Here are some fresh spy shots of a partially camouflaged prototype of Mercedes’ answer to the latest BMW M3 sedan, the next generation performance version of the C-Class that will hold on to the C63 AMG moniker, even though Benz has replaced the naturally-aspirated 6.2-liter V8 with a downsized, but twin-turbo’d, 4.0-liter V8.
The same forced-induction unit will be used on other future Mercedes models, including the GT AMG sports car. In the C63 AMG, it should provide around 450-horses in regular trim and over 500hp in the special versions that will follow, such as the Black Edition, with current reports stating that it will launch only in rear-wheel drive form.
A reduction in weight will help in the performance arena too, while the chassis will be tweaked and fitted with uprated suspension, steering and braking system components.
The 2015 C63 AMG won’t have an overly aggressive design, with the (sports) devil being in the details that include a different front grille piece housing Merc’s star, aerodynamically shaped bumpers, a sculpted bonnet, bigger wheels and quad exhaust pipes.
Inside, Mercedes will build on the new C-Class’ modern interior splashing it with sporty tones and trims.
We should see the production model breaking cover sometime this year, with sales to likely start in 2015. An estate version is also in the making.
By John Halas
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS
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