Overview
Life is short: Skip the SUV and drive a real performance car. Might we suggest the absolutely ballistic 2023 Mercedes-Benz C63 S? This twin-turbo two-door boasts a 503-hp V-8 powertrain and a chassis laser-focused handling, making it one of the most brutish models in Mercedes-AMG’s product portfolio. It doesn’t ride like a luxury car though it offers plenty of high-end features and premium materials inside its well-equipped cabin. It should be noted that the C63 offered this year rides on the previous-generation C-class platform, so those seeking the latest and greatest should consider waiting for next year’s 2024 model, which will be offered only as a sedan and will be powered by an even-more-ballistic 671-hp, turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain.
What’s New for 2023?
After taking the 2022 model year off, the C63 is back for a final run of 2023 coupe and convertible models before an all-new generation drops for the 2024 model year. The 2023 C63 is offered only in the more powerful S guise and will be the last of the nameplate to be powered by a twin-turbo V-8 engine.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
While you might prefer the style of the convertible, our money goes to the coupe for the additional structural rigidity supplied by its solid roof. We’d also add the Intelligent Light System package to get adaptive LED headlights and we’d pop for the AMG Performance front seats, because they are exceptionally supportive.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2023 Mercedes-AMG C63 S comes with a hand-built, twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine that makes 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed automatic routes power to the rear wheels; all-wheel drive is not an option. In our testing, the C63 S coupe went from zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and ripped through the quarter-mile in 12.0 seconds at 121 mph. The convertible was nearly as quick, hitting 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and passing the quarter mile in 12.2 seconds at 119 mph. In Lightning Lap 2019, a C63 S coupe turned in a 2:57.1 lap, which puts it right behind the now-discontinued Cadillac CTS-V on our all-time list. All C63s come standard with an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential and an AMG Ride Control suspension with adaptive dampers. Handling is, as you’d expect, beyond excellent. Equipped with summer tires, the C63 S managed 1.02 g’s of lateral acceleration on our skidpad and braked from 70 mph to a stop in just 157 feet. This capability comes at the price of comfort, as the ride is harsh over rough pavement.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
There’s little difference in EPA fuel economy ratings between the coupe and convertible models, but the coupe is technically more efficient with ratings of 17 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The convertible is rated for 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. For more information about the C63’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Leather upholstery is standard and both models can be ordered with your choice of wood or aluminum interior accents. We’re big fans of the available AMG Performance seats, which have a ventilation feature. This is an elegant car at heart, and both the materials and the ambience are in keeping with the high asking price. You can also load up on technology in the cockpit should you want. The C63 coupe has a 10.5-cubic-foot cargo hold while the Cabriolet’s measures a smaller 8.8 cubic feet. Both have a folding rear seat but while the coupe’s folds in a 40/20/40 configuration, the convertible model offers a 50/50 split.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The standard setup in the C63 is a 10.3-inch infotainment interface with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration and two USB ports. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is standard, as is a Burmester surround-sound audio system is also standard, and a six-month trial for SiriusXM satellite radio. Options include factory navigation and a head-up display. You might also want to consider the optional AMG Drive Unit, which provides quick-access buttons on the steering wheel to adjust the car’s many drivetrain and chassis settings. Another option is AMG Track Pace, which lets you store performance data from your vehicle in the infotainment interface when you’re driving on a road course.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Every C63 comes equipped with basic safety features such as a forward-collision system and blind-spot monitoring. Additional driver-assistance aids are available, including adaptive cruise control with automatic resume capability in stop-and-go traffic. These items are part of the Driver Assistance package, which must be purchased in combination with the Multimedia package. For more information about the C63’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision system with automated braking
- Standard blind-spot monitoring, available blind-spot assist
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Mercedes-AMG’s warranty is nothing special for this price range. Instead of complimentary scheduled maintenance, there are prepaid maintenance plans available at extra cost when you purchase your C63.
- Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Specifications
Source: www.caranddriver.com