Ask any car enthusiast to describe a performance vehicle, and they’ll probably talk about power, acceleration, speed, handling – or all of the above.

With an electric motor and the world's most powerful series-production four-cylinder turbo engine, the all new Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE Sedan is redefining what performance cars can be. A contemporary take on a sports sedan, the latest icon from Mercedes-AMG blends the raw power of the AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE badge with a future-focused, electrified driving experience.

A “technological masterpiece”

The AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE is equipped with an efficient plug-in hybrid drivetrain and boasts a 15km range of purely electric driving. While electric mode is very much a new thing for the iconic AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE, the ultra-light 6.1 kWh battery and electric motor were developed using Formula 1-inspired technologies to deliver irresistible levels of performance.

At the heart of the vehicle is a turbocharged four-cylinder engine – and with an astounding 350kW and 545Nm, it’s the most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine ever produced.

A technically advanced all-wheel-drive 4MATIC+ system securely harnesses the combined 500kW and 1020Nm outputs of the petrol and electric elements to deliver acceleration that sets it apart. A 0-100km/h sprint in just 3.4 seconds puts the AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE into the realm of supercars.

Jochen Hermann, the chief technology officer of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, describes the AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE as “a technological masterpiece”.

“The immediate response of the electric drive at the rear axle, the rapid torque build-up as well as the fast power output and also draw of our battery, are very special features. Add to this the standard-fit rear-axle steering and fully variable all-wheel drive, and the all new C 63 illustrates once again the high level of technical expertise that AMG possesses.”

The promise of a dynamic and agile driving experience is adeptly captured by the vehicle’s bold aesthetic. The widened wheel arches, power-domed bonnet, AMG-specific radiator grille, 20-inch AMG cross-spoke alloy wheels and AMG rear diffusor transform the classic Mercedes-Benz C-Class design into a look that’s unmistakably ‘AMG’.

Made for adventure

To test the full extent of its capabilities, we took the AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE for a drive through the historic city of Launceston in Tasmania, Australia and beyond. Draped over the hills that surround the Tamar River, Launceston is famed for its spectacular scenery. It’s also the gateway to the Tamar Valley and some of the very best driving roads in Australia, making it the ideal backdrop to our adventure – and the AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE the perfect driving companion.

Engaging dynamics are at the core of the AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE experience; it rolls effortlessly as we head toward the Tamar Valley. Many of these roads have hosted stages and the AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE feels made for them, offering secure road holding and startling agility.

The duality of the vehicle is quite remarkable. In one breath, it’s quiet, barely disturbing the peace. In the next, it roars ahead, ready to devour the tarmac before it.

As the roads climb and twist back on themselves, the AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE steers into hairpins with enthusiasm, while the tireless brakes are reassuringly responsive. The combined 500kW of power punches the AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE out of hairpins with vivid acceleration and a distinctive growl. This experience is only enhanced by the AMG Real Performance Sound system, which feeds the natural sounds of the engine and exhaust back into the cabin for a captivating soundscape.

The AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE also boasts a suite of assistance systems designed to make every drive safer and easier. For example, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC automatically adjusts the distance between you and the vehicle ahead; PRE-SAFE PLUS detects certain impacts and takes pre-emptive measures to protect vehicle occupants; and Active Lane Keeping Assist warns you when you unintentionally leave your lane and can help manoeuvre the vehicle back into place.

Attuned to all the senses

The AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE perfectly embodies the notion of sporting luxury and caters to practically every need. After hours at the wheel, the AMG Performance seats remain comfortable, embracing and supporting your body – whether you’re cruising along the Bass Highway or exploring Tasmania’s writhing roads.

When cruising, the Burmester 3D surround sound system is a terrific companion, providing clear punch for those that like to dial up the music. The standard equipment list is comprehensive and includes the renowned MBUX operating system, premium ambient lighting, high-resolution central display, and heated and powered front seats. As an optional extra, the AMG Track Pace package allows you to improve your driving skills on cordoned-off tracks with the help of lap, sector and acceleration times plus selected live telemetry data.

Like the Tasmanian landscape, the all new AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE delivers an immersive experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Discover the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE.