Mercedes-AMG just dropped full details on its E63 and E63 S performance sedans several weeks ahead of a full public reveal in Southern California. The new luxury-laden four-doors come packing all kinds of upgraded AMG goodies, including a standard fire-breathing V-8 mounted in the nose and plenty of race-inspired go-fast components. In fact, according to Mercedes-AMG GmbH head Tobias Moers, the new models “represent the biggest step forward ever taken from one generation to the next.”

Let’s get right down to it. Both the lower-tier E63 and top-tier E63 S come equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8, with the double-dose of twin-scroll turbos mounted between the cylinder banks in a “hot vee” position. The plain-Jane E63 peaks at 563 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and 553 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm, while the S gets 603 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and 627 pound-feet of torque at 2,500 rpm. That makes the powerplant in the S the most powerful engine ever equipped on the E-Class.

Acceleration to 60 mph clocks in at 3.4 seconds for the regular E63 and 3.3 seconds for the S. Top speed is electronically limited at 155 mph for the regular E63, while the S is electronically limited at 186 mph.

And not that it really matters, but there’s a cylinder deactivation feature for greater efficiency when cruising in Comfort mode.

Executing the cog swaps is AMG’s SpeedShift nine-speed transmission, which, for the first time, comes paired with a wet start-off clutch. Putting the power down is a revamped 4Matic+ performance AWD system, complete with fully variable torque distribution and multiple driving modes. There’s even a drift mode as standard in the S, if you’re feeling saucy.

Handling it all is a multi-chamber air suspension with continuously adjustable damping, plus speed-sensitive steering. The S is also offered with optional carbon ceramic brakes.

Finally, there’s the standard AMG aggression for the exterior styling, including a new grille, wide fenders, and chrome-plated exhaust pipes. The regular E63 gets 19-inch wheels, while the S gets 20-inchers.

The 2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 and E63 S will get their full public debut on November 16th at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Look for the models to hit dealers during the summer of 2017.

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