2015 Mercedes-AMG C63 : Official details and image gallery

One crucial piece of information that avoided being outed ahead of time is the model’s new name, which follows the lead of the Mercedes-AMG GT coupe in dropping the Benz name.

Also confirmed is the C63’s impressive fuel economy. The new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8-powered performance model is up to 32 per cent more efficient than its 6.2-litre V8-powered predecessor, achieving a combined cycle figure as low as 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres.

Both the Mercedes-AMG C63 and C63 S sedans are capable of that fuel figure, down from 12.1L/100km in the current C63 AMG, while the wagon versions are rated at 8.4L/100km, down from 12.3L/100km.

The efficiency gains are achieved despite the new C63’s 4.0-litre engine producing more power and significantly more torque than the old 336kW/600Nm 6.2-litre.

The Mercedes-AMG C63 produces 350kW between 5500-6200rpm and 650Nm between 1750-4500rpm, while the C63 S pumps out 375kW and 700Nm at the same engine speeds. Both are available exclusively in rear-wheel drive, with no word at this stage of plans for all-wheel-drive variants despite rumblings of such models being added in the near future.

As revealed yesterday, the regular C63 will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 4.1 seconds, while the amped-up C63 S will shave off one-tenth to stop the clock in four second flat. The wagon versions of each are 0.1sec slower to triple figures. The outgoing C63 AMG took 4.4 seconds to reach 100km/h from rest, while even the high-performance Edition 507 variant could only manage a 4.2sec sprint.

Crucially, the C63 S sedan beats the new BMW M3 to 100km/h by 0.1sec, handing Affalterbach’s engineers bragging rights over their Bavarian rivals. The C63 S wagon also leaves the Audi RS4 half a second behind.

Mercedes-AMG’s new engine is paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, which the car maker says has been extensively redeveloped for its new application. It promises “significantly more spontaneous” gear changes from the new transmission, particularly in its new Race mode, which is exclusive to the C63 S. Controlled Efficiency, Sport, and Sport + modes selected via the AMG Dynamic Select switch likewise alter the transmission’s response.

Dynamic engine mounts – as used in the Mercedes-AMG GT – are said to reduce the vibration from the engine/transmission unit by adapting their stiffness according to the driving conditions, while a performance exhaust system with three switchable exhaust flaps is available as an option to extract the most from the new powerplant.

The C63’s AMG Ride Control suspension features three-stage adjustable damping, intended to offer both maximum sporting performance and comfort for long-distance driving.

The regular model features a mechanical locking rear differential, while the C63 S gets an electronic locking rear diff. Both serve to reduce slip on the inside wheel without braking input, though Mercedes says the electronic system reacts more quickly and offers more finely tuned control.

The standard three-stage electronic stability control system includes ESP On, Sport Handling Mode, and ESP Off.

The C63 runs on 18-inch 10-spoke grey painted and polished alloy wheels, while the C63 S gets larger 19s. For the first time, a high-performance carbon-ceramic brake system is available as an option to the standard stoppers.

The cabin features a host of AMG-specific components and finishes, headlined by its sports seats, three-spoke flat-bottom sports steering wheel, stainless steel pedals, unique upholstery and trim materials, and AMG badges.

Exclusive Mercedes-AMG C63 and C63 S Edition 1 versions will be available at launch with unique 19-inch alloys, Night Package with black exterior trim elements, red grille and mirror decals, and matt grey sport stripes.

Mercedes-Benz Australia says the new high-performance C-Class will reach our shores around the middle of next year. At this stage the C63 S is the only variant confirmed for our market, with the local division still to confirm if the regular C63 and Edition 1 will also be offered. Pricing will be announced closer to the C63's Australian release. The outgoing C63 AMG is priced from $154,545.

Click the photos tab for more images of the 2015 Mercedes-AMG C63.