2016 LA Auto Show: Mercedes-AMG E63 with Drift Mode

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the updated Mercedes-AMG E63 and E63S. The executive sedan gets an upgraded engine, revised electronics and has all-wheel drive. It also has a “Drift Mode” similar to the Ford Focus RS.

The new Mercedes-AMG E63 will debut at the upcoming 2016 LA Auto Show. It will be available in two trims with the E63 S being the more mental of the two. For the first time, the E63 is being offered with all-wheel drive.

The Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4MATIC+ with fully variable torque distribution allowing the car to be purely rear-wheel drive. The system can transfer 100 percent of the torque to the rear axle making the car slide around like a hooligan. Something you’d expect from the brawny AMG.

In ‘Race’ mode, the ESP is switched off and command goes to the all-wheel drive system to send all of the torque to the rear wheels. It’s like Focus RS’ Drift Mode, except in the Ford’s case only 70 percent of the torque is transferred to the rear.

The engine under the bulging hood is a 4.0-liter V8 bi-turbo which kicks out 612 hp and 626 lb-ft on the E63 S while the more subdued E63 packs a 571 hp engine with 553 lb-ft of torque. So basically, the new Mercedes-AMG E63 S is more powerful than the AMG GT R! Both versions use a 9-speed dual-clutch transmission.

0-60 mph in the E63 S is over in 3.4 sec while the base versions clocks 3.4 sec in the acceleration test. That said, when you are in a mood to just relax, it settles down into a comfy highway cruiser courtesy of the standard ‘air body control’. Inside, the cabin is lined with soft leather and seats that massage you. Ambient lighting around the carbon fiber trimmed interior adds another touch to the relaxing driving experience.

The new Mercedes-AMG E63 will rival the BMW M5 which also due for an overhaul. The new M5 is expected to boast a 600+ hp V8 and will also be available with all-wheel drive.

Mercedes-AMG E63 S image gallery: