Mercedes has already released the first official details for the 2012 C-Class model, so it seems fitting that the first details and images of the new AMG version have popped up on the web. The new model is expected to go on sale by the summer of 2011. Like with the standard C-Class, the AMG version has also received an updated exterior and interior, but the engine will remain faithful to the C63 AMG packaging.

The exterior gets redesigned bumpers, slimmer headlights with LED lights, revised mirrors, and a new grille with one horizontal bar instead of two, as found in the SLS AMG. There is also a new set of sportier wheels, chrome elements, and an AMG logo in order to differentiate it from the standard C-Class. A sporty exhaust system with four end pipes has also been added to the back oft he vehicle.

Update 02/01/2011: Official details for the Mercedes have finally been revealed, but since they were leaked on the internet a few days ago, we already have most of them. What we didn't have though are the images and the European prices! In Europe, the new C63 AMG is priced at 71,340 euro ($97,841 at the current rates) for the sedan and at 73,899 euro ($101,351 at the current rates) for the station wagon version. The AMG Performance package adds an extra 7166 euro (9,828 at the current rates). Check out the new images in the gallery provided.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2012 Mercedes C63 AMG.

2012 Mercedes C63 AMG

Specifications
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  • Model: 2012 Mercedes C63 AMG
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Pros
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Exterior

For the facelift C-Class, Mercedes is offering a redesigned front apron that offers a more dynamic appearance, a new grille with one horizontal bar instead of two, a more muscular bonnet, LED daytime running lights at the bottom of the bumper, and a new aluminum hood. Slimmer headlights with LED lights have also been added, as well as revised mirrors. For the back of the car, the C-Class gets a new bumper, revised LED tail lights, and a sporty exhaust system with four end pipes. Topping the whole thing off is sportier wheels, revised mirrors, chrome elements, and an AMG logo.

Interior

For the interior the new C63 AMG gets a completely new dashboard design with an integrated screen, a new, all-color, three-dimensional TFT display in the middle of the redesigned speedometer, new three-spoke AMG performance steering wheel trimmed in nappa leather and featuring a metallic trim element. The sporty look is completed by an aluminum shift paddles and fine trim elements in brushed dark aluminum.

The car also gets a set of sports seats covered in a combination of ARTICO/DINAMICA black upholstery: ARTICO for the side bolsters and DINAMICA for the center panels of the seat cushions.

Customers can opt for an AMG Performance Studio package that adds a series of extra features: AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium gray with a high-gloss finish in 18 or 19" size, AMG Exterior Carbon-Fiber package, AMG rear axle differential lock,AMG trim elements in carbon fiber/high-gloss black piano lacquer,illuminated AMG door sill panels and AMG velour floor mats.

The Engine

Under the hood, Mercedes has kept the usual 6.2 liter V8 engine producing 457 HP. This power output can be increased to 487 when equipped with the AMG performance package. There is also a new turbo 5.5 liter V8 engine available, but it is being reserved for the next generation C63 AMG. The engine is mated to a new MCT seven-speed automatic transmission that helps reduce fuel consumption.

The new transmission offers four driving modes and double-declutching and RACE START functions it is as compatible with a relaxed, fuel-saving driving style as it is with high-speed laps on a closed racing circuit and extremely dynamic overtaking manoeuvres. The Controlled Efficiency "C" mode is programmed to provide early, comfortable upshifts while maintaining the lowest possible engine speed to help the driver keep fuel consumption down. The "S", "S+" and "M" modes deliver increased agility through fast, responsive gear changes and higher revs. Gear changes in the "S+" and "M" modes take just 100 milliseconds.

When Can I Buy One?

The facelift version of the C-Class, both standard and AMG versions, were revealed in January 2011 at the Detroit Auto Show. Both models will go on sale in the summer of 2011.

In Europe, the new C63 AMG is priced at 71,340 euro ($97,841 at the current rates) for the sedan and at 73,899 euro ($101,351 at the current rates) for the station wagon version. The AMG Performance package adds an extra 7166 euro (9,828 at the current rates).

The Competition

The Mercedes C63 AMG takes on models like the BMW M3->ke2366 and the Cadillac CTS-V. With the previous versions of the C63 AMG, we would have gladly taken the either one, but the modifications done to this version may lead us to change our mind.

The current M3 delivers a total of 420 HP, while the CTS-V is powered by a supercharged V8 with an impressive 556 HP. The power output for the C63 AMG may fall between these two vehicles, but the outdated design of the Merc may sway customers to the either side of the spectrum.