“Hybrid” used to mean “slow” but the Mercedes AMG C63 SE Performance, with 670 HP from a turbo 4 hybrid powertrain, is anything but.
While Mercedes-Benz’s naming nomenclature remains unnecessarily long, the brand has acknowledged that V8 engines are going to become rare and expensive options reserved for only the top-end performance models. At the same time, the C63 SE Performance perfectly demonstrates how the marriage of small-displacement turbo engines and electric motors can deliver performance that matches or exceeds traditional V8 models.
Let’s dig into the juicy details, starting with the 2.0 liter turbo four-cylinder that cranks out 469 horsepower and 402 lb-ft of torque – almost as much power as the new naturally-aspirated Mustang GT. Not content to stop there, Mercedes adds an electric motor to the rear axle good for another 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, resulting in total output of 670 horsepower and, at its peak, over 750 lb-ft of torque. Those are absolutely bonker numbers that completely dismiss the myth that hybrids are still slow, boring cars.
Of course, it being a Mercedes-Benz means there are more features than anyone could ever need, including eight driving modes (shoutout to Drift mode), rear-wheel steering, and all-wheel drive to name a few. Add in all the AMG Performance goodies, from bigger brakes to custom interior seat stitching, and you have a classy performance hybrid that will leave conventional sports cars in the rearview mirror.
SOURCE | IMAGE: CARBUZZ.
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