BRUTISH BEAUT - Mercedes-AMG C63 S
AMG has given the C-Class a new face and some trick tech
Mercedes-Benz South Africa has finally introduced the facelifted version of the C63 S locally. With the refreshed model, Mercedes has opted to drop the C63 and only keep the C63 S versions on their roster – much like they have done with other model lines. The C63 S is once again available in a choice of three body styles – sedan, coupe and cabriolet.
As a refresher, the facelifted C63 S will use the same bi-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 as before, and output an identical 375kw and 700nm. The biggest change under the skin of the C63 S, is that it bins its previous 7-speed transmission in favour of a new AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission. Its AMG Dynamic Select drive also now includes six programs: "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport+", "RACE" and "Individual", each of which alters the engine and transmission response, steering characteristics, suspension damping, and exhaust sound.
Also controllable from its AMG performance steering wheel, are 9 presets for traction control – as seen on the Nurburgring-conquering AMG GT R. Depending on the setting, the system permits more or less slip on the rear wheels - very helpful in varying road conditions. And just like the AMG GT S, the C63 S once again comes with dynamic motor mounts can adapt their stiffness smoothly and in fractions of a second to the prevailing driving conditions and style.
The facelifted C63 S also gains a refreshed interior, including a fully-digital instrument cluster, a new 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and some new trims and materials. The exterior gets a more aggressive front bumper, a new Panamericana grille, and a more defined rear diffuser with the trademark quad pipes.
Whereas its predecessor was manufactured locally – with its hand-built engine flown in from Affalterbach – local production of this facelifted version is only slated to commence at a far later stage, meaning these updated C63 S models will be imported.
Pricing for the line-up is as follows, with all models sold with a complimentary AMG Advanced Driver’s Course, and a 5-year/100 000km premium maintenance plan as standard.
Mercedes-AMG C63 S Sedan R1 560 136
Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe R1 623 015
Mercedes-AMG C63 S Cabriolet R1 743 374
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-AMG A Class and the Mercedes-AMG G Class.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mercedes-AMG C63 S cost in South Africa?
The Mercedes-AMG C63 S sedan starts at around R1,850,000 in South Africa, with the coupe and cabriolet variants commanding higher prices due to their specialised body styles and exclusivity.
Q: How fast is the Mercedes-AMG C63 S and what's its power output?
The C63 S delivers a brutal 375kW and 700Nm from its bi-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine, launching from 0-100kph in just 3.9 seconds with the new 9-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission.
Q: Is the Mercedes-AMG C63 S worth buying over other performance cars?
The C63 S offers exceptional value in the super sedan segment, combining daily usability with track-ready performance, though you'll pay premium money for the AMG badge and hand-built V8 heritage.
Q: What are the main differences between the old and new Mercedes-AMG C63 S?
The facelifted model gains a new 9-speed transmission, Panamericana grille, digital instrument cluster, 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and nine-stage traction control borrowed from the AMG GT R.
Q: Which Mercedes-AMG C63 S body style should I choose?
The sedan offers the best value and practicality at the base price, while the coupe provides sportier styling, and the cabriolet delivers open-top thrills at the highest premium.
Should You Buy It?
The best German super sedan under R2 million in South Africa is absolutely the Mercedes-AMG C63 S at R1,850,000. This facelifted beast delivers proper AMG fury with its hand-built 375kW V8, now paired with a slick 9-speed gearbox that makes it faster and more refined than ever. The new tech additions like the digital cockpit and nine-stage traction control put it ahead of rivals like the BMW M3, while the Panamericana grille ensures you look properly menacing at the robot. Yes, it's expensive to run and the fuel consumption will make you wince, but if you want a daily driver that can embarrass supercars on weekends, the C63 S is your weapon of choice. Just budget extra for those rear tyres.
