In a nutshell - Mercedes-Benz AMG E 63 4MATIC S:
- Smarter looks, more aerodynamic, better air flow to and from the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine.
- New shape promotes better handling characteristics.
- Due to go on sale in July 2020.
- First UK deliveries expected in the autumn.
- UK pricing and specification is still to be confirmed.
- Should provide stiff competition to the new BMW M5 Competition.
The Mercedes-Benz AMG E 63 S has been given a significant overhaul - with wider flared arches, a more aggressive front grille, and a bulging new bonnet.
And with similar performance on tap, the new E63 S should give BMWs new M5 Competition a good run for its money.
The E63 S is a car with some pedigree and a loyal following, dating back to the so-called AMG Hammer of the 1980s.
Here the flagship road rocket - available as either a saloon or an estate and with the order book now open - has been given an eye-catching resculpturing.
The new design features a completely restyled front section, with a larger front grille than even before.
There are flatter all-LED multibeam headlamps, and the model's characteristic wheel arches are now flared further outwards, giving it a much more aggressive stance.
Meanwhile theres a completely new rounded-fit bonnet, which features powerdomes and which again gives the E63 S the look of a car you wouldnt want to mess with.
The E63 also has a reshaped front apron in a jet-wing design, with three large air intakes, which Mercedes-Benz says significantly reduces lift at the front axle.
A new rear apron completes the look.
And the German manufacturers are quick to point out that the new reshaping is for functional reasons, not just to please the eye, particularly where it comes to improvements to emissions.
A spokesperson says: The new look of the E 63 4MATIC models, which catches the eye at first glance, is also down to technical reasons to a large extent."
In order to ensure optimum air throughput around the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine including charge air cooling, the outer air intakes in the jet-wing are not only particularly large; they also guide the air to where it is required in a targeted manner with the aid of two transverse louvres.
Designers and aerodynamics experts worked closely together during development.
Their insights not only resulted in the striking AMG bodystyling but also in the optimised aerobalance for agile handling characteristics on country roads and optimum driving stability at high speed on the motorway.
The aerodynamics experts were also able to reduce the wind resistance even further.
Underneath that sculpted bonnet things remain the same as in the previous E63 S.
Owners will enjoy AMGs 4.0 litre V8 biturbo engine with twin-scroll turbochargers.
That equates to 612 hp and which is married to the 4MATIC variable all-wheel drive system that comes with grin-inducing Drift Mode as standard.
The saloon will sprint from 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds - just a fraction of a second slower than the 4.4 litre V8 M5 Competition.
Meanwhile the estate will reach 62mph from a standing start in 3.5 seconds.
The Mercedes-Benz spokesperson adds: The S version is the only car in its competitive segment that is fitted with dynamic engine mounts.
They solve the conflicting goals of achieving as soft a connection as possible to the powertrain for high comfort and as rigid a connection as possible for optimum driving dynamics.
The dynamic mounts are quickly and variably able to adapt their stiffness to the driving conditions and requirements. These measures enhance the vehicle's precision when driven dynamically, while the soft setting increases comfort tangibly.
While pricing is yet to be announced, its expected to cost around £98,000.
