2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E-Class E63S 4Matic+ Review

In Malaysia's luxury performance car market, the choice of mid-to-large sports sedans always revolves around a "balance of luxury and performance." As one of the representatives in this segment, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E-Class E63S 4Matic+ retains the business attributes of the E-Class while integrating 612 horsepower performance genes through AMG tuning. In this test, we focus on whether it can strike the optimal balance between daily commuting comfort and track-level power output, while also verifying if its features and pricing align with the needs of its target users.

From a distance, the overall style of the 2021 AMG E63S 4Matic+ leans towards a "low-profile performance style," without overly aggressive aerodynamic kits, but the AMG badges in the details are sufficiently eye-catching. The front features a large vertical-bar grille paired with an AMG-specific front bumper. The large air intakes on both sides not only improve cooling efficiency but also enhance visual aggression. The body lines retain the elongated feel of the E-Class, while the side skirts and 20-inch multi-spoke wheels underscore its performance identity. The wide tires, with front specifications of 265/35 R20 and rear specifications of 295/30 R20, provide a solid foundation for grip. At the rear, the four circular exhaust outlets on both sides and the slightly upturned spoiler are classic AMG design elements. The LED taillight cluster has high recognition when illuminated at night. The overall appearance balances the stability of a business sedan with the sporty temperament of a performance car.

Sitting inside, the interior of the AMG E63S 4Matic+ continues Mercedes-Benz's signature luxury style. The center console adopts a dual-screen design featuring a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The interfaces are smooth and the display clarity meets luxury car standards. The steering wheel is AMG-specific with a flat-bottom design, featuring touch buttons and paddle shifters, offering a solid grip. The HUD head-up display system clearly projects information such as speed and navigation, reducing the driver's need to look away from the road. In terms of materials, the center console and door panels are covered with large areas of soft leather, complemented by metal trims, providing a premium texture. For features, the front seats support electric adjustment and memory functions. They offer strong support and soft padding to ensure comfort even during long durations. The rear is equipped with air conditioning vents, 40:20:40 split-folding seats, seven airbags throughout the car, a 360-degree panoramic camera system, and automatic parking functions, catering to both practicality and safety. Notably, the Burmester 13-speaker sound system delivers excellent sound quality, which appeals to users with high expectations for audio performance.

In terms of space, the vehicle dimensions are 4988mm×1907mm×1463mm, with a wheelbase of 2939mm, placing it in the mainstream range of mid-to-large cars. The front seating area is spacious, with a 180cm tall occupant still having a fist's worth of headroom after adjusting the seat. The rear legroom exceeds two fists, and there is four-finger headroom, making it comfortable even with three adult passengers. Its storage capacity is commendable, with a trunk volume of 540L, sufficient for daily use, such as storing luggage or a baby stroller. The rear seatbacks can also be folded down to extend the storage space. Furthermore, the front central armrest box and door panel storage compartments have ample capacity, and the inclusion of 220V/230V power outlets ensures convenience for rear-seat passengers using electronic devices.

Power is the core selling point of the AMG E63S 4Matic+, equipped with a 4.0T twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivering a maximum power of 612PS and a peak torque of 850N·m, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system. The official 0-100km/h acceleration is just 3.4 seconds. During actual driving, the throttle response is sharp when starting. Even in Comfort mode, a light press on the throttle produces an obvious push-back feeling; when switched to Sport+ mode, the power output becomes more explosive, and with a hard press of the throttle, the gearbox shifts quickly, delivering continuous and intense push-back feelings. During overtaking, almost no advance judgment is needed, as the power is readily available. The transmission also exhibits intelligent performance, with smooth gear changes during normal driving and quick downshifts during aggressive driving. Using the paddle shifters makes the driving experience even more direct and engaging.

In terms of handling, the steering wheel provides precise control with minimal slack; it's light at low speeds and stable at high speeds, matching the tuning style of a high-performance car. The suspension system employs AMG's exclusive adaptive suspension. In Comfort mode, it filters out most road bumps, ensuring comfort for daily commuting; in Sport mode, the suspension becomes stiffer, effectively controlling body roll when cornering. Coupled with the grip of the wide tires, the car remains stable even at relatively high cornering speeds. The chassis has a solid overall quality, handling continuous bumpy roads without excessive bouncing. The balance between comfort and handling is well achieved.

Regarding fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is rated at 9.1L/100km. In actual tests, urban driving consumes about 12-13L/100km, while highway driving can reduce fuel consumption to 8-9L/100km. For a 4.0T V8 performance car, such fuel consumption levels are within an acceptable range. Noise control is excellent, with wind and tire noise well suppressed during highway driving. Only when the throttle is heavily pressed does the exhaust note enter the cabin, which ensures a quiet driving experience while providing auditory feedback when desired.

In summary, the core strength of the 2021 AMG E63S 4Matic+ lies in its "versatility"—it offers acceleration performance comparable to supercars while retaining the luxury and practicality of the E-Class. Compared to competitors like the BMW M5 or Audi RS6, the AMG E63S 4Matic+ boasts more luxurious features and a brand image that better suits business users' needs. Meanwhile, the stability provided by the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system makes it easier for regular drivers to manage its formidable power.

This car is suitable for two types of users: first, mid-to-high-end users who need to balance business commuting with weekend driving enjoyment. They value the luxurious image of the vehicle but are not willing to give up the performance experience. Second, families seeking a balanced performance—the AMG E63S 4Matic+'s space, features, and safety can meet daily family needs, while occasionally delivering driving excitement during spirited drives.

Overall, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E-Class E63S 4Matic+ is a performance luxury car without any significant shortcomings. It strikes a perfect balance between power, luxury, and practicality. Priced at 1,118,880 Malaysian Ringgit, though not inexpensive, considering its features and performance, it remains highly competitive in its class. If you're looking for a luxury car that can handle business settings while providing driving enjoyment, the AMG E63S 4Matic+ is an excellent choice.