2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Sedan, Wagon Debut Fresh Faces And Tech

Earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz graceds us with a refreshed E-Class. We were privy to info and photos for the sedan, wagon, and the mild AMG model, the E53. Now, it's time for the hot rod of the group to garner the spotlight, as Mercedes lifts the veil for the 2021 AMG E63 S and its long-roof companion, the E63 S Wagon

There isn't a terrific amount of mystery here, as the updates primarily mirror what we've already seen. The E63 S gets a slightly different fascia compared to the new E53, boasting larger side vents with a narrow third vent running lengthwise between the grille and lower vent. At the rear, the E63 S gets a more pronounced lip spoiler, with quad trapezoid exhaust outlets instead of the E53's ovals.

Other exterior changes versus the outgoing E63 are identical to other 2021 E-Class models – notably the redesigned front clip with a new grille and LED headlights, and a shapely backside with fresh taillights. The E63 S also gets a new set of standard-issue 20-inch twin-five-spoke wheels, and three new colors are offered: Graphite Grey metallic, Cirrus Silver metallic, and Brilliant Blue magno.

Moving inside, the E63 S shares the MBUX upgrade from the new E53. The layout will be very familiar to current E63 owners, but the new twin-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel does stand out. The wheel is heated in standard trim, and it can be ordered in leather, Dinamica microfiber, or a combination of both materials.

The wheel is filled with an array of integrated buttons and controls to operate everything from the driver and center digital displays, to cruise control, hands-free operation, and various drive programs.

Under the skin, mechanicals carry over from the previous year. That shouldn't be the least bit disappointing, however, since the E63 S packs a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8. It develops 603 horsepower (450 kilowatts) and 627 pound-feet (850 Newton-meters) of torque for either the sedan or the wagon. AMG's Speedshift nine-speed DCT doles out power to all four wheels, with AMG giving the sedan an estimated 0-60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds. The wagon is ever-so-slightly slower at 3.4 seconds for the same sprint.

Mercedes doesn't yet offer pricing for the wagon or sedan. That will be announced closer to the on-sale date, but if 2020 models are any indication, expect the sedan to start around $108,000 and the wagon at $112,000.