With our appetite for performance cars, it makes sense that Mercedes-AMG constantly expands and indeed, updates its offerings. I travelled to Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Midrand, recently to see the all-new 53 range by Mercedes-AMG as well as the updated C63 S.
The numbers game
The recent model additions to the AMG line-up have made the brand more accessible to you and me and has helped AMG grow globally, with some 118 204 AMG models being sold in 2018. Take the introduction of the 45 series models some six years ago in the A, CLA and GLA models as an example.
Since then, we’ve seen the emergence of the AMG 43 series in the C-Class, GLC, GLE and E-Class which has helped satiate the need for a more attainable performance car below the 63 range. Soon, we’ll have an A35 too, but for now, the newest model range to hit local shores is the 53, in the form of the E-Class Coupe, Cabriolet and the svelte CLS 53.
In very basic terms, the 53 range represents vehicles with the brand’s new 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine that produces 320 kW and 520 N.m of torque that works in unison with an electric auxiliary compressor called EQ Boost. The electric motor provides a temporary boost in power and torque which equates to 16 kW and 250 N.m of torque while powering the 48-volt on-board electronics.
All three models feature similar performance with the CLS 53 and E-Class Cabriolet getting to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds while the E-class Coupe does the same sprint in 4.4 seconds thanks to the inclusion of the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system that can send power to the front and rear wheels as it sees fit.
Driving 53
The performance and indeed, the howl from the new in-line six motor is impressive, but a reminder that these are a mixture of luxury and performance vehicles sprung to mind around the circuit. Despite the lump of torque, which, at times can exceed 750 N.m when exiting corners, the 53 models feel more soft-edged than the full-fat AMG models, which I suppose was the intention of the engineers who set the cars up. This should make the 53 range superb road cars with ample performance and luxury, with those seeking more having to spring for the most costly 63 variants available in other AMG models.
The updated C63 S
The world’s best-selling AMG, the C63 has been updated and is now built right here in South Africa. The local line-up will only consist of the “S” models from now on, however, the sedan, coupe and cabriolet variants remain as the body styles on offer. In terms of the exterior updates, the hottest C-Class gets the Panamericana grille as seen on the AMG GT R while there have also been subtle revisions to the front and rear bumpers as well as a newly shaped rear diffuser and AMG lightweight alloy wheels.
The interior is where the updates can be seen and indeed felt most prominently with new open-pore wood options for the interior trim, the (optional) fully digitised infotainment and instrument cluster and a new AMG steering wheel which looks similar to that seen on the regular C-Class, but with the option of two switches on either side of the steering wheel spokes. The left-hand switch controls the suspension set-up and the gearbox settings while on the right-hand side there’s a toggle switch for the driving modes and traction control system which allows the driver to dial in their preferred settings.
Driving C63 S
The revised C63 S receives the same hand-assembled 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine with 375 kW and 700 N.m of torque which is now mated to a nine-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that has made the shifts faster, the car more efficient and indeed, more approachable from a performance perspective. Since this might just be the very last AMG to be rear-wheel-drive only, it was quite a special experience to drive, with the electronically controlled rear differential doing the job around Kyalami.
The way that the most potent C-Class delivers its performance and indeed, the muscle car soundtrack provided by the V8 is something will certainly be missed in the all-electric future. The zero to 100 km/h mark now comes up in just 3.9 seconds and the hard-top variants will be roaring all the way to 290 km/h.
Verdict
Driving the latest AMG machinery around one of the world’s most famous racing circuits reminded me of how well the AMG brand has structured its product line-up. There really is a performance Mercedes for everyone these days, well those who can afford the privilege, that is. Look out for more in-depth reviews on these newcomers in our Road Test section soon.
Pricing
C63 S Sedan – R1 546 600
Coupe – R1 609 100
Cabriolet – R1 728 700
CLS 53 4Matic+ – R1 491 600
E53 4Matic+ Coupe – R1 311 700
Cabriolet – R1 430 600
