Mercedes-AMG C63 family refreshed at 2018 New York Auto Show
Mercedes-AMG brought the updated C63 range to New York, showing all four body styles with new styling, tech and transmission tweaks for the 2019 model year.
Mercedes-AMG presented the facelifted C63 line-up at the 2018 New York Auto Show, offering a comprehensive update to its high-performance C-Class models. The event saw the unveiling of all four body styles: saloon, estate, coupe, and cabriolet. These updates focused on subtle yet significant changes to styling, technology, and transmission, while the core engine remained unchanged.
Overview of the 2018 Mercedes-AMG C63 Family at the New York Auto Show
Styling and Body Styles
For the first time, the entire C63 family adopted the AMG Panamericana grille, a design element previously reserved for other AMG models. This grille, with its vertical slats, gave the C63 a more aggressive and unified appearance across the range. The front bumper and rear diffuser were reshaped to provide a refreshed look, though Mercedes-AMG deliberately kept these changes subtle to maintain the model’s established identity. Quad exhaust tips finished in high-gloss chrome and new wheel designs rounded out the exterior updates.
The estate version remained exclusive to the European market, while the saloon, coupe, and cabriolet were showcased for global audiences. Each body style was designed to cater to different preferences, from the practical estate to the focused coupe and the open-top cabriolet.
- C63 Saloon: Traditional four-door performance sedan
- C63 Estate: Practical load space, Europe-only
- C63 Coupe: Two-door, sporty styling
- C63 Cabriolet: Open-top driving experience
Powertrain and Transmission Updates
The facelift did not bring changes to the engine. The C63 continued with the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo, delivering 476 hp in the standard model and 510 hp in the C63 S. Torque figures were 650 Nm for the base version and 700 Nm for the S. The most notable mechanical update was the introduction of the AMG Speedshift MCT 9G transmission, which replaced the previous 7-speed unit. This new 9-speed gearbox features a wet start-off clutch, designed to improve response and shift quality. Despite these updates, the performance figures remained the same, with the C63 S saloon and coupe capable of reaching up to 290 km/h where speed limits allow.
| Engine | 4.0-litre V8 biturbo |
|---|---|
| Power | 510 hp (375 kW) |
| Torque | 700 Nm |
| Transmission | AMG Speedshift MCT 9G |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.0 seconds (saloon) |
| Top speed | 290 km/h (saloon/coupe) |
The decision to keep the V8 unchanged was notable, as it placed the emphasis on improving driving dynamics and technology rather than increasing outright power. The transmission upgrade was a key part of this strategy, aiming to deliver a more responsive and engaging driving experience.
Interior and Technology Enhancements
Inside, the facelifted C63 family received a series of technology and comfort upgrades. A fully digital instrument cluster with a 12.3-inch display became available, featuring AMG-specific graphics to provide drivers with customisable and detailed driving information. The latest AMG steering wheel was also introduced, equipped with Touch Control buttons for easier access to various functions while driving.
Additional interior updates included new trim options and the availability of climatized Performance seats, which aimed to increase both comfort and customisation for buyers. These changes brought the C63 in line with updates already seen on the lesser C43 models, ensuring a consistent interior experience across the AMG C-Class range.
Market Position and Availability
The facelifted C63 range continued to appeal to performance enthusiasts looking for a blend of everyday usability and high-performance credentials. While the estate remained a Europe-only offering, the saloon, coupe, and cabriolet were available in multiple markets, highlighting Mercedes-AMG’s commitment to offering variety within its performance line-up.
The 2018 update also reflected broader trends in the performance car segment, with manufacturers increasingly focusing on technology and driving dynamics rather than simply boosting power outputs. By refining the C63’s transmission and interior, Mercedes-AMG aimed to keep the model competitive against rivals from BMW M and Audi Sport.
Summary of Key Changes for 2019
- Panamericana grille standard across all C63 variants
- Subtle exterior updates to bumpers, diffuser, and wheels
- New AMG Speedshift MCT 9G transmission with wet clutch
- Retained 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine (476 hp/510 hp)
- Digital instrument cluster and new AMG steering wheel
- Additional interior trim and seat options
