Introducing the latest edition of the now long-running Mercedes-AMG C63. Renewed with a 2-litre 4-cylinder and hybrid technology, it’s safe to say Mercedes has taken a very different approach with this latest C63, veering from their usual formula of a beefy V8 and low, rumbling exhaust note. This may come as a surprise to some, but with the entire automotive world heading towards a more sustainable future, Mercedes were not immune.

Despite the drastic change under the bonnet, performance is not lost in the slightest. In fact, this new C63 is the fastest to ever hit the production line, thanks to an ultra-torquey electric motor delivering blisteringly quick acceleration. 0-62mph is tackled in an incredibly impressive 3.5 seconds, thanks to 680bhp driving all four wheels. The 4-cylinder engine now found in the C63 is based on that of the A45 S, so while it may not match the character of previous engines in the C63, owners can still rest assured that this is a reliable and powerful block. The engine itself produces a healthy 476bhp, with the electric motor contributing an additional 204bhp.

Externally, the C63 looks as mean as ever, with an overhaul to the looks to keep it aligned with Mercedes’ latest design language. An aggressive front-end sporting large, aggressive grilles, wide arches and bonnet bulge means you’ll make no mistake with this being a true ‘63’ car, regardless of what lies under the hood. Other changes made over the standard C-Class include lowered suspension, aggressive side skirts, a rear lip spoiler (for the saloon and coupe) and even the inclusion of the usual quad exhaust tips. Sporty bucket seats and plenty of carbon fibre contribute heavily towards a more performance-focused interior, with the inclusion of an AMG steering wheel being the icing on the cake. 

The latest C63 may be different and unorthodox when compared with its predecessors, but surprisingly, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Its capability has never been greater, with the numbers more than speaking for themselves. The C63 still looks and feels as it should, with the usual Mercedes build quality and attention to detail and regardless of the lack of V8, still fits the bill as a true performance family car.