(Thu 02 Apr 09)

Mercedes-Benz has revealed some details about the hottest version of its latest E-Class range, though the full UK specification won't be confirmed for a while yet.

The drivetrain has been carried over from the SL 63 AMG roadster and includes a 525bhp 6.2-litre V8 engine (yes, slightly smaller than the car's name suggests) and a seven-speed transmission which sort of is an automatic and sort of isn't. Dispensing with a normal torque convertor, it's certainly more efficient than a standard automatic, and this is largely why the car is around 12% more economical than its immediate predecessor with a provisional combined figure of 22.4mpg.

But you won't get near that statistic if you use the full potential of the engine, which gives the car a 0-62mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed which we can safely say would be a lot greater than the actual 155mph if the electronics didn't spoil the fun.

In addition to a Race Start function, the transmission has four modes, from which you can choose according to whether you're more interested in performance or economy, while there are three settings for the ESP (on, semi-on and off) and a further three (Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus) for the electronically-controlled suspension dampers.

In standard form the E 63 AMG uses 18" diameter wheels with 255/40 tyres at the front and 285/35s at the rear, but larger wheels and even lower-profile rubber are available as part of the AMG Performance Studio options package which also includes stiffer suspension, a 40% locking rear axle, a bootlid spoiler and various pieces of extra trim.

Standard safety items include driver drowsiness detection, Pre-Safe occupant protection, active headrests and seven airbags, while automatic braking and assistance for staying in the correct lane, seeing into blind spots and night viewing are all available as options.

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