Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Performance Package Plus Is Bound for U.S.

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AFFALTERBACH, Germany — Mercedes-Benz USA has confirmed for Inside Line that the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Performance Package Plus, which boosts output by 30 horsepower, is bound for the U.S. early in 2010, but pricing on the optional package has not yet been finalized.

"Yes," responded Mercedes-Benz USA spokesman Rob Moran in an e-mailed message when asked about U.S. plans for the package. "We'll likely adapt the engine modifications as part of the existing P30 package for the C63. Expect this early next year. Sorry, but a price has not been finalized."

The package will be launched in December in Europe. Pricing for the sedan and wagon models in that market ranges from the U.S. equivalent of approximately $9,629-$10,609.

Mercedes-Benz says the package is aimed at the "power hungry" driver.

The power boost is due to the 6.3-liter V8 engine's modified engine compartment, said the automaker in a statement. The modifications include forged pistons adopted from the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. The tweaks boost output by 30 horsepower to 487 hp for both sedan and wagon models. With the addition of the package, the C63 AMG sprints from zero to 60 mph in less than 4.4 seconds, beating the standard 457-hp model by up to 1.2 seconds, said Mercedes-Benz. Other details include an AMG high-performance braking system and an AMG performance steering wheel.