Mercedes-AMG Has Proof That Wagons Belong in This World

Jason Siu
by Jason Siu

Sporting 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon is more than just a family hauler.

Wagons may seem to be a dying breed in the U.S., giving way to crossovers and SUVs, but Mercedes-AMG doesn’t have any plans of stepping away from the market. The standard E400 4MATIC Wagon is heading to dealers by March and joining it this fall will be the high-performance AMG E63 S variant. Under the hood is a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 offering plenty of performance while paired to a nine-speed AMG Speedshift MCT sport transmission. The result is a zero-to-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 180 mph.

Of course, the powertrain is bolstered by the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system, which combines the advantages of various drive configurations. Torque distribution on the front and rear axles are fully variable for the first time to help ensure optimum traction in all road conditions.

SEE ALSO: 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon Review

For the first time on an AMG wagon, the E63 S has its hood inset between the fenders and bumpers like on a coupe, giving it a more dynamic appearance. Compared to its predecessor, it’s 1.1 inches wider, allowing the wheel arches to accommodate wider and larger wheels. There is, of course, the practicality it offers with a generous 35 cubic feet of trunk capacity with the second row of seats upright. Like the standard E400, the rear seatback can be folded down in a 40:20:40 split.

Look for the 2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon to make its public debut at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, where AutoGuide.com will be reporting live.

“The new AMG E63 Wagon combines our brand’s hallmark driving dynamics with high everyday practicality,” said Mercedes-AMG CEO Tobias Moers. “It is not for nothing that the model has been a permanent fixture in the AMG portfolio for 40 years. The powerful engine and the intelligent all-wheel drive underpin our claim to always be at the forefront of development when it comes to performance.”

Discuss this story on our Mercedes-Benz Forum

Jason Siu
Jason Siu

Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.

More by Jason Siu

Comments
Join the conversation
2 of 6 comments
  • Mahhn Mahhn on Feb 15, 2017

    One question, will they make it so an adult will fit? Seriously, I'm 6'4" and do not fit in most cars. I had to mod my '08 CLK's seat to fit in that and it has more headroom than most modern Benz.

  • Hometractor Hometractor on Feb 15, 2017

    I know looks are subjective, but that styling on either side of the A pillar is so dichotomous. It's almost like a different team of stylists worked on either side and then assembled it and put it up for sale. Almost reminds me of a Honda Crosstour, and that is NOT a good thing. Really this wagon is more like a 5 door coupe.

Next