At the North American International Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the new facelifted C-Class, which carries many of the same styling cues and aggressive character lines of the larger E- and S-Class models. As a follow-up, the German luxury automaker will unveil the AMG version of this entry-level sedan at the Geneva Auto Show in early March.
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG sedan retains the same normally aspirated 6.2-liter V-8 as the previous models instead of switching over to the new twin-turbo 5.5-liter V-8 used by the larger AMG models including the S, CL and CLS. While the standard AMG package will again make 451 bhp and 443 lb.-ft. of torque, a new AMG Development Package option bumps that output to 481 bhp.
That package includes lightweight AMG forged pistons and connecting rods, a revised crankshaft and engine-control system. The electronically limited top speed is also raised from 155 to 174 mph. Development Package cars are also equipped with high-performance brakes featuring two-piece 14.2-in. rotors clamped by red calipers. Other hardware includes a carbon-fiber trunk lid spoiler, exclusive engine intake runners finished in titanium gray and an AMG sport steering wheel.
All C63 AMG models will be equipped with the 7-speed MCT single-clutch automatic transmission, which features four shift modes and launch control, which Mercedes calls a Race Start Function. The suspension is carried over, including the 3-link independent front struts with a multilink rear. Like all AMG models, track is increased over the standard car to improve handling.
New Driver-Assist Systems
Advanced driver-assist systems used on more senior Mercedes models are also filtering their way down to the C-Class range, and the AMG is no exception. Chief among them is the new attention-assist program that monitors the driver’s steering inputs to establish a performance baseline. If, over time, the inputs vary from the baseline, a warning is sounded to let the driver know that it’s time to take a break. In addition to this, there are systems that monitor lane departure and blind spots, plus there’s an active lighting system that automatically dips the high beams when oncoming traffic is detected. That technology also shapes the light beam to increase illumination on the side of the road and toward the inside of turns. Also offered for the first time is an advanced parking guidance option that helps you determine if the curbside spot is large enough for the car.
The C63 AMG sedan rides on 18-in. twin 5-spoke alloy wheels shod with 235/40R-18 front and 255/35R-18 rear high-performance tires. In addition to a more aggressive look with additional air intakes and side skirts, the AMG is also distinguished by its twin chrome exhaust tips.
Other new exterior design cues include LED tail lamps and a new color, Lunar Blue. Upgrades to the interior features a new Black Ash wood trim, Bluetooth audio streaming, HD radio, a new central controller with a 5.8-in. screen, a 4.5-in. color display for the instruments, and a new steering wheel with auxiliary controls