Mercedes-Benz unveiled the new 2024 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE today, claiming it’s a game-changer in the 55-year history of AMG. In actuality, it’s just more proof on why hybrids suck.
The C 63 S E PERFORMANCE replaces the old 4.0-liter twin turbo V8 with a 2.0-liter four banger that makes an impressive 469 hp. An electric motor at the rear adds another 202 hp to bring total system power to 671 hp. AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive and active rear axle steering completes the performance upgrades.
The problem with all this is added weight. The car now tips the scale at a whopping 4,654 pounds (2,111 kg). That’s over 600 pounds heavier than the all electric Tesla Model 3 Performance. As a results, the 3.3 seconds zero to 60 mph time of AMG is slower than the Tesla, even though the Mercedes has more power. What’s worst, the electric motor only comes on under hard acceleration. Under normal driving conditions, it’s just a 469 hp sedan that’s lugging along the dead weight added by a heavy electric motor and battery pack.
It’s best to think of the electric setup on the AMG like the “NOS” setup from the Fast and Furious movies. It comes on when you need it. The difference is a 202 shot of NOS doesn’t add 600 pounds of weight!
You can drive the car in electric only mode, but your trip better not be more than 8 miles (13 km) because the battery pack has only 6.1 kWh of capacity. Also, you can’t exceed 81 mph, or the gas motor will come on. The 81 mph limit is fine, but an 8 mile EV only range is a joke. Adding a bigger battery would make the car heavier than the hippo that it already is.
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE will go sale in the US in the second half of next year. Prices have not yet been announced.
