AMG’s V8 E-Class bows out with a limited edition model before it returns with a four-cylinder PHEV.
The new Mercedes-AMG E63 Final Edition brings production of Affalterbach’s pure-combustion V8 sports sedans to a close.
It has been revealed in the wake of two concept cars previewing the electrified future of Mercedes’s performance division, the outlandish Vision AMG and a prototype for the next-generation C63 PHEV. The E63 Final Edition serves as a swansong for Mercedes-AMG’s pure-combustion sports sedans – a lineage that dates back to the W124-generation E-Class ‘Hammer’ of 1986 – then the world’s fastest sedan.
The V8 engine will continue to play a part in AMG’s future – it produces some 430kW in the hottest version of the new SL and is used in an 611kW plug-in hybrid system in the new GT 63 S E-Performance – but will be swapped out for an electrified four-cylinder unit in the next E63.
When it arrives, likely in 2024, the next-generation E63 will use a variant of the same PHEV system destined for its smaller C63 sibling. Officially detailed last week, this set-up comprises a 350kW 2.0-litre petrol engine – the most powerful four-cylinder in series production – and a 150kW EV motor on the rear axle for a total output of 500kW.
If that PHEV drivetrain is carried over wholesale to the next E63, it will give it a 57kW edge over the current V8 car – and could see it improve upon its 3.5sec 0-100km/h time and 290km/h top speed.
But for now, in Final Edition form, the E63 soldiers on with the eight-cylinder lump, sending 450kW and 850Nm to both axles through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Just 999 examples of the run-out model will be produced, marked out from the standard car by bespoke matt grey paint and a distinctive black decal set – matched by black wheels, badging, exhaust pipes and exterior trim elements.
The bespoke treatment continues inside as well, with contrasting yellow stitching for the grey/black kappa leather seats and steering wheel. Final Edition badging has been applied to the centre console, along with a build number, and the door sills feature yellow illuminated AMG motifs.
AMG has yet to reveal how many examples will make it to Australia, nor how much the special edition costs compared to the standard car.
Felix Page