Designers and aerodynamics experts worked closely together during development. Thanks to their findings, not only the striking AMG bodystyling was created, but also the optimized aerobalance - for agile driving behavior on country roads and optimum driving stability on the autobahn. In addition, the aerodynamicists were able to further reduce air resistance.

chic flap in high-gloss black

Another distinctive visual feature of the eight-cylinder models: a harmoniously fitted flap in high-gloss black extends across the entire front apron, extends to the outer edge of the jet wing and closes it off on the outside. The front splitter is either in the body color (basic model), in silver shadow (S model), in high-gloss black (with the optional AMG Night package) or in carbon fiber (with the optional AMG carbon exterior package I). The more powerful and 27 millimeters wider wheel arches make space for the wider track and the larger wheels on the front axle - an additional functional advantage.

The E 53 4MATIC + models as sedan, T-model, coupé and convertible are also even more powerful with a completely redesigned front view. The AMG-specific radiator grille with its A-shaped outline and the flat headlights reinforce the broad effect.

New rear design conveys more elegance and lightness

At the rear of the sedan, the new, flatter and now split rear lights are immediately noticeable. They now extend into the trunk lid and are optically connected to the top with a decorative strip in high-gloss chrome. On the estate, this trim extends even further to the end of the outer rear lights. Its shape is unchanged, but has been given a new interior design in the look of the sedan. The spoiler lip on the trunk lid of the sedan is painted in the same color as the vehicle, and with the optional AMG Carbon Exterior II package made of carbon. The newly shaped rear apron emphasizes the width and also has a positive effect on aerodynamics. The rear section is rounded off by the likewise redesigned diffuser.

Aerodynamically optimized wheels and individual design packages

Aerodynamically optimized and painted in matt black or high-gloss tantalum gray, the new 19-inch (standard) or 20-inch (optional) light alloy wheels set fresh accents. The E 63 S model rolls as standard on new 20-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, also aerodynamically optimized and designed with a wider aero rim edge, painted in matt black or high-gloss tantalum gray.

With the optional AMG Night Package, individual focal points can be set. Exterior mirror housings, window frames, inserts in the side sill panels as well as trim parts in the front and rear aprons are finished in high-gloss black. There are also tailpipe trims in black chrome. As a further option, the AMG-specific radiator grille is also available in a darkened design. The AMG Carbon Package Exterior I, which is available exclusively for the 63 models, includes front splitter, insert in the side sill panels and the trim in the rear apron made of carbon. The AMG exterior II carbon package sets individual highlights with mirror caps and tear-off edge on the trunk lid (sedan) in carbon.

Noble interior with a sporty touch and high long-distance comfort

The interior combines a noble ambience and high-quality materials with the characteristic AMG performance. The AMG sports seats combine secure lateral support with a high level of comfort on long journeys and have AMG-specific seat graphics with an “AMG” badge in the front seat backrests. The upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather / DINAMICA microfiber black with AMG graphics, red contrasting topstitching and AMG badge is characteristic of the E 53 models. The eight-cylinder units are fitted with leather seat covers as standard, and numerous leather variants are optionally available for all models. AMG performance seats with integrated headrests and even better lateral support can also be ordered on request. In the E 63 S variant, the product managers have further refined the interior, including with leather-nappa covers for the instrument panel and beltlines, as well as seat belts in crystal gray. The range includes black / titanium gray pearl nappa leather with yellow contrasting topstitching as new, AMG-specific upholstery. The individually adjustable ambient lighting is also standard on board.

Another highlight is the MBUX infotainment system with touchscreen and touchpad, intelligent voice control and AMG-specific displays and settings. The two bonded displays for instrument cluster and multimedia displays merge optically under a common cover glass to form the widescreen cockpit. In the basic model, the monitors measure 10,25 inches diagonally, in the S model 12,25 inch screens are standard on board. For the view of the instrument cluster, the customer can switch between the three AMG display styles "Modern Classic", "Sport" and "Supersport". The "Supersport" mode with a central, round rev counter and perspective horizontal displays, which are to the left and right of the rev counter and create a spatial impression of depth, is particularly striking.

Via the AMG menu, the driver can call up various AMG special displays such as engine data, gear display, warm-up, set-up, G-meter and race timer. The touchscreen multimedia display also emphasizes the dynamic alignment with individual AMG displays such as the visualization of the driving programs or telemetry data.

Per you: "Hey Mercedes" with additional functions

And of course the pioneering voice control is part of the standard scope, which is activated with the call "Hey Mercedes". Thanks to artificial intelligence, MBUX recognizes and understands almost all sentences from the infotainment areas and vehicle controls, even if they are expressed indirectly. In many countries, MBUX now addresses customers with "you" instead of formally addressing them with "you". This is intended to strengthen the emotional bond between customers and MBUX as a personal assistant. Another new feature is the possibility to have the weather report read out for certain regions - in almost all languages.

AMG performance steering wheel in double-spoke design

With its distinctive double-spoke design and seamlessly integrated buttons, the new AMG Performance steering wheel creates an even closer relationship between man and machine. The three rounded double spokes combine stability with lightness, and the steering wheel rim, which is flattened at the bottom, is a typical motorsport element. The cover is available in leather, in microfiber DINAMICA or as a combination of leather and microfiber DINAMICA, with steering wheel heating on request. In addition, the steering wheel rim contains a sensor mat for recognizing “hands-on”. If the driver does not keep their hands on the steering wheel for a certain period of time, a warning cascade is started which, if the driver continues to be inactive, activates the emergency stop assistant.

Seamlessly integrated buttons

The new buttons, which are seamlessly integrated into the surfaces of the horizontal double spokes, are visually very elegant. Haptic sensing aids in the area of ​​the symbols facilitate operation. The instrument cluster is operated via the left sensor surface of the upper steering wheel spokes and the media display is operated via the right sensor surface. The lower spokes contain the control elements for cruise control / DISTRONIC (left) and telephone / hands-free system / volume control (right). The AMG steering wheel buttons (standard in the S model, optional for the E 63 basic variant and E 53 models) for controlling the drive programs and other individually definable functions have been given even more brilliant displays with new icons and are now both round.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT 9G transmission can be shifted by hand using the aluminum shift paddles located on the left and right behind the steering wheel rim. The paddles have become larger for even more precise switching commands and are positioned further down.

The center console contains an AMG-specific control element with additional switches with which the drive programs, the media volume, the 3-stage ESP®, the manual transmission mode, the adaptive adjustable damping, the optional AMG performance exhaust system, the ECO start-stop Function and control the rear view camera. In addition to the AMG sports pedal system made of brushed stainless steel with rubber knobs, door sills and black floor mats with "AMG" lettering underline the sporty appearance. For further interior customization, there is a wide range of high-quality decorative elements to choose from. The AMG trim elements in carbon give the interior a particularly sporty touch.

AMG 4,0-liter V8 biturbo engine with twin-scroll loaders 

The AMG 4,0-liter V8 biturbo engine in the E 63 S 4MATIC + (combined fuel consumption 11,9-11,6 l / 100 km; CO₂Emissions combined 273-267 g / km) unchanged at 450 kW (612 PS) and achieves a maximum torque of 850 Nm. It is available over a wide engine speed range from 2.500 to 4.500 rpm and thus conveys the feeling of superior sovereignty with every position of the accelerator pedal. The E 63 4MATIC + base model (combined fuel consumption 11,8-11,6 l / 100 km; CO₂Emissions combined 270-265 g / km) has an output of 420 kW (571 hp) and 750 Nm of torque. The sedan completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km / h in 3,4 seconds as the S version and in 3,5 seconds as the basic version. The values ​​for the T-model are 3,5 seconds (S variant) and 3,6 seconds (basic variant).

In order to optimally design the performance and responsiveness of the AMG 4,0-liter V8 engine, the two turbochargers are designed in twin-scroll technology. They reduce the exhaust gas back pressure and optimize the gas exchange. Thanks to the standard cylinder deactivation and other measures, the performance models are highly efficient. The cylinder deactivation is available in the wide speed range from 1.000 to 3.250 rpm if the driver has selected the "Comfort" driving program. A special display in the instrument cluster informs whether the cylinder deactivation is active and whether the engine is currently running in four or eight cylinder mode. The transition between these two operating states is spontaneous, fast and torque-neutral, so that the occupants do not have to accept any loss of comfort.

Unique in the competitive segment, the S variant is equipped with dynamic engine mounts. They alleviate the conflict of goals between a connection of the drive train that is as soft as possible for high comfort and a connection that is as rigid as possible for optimal driving dynamics. The dynamic bearings can quickly and continuously adjust their stiffness to the respective driving conditions and requirements. The driver benefits from greater precision when driving dynamically, and comfort is noticeably better when the bearings are controlled softly.

Inline six-cylinder with EQ Boost starter generator

The 320 kw (435 hp) 3,0-liter in-line six-cylinder in the E 53 models is characterized by top performance and intelligent electrification. The EQ Boost starter generator combines a starter and alternator in a powerful electric motor and is installed between the engine and the transmission. It is not only used as an electric generator, but also takes on hybrid functions. These include boosting with 16 kW of power and 250 Newton meters of torque, recuperation, shifting the load point, sailing and the almost imperceptible restart of the engine with the start / stop function. This innovation as well as the intelligent charging with an electric auxiliary compressor (eZV) and an exhaust gas turbocharger pursue the same goal: to increase the typical AMG performance and driving dynamics, but at the same time to reduce consumption and emissions. The starter generator assists with its boost when starting up. In addition, the electric auxiliary compressor builds up high boost pressure without delay, which means that the torque for acceleration increases more quickly until the large exhaust gas turbocharger kicks in. The 3,0-liter engine reacts extremely spontaneously and offers a highly dynamic response without the so-called turbo lag. An additional bonus is the high smoothness of the in-line six-cylinder engine.

Short shift times, high efficiency: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 9-speed transmission

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT 9-speed transmission is specially tailored to the requirements of the performance models. The independent software ensures extremely short shift times and quick multiple downshifts, while the double-declutching function ensures an emotional shift experience. In the E 63 models, a wet multi-plate start-up clutch replaces the torque converter used in the E 53 models. It saves weight and optimizes the response behavior, especially during sprints and load changes.

The highlights of the gearbox are:

• Adaptation of the shift characteristic to the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving program
• In manual "M" mode, the transmission reacts immediately to manual shift commands from the driver - the drive train reacts precisely and implements the commands at lightning speed
• The short-term M program enables a spontaneous change to manual "M" mode - simply by using the shift paddles
• Automatic double-declutching function when downshifting: this effect is automatically active in the "Sport", "Sport +" and "RACE" driving programs (standard in the S variant)
• ECO start / stop function automatically active in the "Comfort" drive program
• "Sail" function can be activated in the "Individual" drive program

Independent chassis for maximum lateral and longitudinal dynamics with increased comfort

The agility and high cornering speeds of the new models are also due to the AMG RIDE CONTROL + chassis with full-load multi-chamber air suspension and adaptive damping adjustment ADS + (Adaptive Damping System). It ensures a particularly high level of camber rigidity, driving dynamics and steering precision. With the current model upgrade, the comfort behavior of the chassis has been noticeably increased through a new set-up and revised elastokinematics, without compromising the brand-typical driving performance. The extensive measures include the new tie rod bearings on the front axle with a new mix of materials and asymmetrical pivot point, the new coordination of the dynamic engine mounts on the E 63 S, the new subframe mounts on the rear axle and the modified damper hydraulics.

The front axle consists of a four-link construction with triangular wishbones, tension struts and spring links. The independent wheel guidance and suspension elements enable high lateral accelerations with minimal drive influence on the steering system - also a comfort feature. The rear axle, which is also independent, has been specially tuned. The chassis ensures the typical comfort of a Mercedes E-Class, combined with the high precision and driving dynamics of AMG.

The three-chamber air suspension system combines exemplary driving dynamics with a high level of ride comfort thanks to a special spring-damper setup and adaptive adjustable damping. The rigidity of the air spring can be scaled over a wide range by switching individual air chambers on or off, which noticeably improves comfort behavior and driving characteristics. Depending on the selected driving program and current driving condition, three spring settings are switched; in the event of sudden load changes, fast corners, strong accelerations or strong braking, the spring rate is automatically hardened. This effectively reduces roll and pitch movements and stabilizes the performance model.

The adaptive damping can be set in the three levels "Comfort," Sport "and" Sport Plus "between relaxed long-distance comfort and maximum sportiness. The rebound and compression stages are adjusted independently of one another, and the freely programmable maps allow a wide spread between the minimum and maximum damping force. The differentiation between comfortable and sporty suspension settings is even finer and is clearly noticeable.

Fully variable all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC + with drift mode for E 63 S.

All variants are equipped with AMG Performance 4MATIC + all-wheel drive as standard. The intelligent system combines the advantages of various drive concepts: the first fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles ensures optimum traction on any surface. The driver can rely on a high level of driving safety. An electromechanically controlled clutch connects the continuously driven rear axle variably with the front axle. The best possible torque distribution is continuously calculated. The performance model can be driven continuously variable from traction-oriented all-wheel drive to pure rear-wheel drive. For even more powerful acceleration, the all-wheel drive improves traction and lateral dynamics as well as longitudinal dynamics.

Thanks to the fully variable torque distribution, the ability to drive sideways is retained. The drift mode integrated as standard in the E 63 S models is ideal for this. This can be activated in the “RACE” drive program using the shift paddles, provided that ESP® is deactivated and the transmission is in manual mode. When the drift mode is activated, the E 63 S 4MATIC + becomes a pure rear-wheel drive car. The drift mode remains switched on until the driver deactivates it.

Rear axle limited slip differential: optimal traction

To improve traction and driving dynamics, the E 63 models have an electronically controlled rear-axle locking differential. It reduces the slip on the wheel on the inside of the curve without the brake intervening. The driver can accelerate out of corners earlier and more powerfully. When braking at high speed, the vehicle remains more stable, the limited-slip differential improves traction from a standing start. The greatest advantage of the electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential is the even more sensitive and proactive control: the limit range is pushed up further and drivability is improved at the limit. The 3-stage ESP® with the functions “ESP ON”, “SPORT Handling Mode” and “ESP OFF” is precisely networked with the rear axle locking differential and the all-wheel drive and optimally matched to the high level of dynamics.

Direct and with clear feedback: AMG parameter steering

The electromechanical speed-sensitive steering has a variable ratio. She convinces with her precise and authentic feedback. The steering assistance is reduced at high speeds, and increased continuously at lower speeds. This means that relatively little effort is required to steer at low speeds, while the best possible control over the vehicle is maintained at high speeds. The steering assistance is assigned to the AMG DYNAMICS levels. A comfortable steering set-up is stored in "Basic". In "Advanced" and "Pro / Master", more feedback on the driving condition is gradually conveyed through a sportier steering set-up.

Individual experience: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT and AMG DYNAMICS

With up to six AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving programs "Smoothness", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport +", "Individual" and "RACE" (standard in the S variant), the characteristics of the new models can be influenced at the touch of a finger . The differentiation ranges from efficient and comfortable to very sporty. Important parameters such as the response behavior of the engine, transmission, chassis and steering are modified. Regardless of the DYNAMIC SELECT driving programs, the driver can switch directly to manual mode in order to only switch using the steering wheel paddles. Likewise, the chassis levels can also be selected if necessary.

The AMG DYNAMICS driving dynamics control is integrated in the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs. In the "Basic", "Advanced", "Pro" and "Master" levels (standard in the S variant), for example, it influences the control strategies of the ESP^® (Electronic stability program) or all-wheel drive. Based on the driver's actions and sensor data, the intelligent pilot control anticipates the desired vehicle behavior. The spectrum ranges from extremely stable to highly dynamic. The AMG DYNAMICS functions can also be individually selected using the AMG steering wheel buttons.

Driving-relevant parameters such as the response behavior of the engine and chassis, the control strategy of the all-wheel drive system or the control thresholds of the ESP® are intelligently adjusted depending on the driving program. The spectrum ranges from safety-oriented to highly dynamic. The "Master" mode stored in the RACE drive program ensures optimum agility and brings out the high dynamic potential in the best possible way - for example through higher yaw rates and faster response from the accelerator pedal, gearshift, electronically controlled rear axle differential lock or power distribution of the all-wheel drive.

Easy to dose and stable: the AMG high-performance composite brake system

The large, high-performance composite braking system is reliable, fast and stable even under heavy loads. At the front of the E 63, internally ventilated and perforated composite brake discs in size 360 ​​x 36 mm with 6-piston fixed callipers are mounted, on the rear axle in size 360 ​​x 26 mm with 1-piston floating callipers. The S variant has even larger composite brake discs measuring 390 x 36 mm on the front axle. The AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system is also available as an option, with brake discs measuring 402 x 39 mm on the front axle and 360 x 32 mm on the rear axle.

The high-performance braking system of the E 53 models is also designed according to the power and performance: Perforated and internally ventilated discs measuring 370 x 36 mm with four-piston fixed calipers and AMG lettering are used on the front axle, and internally ventilated discs are used on the rear axle Size 360 ​​x 26 mm with single-piston floating calipers.

The new AMG Dynamic Plus package is optionally available for the E 53 models and the E 63. It offers a noticeable and visible plus in sportiness. Selected high-performance components increase the dynamics effectively. The result is a driving experience close to racing. The package includes the high-performance composite brake system of the S model with red painted brake calipers and black AMG lettering, the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT "RACE" drive program with drift mode and the AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather or in DINAMICA microfiber or in nappa leather / DINAMICA microfiber , each with AMG steering wheel buttons.

The data at a glance

* The specified values ​​were determined according to the prescribed measuring method. It is the NEDC CO₂Values ​​in terms of
Art. 2 No. 1 Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. The fuel consumption values ​​were calculated on the basis of these values

** Electronically governed, with AMG Driver's Package 270 km / h

* The specified values ​​were determined according to the prescribed measuring method. It is the NEDC CO₂Values ​​in terms of
Art. 2 No. 1 Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. The fuel consumption values ​​were calculated on the basis of these values

** Electronically governed, with AMG Driver's Package 270 km / h

* The specified values ​​were determined according to the prescribed measuring method. It is the NEDC CO₂-Values ​​according to Art. 2 No. 1 Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. The fuel consumption values ​​were calculated on the basis of these values

** Electronically governed, with AMG Driver's Package 300 km / h

*** electronically limited

Photos: Mercedes-Benz

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