Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance

I’ve spent countless hours behind the wheel of previous generations—the W204 with its unhinged 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 that felt like it wanted to kill you, and the W205 with its twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 that brought a more controlled yet still thrilling experience. But now, we have the W206 C63 S E Performance, a car that has stirred up more controversy than any AMG before it.

With this generation, Mercedes-AMG took a bold step, replacing the legendary V8 with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid setup, delivering a staggering 500kW and 1 020Nm of torque. On paper, this is a technological marvel, but was the world ready for such a drastic shift? And more importantly, was this the right move for the most popular AMG variant?

Let’s get one thing straight—the new C63 S E Performance is mind-blowingly fast. A claimed 0–100 km/h time of 3.4 seconds puts it right up there with supercars, and thanks to the electric motor, power delivery is instant. The response is astonishing on a twisting mountain pass or a highway overtake. The all-wheel-drive 4Matic+ system ensures that all that power is usable, giving you immense confidence to push hard.

But here’s the catch—while the performance figures are undeniable, the car feels completely different from its predecessors. The thunderous V8 growl that defined the C63 is gone, replaced by a synthetic four-cylinder soundtrack that, while engineered to sound aggressive, just doesn’t evoke the same emotions. It’s not that the engine is bad—it’s actually incredible from a technical standpoint—but it doesn’t feel like a C63.

Mercedes-AMG should have introduced this hybrid C63 S E as a standalone model alongside a 4.0L Bi-Turbo V8 W206 C63 with mild hybridisation and 4Matic+.

This would have allowed Mercedes to showcase their cutting-edge hybrid technology without alienating the loyal V8 fanbase. Enthusiasts who wanted the latest performance innovation could have opted for the hybrid model. At the same time, those who value the character and soul of a V8 could still enjoy a more traditional AMG experience. Instead, AMG took a one-size-fits-all approach, assuming everyone would embrace downsizing and electrification. Judging by the backlash, that assumption was incorrect.

One of the highlights of the new C63 S E Performance is how seamlessly the hybrid system integrates into daily driving.

• In electric-only mode, I cruised through small towns between Johannesburg and East London in complete silence, a surreal experience in a C63.
• On the open road, the car allows you to recharge the battery at the flick of a switch, and within a few minutes of spirited driving, the battery is back to 100%. Unlike other plug-in hybrids, the C63 never needs to be plugged into a wall socket—it regenerates all its charge while driving.

A plug-in hybrid makes sense in something like the S-Class, where efficiency and smoothness are priorities. But in an AMG? The added weight of the hybrid system (2111kg—over 300kg heavier than the W205 C63!) affects agility and ride quality. The extra complexity of the system also raises concerns about long-term reliability and cost of ownership.

For me, this car is proof that just because a manufacturer can implement a specific technology doesn’t always mean they should.

In South Africa, the C63 S E Performance starts at R2 277 520, positioning it above key rivals:

• BMW M3 Competition xDrive – R2 175 000
• Audi RS4 Avant – R1 569 900

When you consider that the M3 still offers a characterful straight-six with traditional performance DNA, and the Audi RS models deliver a fantastic blend of power and usability, it’s tough to justify the C63’s higher price tag—especially when it no longer offers the defining feature that set it apart from the rest: the V8 experience.

If there’s one area where the new C63 shines, it’s the interior.

• AMG Performance seats wrap around you perfectly, providing comfort and support.
• The steering wheel and trim details feel incredibly premium, reminding you you’re in a top-tier AMG model.
• MBUX infotainment is as cutting-edge as ever, with custom AMG displays allowing you to monitor the hybrid system, battery usage, and real-time performance data.

While I appreciate the craftsmanship, it’s hard to ignore that this level of tech and luxury makes the car feel slightly less raw than previous AMGs. There was a time when C63s felt like a muscle car in a suit. This one feels more like a tech showcase on wheels.

The W206 C63 S E Performance is an incredible feat of engineering. It’s blisteringly fast, packed with innovative technology, and undeniably capable. But the problem is it doesn’t feel like a C63 anymore.

That being said, if you can look past the heritage and expectations that come with the C63 nameplate, the new model is an absolute weapon. But if you grew up loving the V8 AMG experience, this one might take some getting used to.

Sean Claase – Automotive South Africa

www.mercedes-benz.co.za