Technology is changing faster than we think and more so in the automotive space today where carmakers are navigating tricky waters. Afterall, everyone is talking about electrification but it's still an ongoing journey and the bigger issue is for performance car makers as to how to make a car as appealing as possible with keeping the tighter emissions in mind.
The C63 AMG is perhaps the best example since this is the fastest version of the C-Class and an iconic performance car known for its V8 power. However, now the new C63 SE Performance has gone hybrid with a complex four cylinder turbo powertrain replacing the V8 engine. It is the fastest four cylinder engine but with another electric motor at the back, the total power rises to 680 bhp and 1020 Nm.
This is supercar performance crammed in a C-Class and the 0-100 km/h time of 3.4 seconds is something you need to drive it to believe it. In order word, the new C63 SE will humiliate supercars but carry you and your family back home. More than the performance, the dual character surprised me.
You start in electric mode (13-km range) and cruise around in silence while a twist of the drive mode wakes up the engine or pressing the accelerator harder. While the acceleration is ferocious, it cruises comfortably most of the time and is easy to drive so much that you forget it has so much power.
That said, it looks pretty appealing with a lowered, wider stance and yes, it gets a lot of looks. The AMG grille, those 20-inch alloys and the exhausts are all signs of this being not an ordinary C-Class. Inside too, the C63 has a special carbon dash plus with sport seats and a thicker steering wheel along with the screen having AMG specific functions.
There are tons of data regarding performance and even race tracks are mapped out. The rear seat space is decent while the battery does eat into the boot space. We did not face any issues with the ground clearance but it is low and requires caution. That said, it is much easier to drive than a supercar and yet the performance is just brutal.
While this powertrain may not sound as good as a V8, the engine has the louder exhaust note when driven in Race or Sport Plus mode while its handling is confidence inspiring with giving you the encouragement to push it harder. It is a fast car but not hard to drive and you can drive it everyday.
Priced at Rs 1.95 crore, the new C63 might seem expensive but we need to remove the preconceived notions with the car and just drive it which will impress you. It is fast, fun but approachable, unlike the previous C63. Overall, for someone who wants speed and performance but also with more practicality, the new C63 SE is worth a look.
What we like: Performance, looks, quality, handling, hybrid powertrain, easy to drive.
What we do not like: Expensive, hybrid powertrain not as loud as a V8.
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