R1 536 253. That is exactly how much the ‘new’ Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe will set you back.
Interestingly, despite the improvement in tech over the prefacelift version, it only represents a miniscule R2 656 increase in price. As a refresher, the facelifted C63 S will use the same biturbocharged 4.0-litre V8 as before, and output standing at an identical 375kw and 700nm.
The biggest change under the skin of the C63 S, is that it bins its previous 7-speed transmission in favour of a new AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission. Its AMG Dynamic Select drive also now includes six programs: "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport+", "RACE" and "Individual", each of which alters the engine and transmission response, steering characteristics, suspension damping, and exhaust sound.
Also controllable from its AMG performance steering wheel, are 9 presets for traction control – as seen on the Nürburgring-conquering Mercedes AMG GT-R. Depending on the setting, the system permits more or less slip on the rear wheels - very helpful in varying road conditions. And just like the AMG GT S, the C63 S once again comes with dynamic motor mounts can adapt their stiffness smoothly and in fractions of a second to the prevailing driving conditions and style.
The facelifted C63 S also gains a refreshed interior, including a fully-digital instrument cluster, a new 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and some new trims and materials. The exterior gets a more aggressive front bumper, a new Panamericana grille, and a more defined rear diffuser with the trademark quad pipes.
Mercedes Benz South Africa's facelifted C-Class has just been launched in South Africa, with the C63 and C63 S set to launch before the end of 2018.