Overview
Forget hot hatches or other high-powered station wagons, the 2019 Mercedes-AMG E63 S wagon is a special breed of absurdly powerful and awesomely quick cars. Based on its equally extraordinary counterpart—the Mercedes-AMG E63 S sedan—this version boasts sexy longroof styling and extra practicality. While rivals such as the Jaguar XF Sportbrake are equally flashy, only the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo lineup has exorbitantly priced models that offer similar jaw-dropping performance.
Engine, Ride, and Handling
The E63 S wagon cages a sinister-sounding 603-hp twin-turbo V-8 mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic+ all-wheel drive. This setup helped the superwagon we tested explode from zero to 60 mph in 3 seconds flat and obliterate the quarter-mile in 11.2 seconds at 126 mph. Consider this: the much lighter and similarly powerful Mercedes-AMG GT R we tested was actually 0.3 second slower to 60 mph and posted the same time in the quarter-mile. Other AMG upgrades on the E63 S wagon versus the regular Mercedes-Benz E-class wagon include a sport-tuned suspension, bigger brakes, and a rear-drive-only mode that enables ass-out antics. Every version rides on an adjustable air suspension that adjusts the ride quality, but the softest setting still feels firm. The E63’s communicative steering and impressive braking ability—70 mph to zero in only 153 feet—confirm its high-performance pedigree.
Interior and Technology
Despite the E63 S wagon’s exhaust-popping and tire-squealing demeanor, its sumptuous interior preserves serene noise levels and the company’s luxury predisposition. Likewise, the list of standard cabin features includes customizable ambient interior lighting, heated and ventilated front seats, massaging front seats, and more. Every model has driver-assistance technology such as automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and self-parking assist; a slew of high-tech options include semi-autonomous driving aids. With a spacious back seat and up to 64 cubic feet of cargo space (35 cubes with all seats up), the 2019 Mercedes-AMG E63 S wagon is as amazingly quick as it is amazingly useful.