Following the debut of the 2018 updated Mercedes-AMG C 43, the Stuttgart-based company has now unveiled the fire-breathing C 63 V8 version. It shows off a new-look front end and receives some powertrain revisions.
Starting with the powertrain, Mercedes has added its latest 9G nine-speed automatic transmission to the updated model, which offers a wet start-off clutch for more agile shifting response, the company says. No changes are made to the engine. It remains as the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that produces either 350kW or 375kW (only 375kW ‘S’ is offered in Australia).
This is all sent to the rear wheels via a new electronically-controlled limited-slip differential, standard for all C 63 models. There’s also AMG Ride Control steel suspension as standard, with adaptive dampers, dynamic engine mounts, and more driving modes to select from. Across the 0-100km/h sprint, the new model takes as little as 4.0 seconds for the 350kW version, or 3.9 seconds for the 375kW tune.
Visually, the 2018 model gets a fresh grille with vertical slats in high-gloss chrome, swapping from the outgoing horizontal layout, with a revised front apron using the A-wing design that is designed to provide a greater perception of width. We also see updated side skirts and new-look alloy wheels measuring 18 inches or 19s for the S variant.
Inside is the latest Touch Control interface system, with a 12.3-inch wide-screen display. Drivers can configure Classic, Sporty, or Supersport themes for the interface, each providing a different layout of controls and tones. An AMG menu has been added so the driver can all up various gauges and settings too, including a g-force gauge, lap timer, and current vehicle status.
In terms of the driving modes, drivers can now select between Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Race, and an Individual mode for customisation. AMG Dynamics can also be adjusted, from Basic, Advanced, Pro and Master, each adjusting the engine response and stability control.
The updated model will go on sale in Europe in June, in sedan, coupe, wagon and cabriolet forms. Australian prices and specs are yet to be confirmed.
