Mercedes reveals new E63 AMG

We've already delivered our preliminary verdict on Mercedes-Benz's all-new E-Class (more here), and now the Stuttgart-based manufacturer has revealed the stonking AMG-fettled E63 flagship.

The V8-propelled sedan will make its public debut at September's Frankfurt motor show, and it's expected here in the final quarter of this year. When launched, the newcomer will slot in against the BMW M5 and Audi RS6.

Local pricing and spec levels are yet to be announced, but figure on a sticker price around the $240k mark.

As per the outgoing model, the AMG-tweaked sedan derives propulsion from a 6208cc V8 (so the 'E63' moniker is actually a slight misnomer), but power rises marginally from 378kW to 387kW.

Despite the added oomph, Mercedes claims the new E63 quaffs 12 per cent less juice than its forerunner, and the company quotes an overall consumption figure of 12.6L/100km -- not too bad for heavyish, high-po sedan.

In terms of raw performance stats, there isn't a huge change vis-à-vis the existing model, Merc boasting of a 0-100km/h split of 4.5sec and electronically governed top whack of 250km/h. That said, these numbers put it well in the hunt against the M5 and RS6.

The car's tech highlights include the Speedshift MCT seven-speed transmission with a wet start-up clutch.

Thanks to its low rotational mass, the start-up clutch helps the transmission respond instantaneously and dynamically with no slip, according to Mercedes.

The transmission has four drive modes -- "C" (Comfort), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual) -- enabling the driver to tailor shift patterns to suit the mood and occasion.

In addition, the new transmission is also claimed to be lighter and more efficient than the old torque-converter auto.

In the suspension department, the E63 AMG scores a new front axle with more negative camber, a 56mm wider track, new control arms and a tubular stabiliser. The rear axle also has extra negative camber and a new subframe mounting for greater stability on the limit.

As per the likes of Audi's magnetic ride system, the E63 features the 'AMG Ride Control' system, which automatically varies the damping characteristics to best suit track-attack sessions or freeway cruising.

Other performance/cosmetic upgrades include 18-inch, five-spoke AMG rims with 255/40 rubber at the front and 285/35s at the rear (a 19-inch wheel/tyre combo is optional).

Of course, there's the mandatory "6.3 AMG" badging and slightly flared front guards, and the E-Class range-topper also gains a quartet of tailpipes, LED daytime running lights and an aero pack that comprises a thrusting front spoiler and rear diffuser.