E63 lands with lower price and $28K equipment boost

Mercedes-Benz Australia has announced details of the local spec and pricing for its new W212 series E-Class range-topper, the E 63 AMG.

The new four-door hits Benz dealers end of this month priced from $234,900 -- a reduction of $4056 compared to the W211 model it replaces. But Mercedes Australia says the added-value delivered by the new model is significantly more. With extra equipment and features totaling $28,100 by its reckoning, the new car represents a "net customer advantage of $32,156" it claims.

Unveiled in Europe in July, the new 63 features AMG's exclusive multiplate-clutch equipped Speedshift MCT seven-speed sports transmission which includes performance and manual modes and launch control. The vehicle features a unique front-end architecture and newly developed AMG Ride Control sports suspension on all four corners.

A feature new and exclusive to the E 63, AMG's Drive Unit delivers simple 'one-touch' calibration of the MCT sports transmission, three-mode stability control system, suspension and throttle mapping. This provides similar functionality to the M Sport button featured in BMW's latest M3.

Powered by a 386kW/630Nm version of AMG's bespoke 6.2-litre V8, the E 63 AMG will sprint from 0-100km/h in just 4.5sec. Despite the prodigious performance and a 8kW power boost in this version, Mercedes says the new E 63 is almost 12 per cent more frugal at the pumps. The Euro combined figure of 12.6L/100km compares favourably with sedans with power outputs 150kW shy of the big E.

For Australia the car features a unique specification that includes rear boot spoiler, sun protection package and 19-inch alloys. This follows the lead set by Mercedes via its recently announced Edition 63 C 63 limited edition.

Inside the E 63 gets heavily bolstered electrically-adjustable AMG sports seats upholstered in high-grade Nappa leather. AMG wheel, badging and trim and instruments are featured. The car also comes with a reversing camera, parking guidance, seat heating and ventilation, front seat massage, panoramic sunroof and keyless go as standard.

Options available include mechanical locking diff and exterior and interior carbon trim kits.

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