By Khulekani Dumisa

The updated C 63 S has been launched. The best selling AMG model retains the familiar AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine which puts out 375 kW and 700 Nm. Depending on body style, the C 63 S accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. The C 63 S Sedan and Coupé have a top speed of 290 km/h, and the C 63 S Cabriolet reaches 280 km/h.

Previously this AMG employed a 7-speed transmission and one of the big new features in the C 63 S is the AMG SpeedShift MCT 9G transmission. The new transmission is said to allow faster bursts of speed and more spontaneous responses to the driver’s accelerator pedal input.

Inside, the C 63 S follows the updated C-Class in terms of look and finish. A new flat-bottomed AMG steering with new Touch control buttons has been introduced. These allow the driver to change drive modes, gearbox and suspension settings with relative ease. Additionally, an optional fully digital instrument cluster in front of the driver with 12.3-inch screen diagonal is available.

Outside the C63s doesn’t change much except it gains a rather prominent Panamericana (AMG) grille which makes the car stand out more. The front bumper sees some tweaks with redesigned outer air inlets. At the back, you get redesigned twin tailpipes with high-gloss chrome trim and rear diffuser.

Pricing:

Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Sedan: R1,546,600
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Coupé: R1,609,100
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Cabriolet: R1,728,700