14 photos
Mercedes just announced what it’s calling an “extensive update” to the AMG E63 S sedan and wagon for the 2021 model year. While we love the sedan version, it’s the two-box version — the reigning apex predator of the American station wagon market — that truly has our heart, so we were particularly glad to see it confirmed that it’ll be sticking around.
We don’t know when the updated E63s will arrive yet (though late 2020 seems reasonable) or how much they will cost (probably around $115,000), but there is plenty that we do know about the refreshed E63. Here’s what you need to know.
It’s not getting more power
Mercedes didn’t tweak the power output, so you’ll still have to make do with a handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter biturbo V8 putting out 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Still, that can launch the wagon version from 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds. You also still get Mercedes’ 4Matic+ system, which delivers all-wheel-drive when you need it…and a tire-shredding drift mode when you want it.
Mercedes says it will be more comfortable
The most significant change — and likely the one most dictated by owner feedback — will be how comfortable the car is. Performance cars require a stiff suspension, but hooning the AMG E63 S around a track is not how most people are going to drive it. The 2021 version offers AMG Ride Control+ as well as an ADS+ Adaptive Damping System with three different suspension settings, so owners can better tweak it to their tastes. Like fancier Porsche 911s, the AMG E63 S will also have dynamic engine mounts to adjust the powertrain rigidity depending on requirements.
It will look a bit different
The AMG E63 S will now be using the new AMG design language we’ve seen with the AMG GLE63 S and other vehicles. The new front end has a bigger A-shaped Panamericana grille with a bigger star, prominent vertical slats and no horizontal bar. The headlights look a bit more purposeful.
On the inside, you’re getting the new so-called widescreen cockpit with dual high-def displays, a new AMG performance steering wheel and the latest edition of Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment — which, despite annoying the hell out of journalists, may prove immensely profitable.
