Mercedes-AMG E63 S Estate Review
Experience supercar speed and family-hauling practicality in the ultimate performance wagon from Mercedes-AMG.
Mercedes-AMG E63 S Estate: The Pinnacle of Performance Wagons
The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Estate redefines what a family hauler can achieve, packing a thunderous 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers 604 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. This beast accelerates from 0-62mph in just 3.5 seconds, rivaling supercars while offering 640 liters of boot space—expandable to 1,820 liters with seats folded.
Powertrain Mastery: V8 Fury Meets Everyday Usability
At the heart of the E63 S Estate lies AMG’s hand-built M177 4.0-liter V8, twin-turbocharged for explosive performance. In Comfort mode, it behaves with refined smoothness, ideal for daily commutes. Switch to Sport or Sport+ and it transforms into a rampaging monster, with lightning-quick nine-speed automatic shifts and all-wheel drive that propels it to a 186mph top speed.
Real-world testing confirms its prowess: one long-term review logged 11,094 miles at 25.4mpg average economy, proving efficiency isn’t sacrificed despite the power. The EPA rates it at 16mpg city/23mpg highway, with highway tests hitting 22mpg—impressive for a 4,700+ lb rocket.
- 0-60mph: 3.0 seconds in independent tests
- Quarter-mile: 11.1 seconds at 126mph
- Fuel tank: 80 liters for extended range
Chassis Dynamics: Grip, Playfulness, and Precision
The E63 S Estate’s AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system is rear-biased, enabling playful handling that belies its 2,070kg weight. Reviewers praise its willingness to rotate the rear on damp roads or in dry corners, offering a rear-drive feel in an AWD package. Air suspension with adaptive damping balances compliance in Comfort mode for urban potholes and firmness in Sport+ for track-like poise.
Steering is direct, weighted perfectly, and communicative— a departure from lighter AMG setups of the past. While not as supple as a standard E-Class, it’s livable daily, though Sport+ can rattle fillings on rough surfaces.
| Drive Mode | Ride Feel | Handling Trait |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Supple, daily-friendly | Stable, refined |
| Sport | Firmer, engaging | Balanced grip |
| Sport+ | Track-focused, stiff | Rear-led rotation |
Practicality Redefined: Estate Space with Supercar Pace
Unlike saloon rivals like the BMW M5, the E63 S Estate shines with wagon versatility. Its 640-liter boot swallows luggage under the blind, with 40:20:40 split-folding seats that electrically latch and offer adjustable recline. Load-lip height is low, tie-downs abound, and the higher roofline aids rear headroom.
Interior luxury matches: Nappa leather seats with heating/ventilation, Burmester audio, ambient lighting, and a sweeping dashboard. Rear space fits adults comfortably, making it a true family performer.
Luxury Cabin: Opulence Meets Technology
The cabin exudes premium quality with soft-touch materials, though some glossy plastics draw minor criticism. Dual 12.3-inch screens run MBUX infotainment, responsive and feature-packed. Air Balance fragrance and massaging seats elevate comfort, while the V8’s growl—enhanced by active exhaust—provides drama.
Build quality feels bulletproof, fitting the £100,000+ price tag. Standard kit includes adaptive cruise, 360 cameras, and matrix LED lights.
Rivals Compared: E63 S vs. the Competition
The Audi RS6 Avant matches boot space and pace (600hp mild-hybrid V8), but lacks the Mercedes’ rear-drive playfulness, often feeling nose-led. BMW M5 Competition (617hp) is saloon-only, missing estate utility. Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo offers hybrid options but less sheer V8 brutality.
| Model | Power (hp) | 0-62mph (sec) | Boot Space (liters) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-AMG E63 S Estate | 604 | 3.5 | 640-1820 |
| Audi RS6 Avant | 600 | 3.6 | 565-1680 |
| BMW M5 Competition | 617 | 3.3 | 530 (saloon) |
Long-Term Ownership Insights
After 11,000+ miles, the E63 S proves reliable, with strong residuals and 25mpg possible for gentle drivers. The non-S model (563hp, 3.6sec 0-62) offers similar pace on smaller wheels for better ride/ride noise at a £3,000 discount—ideal for most. Servicing suits performance demands, but fuel costs mount if thrashed.
Performance Wagon Verdict
The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Estate is a dual-personality marvel: luxury liner by day, track weapon by demand. Its V8 swan song (ending post-2023) will be missed, but it sets the benchmark for fast estates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the E63 S Estate faster than a supercar?
Yes, its 3.5-second 0-62mph beats many exotics like the Ferrari Enzo by 0.2 seconds, despite weighing nearly two tons.
How practical is the boot?
Exceptionally so—640 liters standard, up to 1,820 folded, with power-folding seats and low load floor.
What’s the fuel economy like?
Averages 25mpg in real-world use; EPA 16/23 city/highway. Highway tests hit 22mpg.
Should I choose E63 or E63 S?
Non-S saves money, rides better on smaller wheels, and is nearly as quick—perfect for daily use.
Is it comfortable for long trips?
Absolutely in Comfort mode, with plush seats, quiet cabin, and adaptive suspension.
References
- Long-term test review: Mercedes-AMG E 63 S — Auto Express. 2023. https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/mercedes/e-class/102613/long-term-test-review-mercedes-amg-e-63-s
- Mercedes-AMG E63 S Review: The Best Super Saloon Of All Time? — CarThrottle. 2023. https://www.carthrottle.com/reviews/mercedes-amg-e63-s-review-best-super-saloon-all-time
- 2023 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Review, Pricing, and Specs — Car and Driver. 2023. https://www.caranddriver.com/mercedes-amg/e63-s-4matic
- Mercedes-AMG E63 S+ estate review: first UK test — Top Gear. 2023. https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/mercedes-benz/e-class-estate/e63-s-4matic-5dr-9g-tronic/first-drive
- Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 Estate (2020-2023) Review — Carwow. 2026. https://www.carwow.co.uk/mercedes/amg-e63-estate
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