2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE

How does the C-Class drive? Our test AMG C 63 S E Performance sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds at our test track. That's certainly impressive, and it needed only 104 feet to slow from 60 mph. Those straight-line numbers allow it to go toe-to-toe with its nearest competition, the BMW M3 Competition, and we like the responsive nature of the powertrain, even at low rpm. The transmission shifts smoothly, though we found it could occasionally stumble and be in the wrong gear when we'd make sudden throttle inputs.

Cornering performance is where the AMG C 63 S E Performance begins to lose some of its luster. Our test car weighed in at a hefty 4,803 pounds, which is about 1,000 pounds heavier than a BMW M3. All that mass is a challenge to manage especially when the road is less than perfect. The rear of the car can get upset and unbalanced when you're driving around bumpy corners. In addition, the lack of steering feel numbs the front-end experience, so finding your groove at the upper limits is challenging. We'd happily give some straight-line speed back for gains here.

How comfortable is the C-Class? The seats are a highlight, with great cushioning and support for the road and nice heating and ventilation functions. But there's a lot of road noise in the AMG C 63 S E Performance, even on what seems like smooth pavement. When you're in the mood to enjoy the car's sound, it comes off as an odd mix between a four-cylinder and electronic synthesizer that pales compared to the old V8's inspiring roar. The vehicle's rear suspension also isn't great at controlling the car's weight, especially in Comfort mode, which leads to a bit of jostling. Switching to Sport mode makes things stiffer and reduces movement but creates other discomforts. It really isn't ideal for any situation.

There are also some issues with the climate system. The auto fan control still required manual adjustments on our part, and while there are rear vents for passengers, there's no separate temperature or fan speed control. It would be great to also have more diffused air circulation since the vents currently are too focused.

How’s the interior? The C-Class offers decent space inside both rows. It's not a huge car, but it's decently roomy for adults in the back seat. Getting in and out is a bit difficult because of the car's low ride height. Watch for high curbs when opening your door if parking on a street.

The AMG C 63 S E Performance's interior looks great but has some functional shortcomings. The touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel make precise adjustments difficult. The door-mounted seat controls aren't as natural to use as traditional ones. The overall lack of real buttons makes this interior harder to use than it should be.

How’s the storage? The AMG C 63 S E Performance provides adequate trunk space, although there's a slight compromise due to the hybrid battery pack. A noticeable hump right behind the rear seats shortens the height of the pass-through and reduces volume to 11.6 cubic feet. On the upside, the remote seat-folding buttons make opening the space between the trunk and rear seats quick and easy. The trunk also features a convenient auto open-and-close function, and the shrouded trunk hinges won't crush your grocery bags.

Storage for small items in the cabin includes an adequately sized center armrest with split-opening doors, tandem cupholders that can be removed when they aren't needed, and average-size door pockets. Storage is functional but not exceptionally clever beyond the cupholders. For car seats, easy-access Isofix anchor and tether points are helpful. Moving kids in and out isn't as easy due to sedan ergonomics, but it's about typical for this class.

Is the C-Class a good value? Just like the other variants of C-Class, the AMG C 63 S E Performance exudes the high-end luxury feel that Mercedes is renowned for. But it's a challenge to find its value proposition in the performance segment considering the car's price. The BMW M3 is a more well-rounded performance sedan offering slightly less power but also much less weight, making it the superior track vehicle. And if you are able to entertain EV ownership, the Tesla Model 3 Performance offers unparalleled value for money, outshining both Germans in terms of bang-for-your-buck. Aside from sheer straight-line speed and cutting-edge powertrain technology, this AMG is far from the best buy here.

Mercedes has a four-year/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty. Both are average for the class. It also includes roadside assistance for four years/50,000 miles. Unlike rivals, though, there's no included maintenance.

The AMG C 63 S E Performance is a visually appealing car that strikes a beautiful balance of looking the business but not overdoing the design. (We're looking at you, BMW.) Enthusiasts will lament the soul-stirring V8 engines of previous-generation Cs, and sadly this model's high-tech plug-in hybrid replacement doesn't deliver the same aural experience. On top of that, the extra weight it adds puts a damper on the overall driving experience.