2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Review, Pricing, and Specs (2024)

Overview

The 2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 S sedan is the materialization of pure affluence crossed with rapturous performance. It's based on the regular Mercedes-Benz E-class, but the E63 S is actually a more powerful version of the AMG E53. However, this significantly more expensive sibling features a fire-breathing 603-hp twin-turbo V-8 that helps it accelerate with breathtaking speed. Plus, the E63 S's talented all-wheel-drive system has a Drift mode that routes all of the engine's power to the rear wheels for entertaining sideways action. Of course, this mightiest E is hardly meant for adolescent indulgences. Its rowdy soundtrack and incredible handling make it a machine that can intimidate and challenge even the most exotic cars. And once those opponents are left stunned, the 2021 E63 S sedan pampers its passengers like a five-star resort, which is why it's an Editors' Choice pick.

What's New for 2021?

For 2021, Mercedes refreshes the E63 S's appearance and gives the sedan some new features. The most notable visual change is the reshaped grille design, which now features 12 vertical slats and a larger Mercedes emblem. It also adds revised headlights and taillights, new 20-inch wheels with a more aerodynamic design, and a restyled rear diffuser. Inside, the E63 S adds a new steering wheel with larger paddle shifters. The infotainment system also adopts the latest MBUX interface. Finally, AMG retunes the sedan's suspension to supposedly make the ride more comfortable.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Our preferred version would be equipped with options that further enhance its luxurious persona. These include the Exterior Lighting package that brings automatic high-beams and headlights that work to maximize illumination, even around corners. We also like the Warmth and Comfort and Acoustic Comfort packages. Together they add a heated steering wheel, heated front armrests, rapid-heating elements to the front seats, and additional sound-deadening materials that help keep the cabin as quiet as a library. Our favorite individual options include the three-zone automatic climate control, heated rear seats, head-up display, massaging front seats, and the soft-close doors.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The E63 S's powerful twin-turbo 603-hp V-8 engine is a mild-mannered partner and a maniacal monster all wrapped up into one. Left in Comfort mode, the engine and nine-speed automatic transmission react with stoicism and smoothness. Select any of the sportier drive modes and the powertrain unleashes relentless fury. Gearchanges are lightning fast, and the engine's 627 lb-ft of torque tears the tires with rampant rage. In our testing, the E63 S charged to 60 mph in a mere 2.8 seconds and ripped up the quarter-mile in 10.9 seconds at 128 mph. Despite being saddled with a pair of turbochargers, the 4.0-liter V-8 sounds almost as wonderful as AMG's naturally aspirated V-8 engines of yore. While not as supple as the regular E-class, the E63's ride is soft enough in its default setting that daily driving is certainly a possibility. Toggle the springs to the Sport or Sport+ setting, however, and the E63 is liable to shake out the fillings in your teeth. However, we haven't driven one with the retuned suspension yet. Push the E63 to its handling limits, and you'll be greatly rewarded. There's more cornering grip here than any of the E63's impressive competitors can muster—even the BMW M5. Adding to the thrill is the AMG's steering, which is well weighted and highly communicative.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Given the mind-expanding performance of the E63 S, the mighty Mercedes-AMG is impressively fuel efficient. But that doesn't mean it's an abstemious consumer of fuel. The EPA estimates that this super sedan will deliver 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. The last version we tested returned 22 mpg on our 200-mile highway route, which helps us evaluate real-world efficiency. Not bad for a rocket ship.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

As in other E-class models, the E63's interior is made of high-quality materials that are pieced together with the care and craftsmanship of a handbag by Hermès. Largely devoid of buttons, the E63's dashboard is anchored by a row of knurled-aluminum switches for adjusting the standard dual-zone automatic climate-control system. A chunky three-spoke steering wheel features a flat bottom and a pair of big paddle shifters. Although the E63's trunk room is less than that of rivals such as the Porsche Panamera Turbo, we still managed to fit five of our carry-on suitcases inside. That number is only one less than the Porsche, which is technically a hatchback and sports a visibly larger cargo area.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A pair of 12.3-inch screens dominate the upper dashboard—one for the digital gauge cluster and another for the infotainment system. The interface is controlled by the brand's ubiquitous console-mounted control knob, with a touchpad on top that allows users to input commands by swiping a finger and offers a degree of added functionality. Alas, we found the touchpad fussy to use and easy to brush accidentally. The driver can also interact with the two screens by using a pair of touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel. Standard features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a Burmester audio system, and wireless phone charging.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2021 E63 S sedan hasn't been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). We're also disappointed that Mercedes charges customers extra for most driver-assistance technology. Key safety features include:

• Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Although its warranty is class competitive, we continue to be befuddled by Mercedes-AMG's decision to forgo complimentary scheduled service—something nearly all of its rivals such as BMW, Jaguar, and Volvo offer.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

More Features and Specs