Style. Speed. Fuel efficiency. Mercedes’ highest-performing C-class sedan offers luxury and power—with only as many cylinders as a base model compact car.
That’s right. The 2024 C 63 S E replaces the thunderous V8 with a 2.0-liter inline four. While die-hard gearheads might lament this change, incorrectly assuming a lag in acceleration, this top-of-the-line hybrid will hits 60 mph in 2.9 seconds.
The small displacement motor is mated to a 9-speed automatic that routes power to the rear axle via Mercedes’ signature 4Matic all-wheel-drive system that was designed to improve handling, safety, and overall ride comfort. And it’s augmented by a 201-hp electric motor and an electric turbocharger.
Appearance-wise, the C 63 hybrid looks much like the standard C-class. The Performance model sports AMG’s vertical slat grille with inlets on either side. The fenders have been widened, adding 2.6 inches to the car’s stance. Nineteen-inch wheels come standard (our test vehicle featured the 20-inch multispoke Y-design wheel, which are available for an additional $1,750), and the optional Performance Design Package (an add-on at $4,000) adds red brake calipers and additional styling, as well a higher top speed of 174 mph.
Inside, the cabin maintains the C-class aesthetic. In the center of the console, a tablet-style touchscreen replaces physical knobs and controls. Its complemented by a digital gauge display. The optional carbon fiber Performance steering wheel ($400) includes two controllers for various drive modes, while the Napa leather Performance seats ($2,500) offer adjustable side bolstering and lumbar support. A panoramic sunroof comes standard, and sound-insulating acoustic glass reduces road noise for a quiet ride.
The C 63 may be a C-class, but it feels more like an S-class. And its style and power might just make you forget about that V8.
• MSRP: $83,900
• Price as tested: $101,950
• P3 Hybrid: Handcrafted AMG 2.0L inline-4 turbo engine with permanently excited synchronous electric motor
• 671 horsepower
• AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission
• AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive
• 24 MPGe (electricity + gasoline) combined city/highway
• 33 MPG (gasoline only) combined city/highway