Mercedes-AMG has unveiled a significantly upgraded version of its C 63 line-up at a special preview event in Manhattan on the eve of this year’s New York International Auto Show.

Now featuring redefined drive programs, cosmetic enhancements and standard tech improvements including a transmission upgrade to the nine-speed ‘AMG Speedshift MCT 9G’ unit used in the E 63, the new C 63 arrives hard on the heels of revised C-Class coupe, cabriolet and C 43 models launched earlier this month.

The new car, offered in sedan, coupe, cabriolet and wagon variants, boasts a retuned AMG ‘Ride Control’ (steel) suspension with adaptive damping adjustment, as well as tweaks to the (electronically-controlled) limited-slip differential, and dynamic engine mounts.

In terms of exterior design, an AMG-specific radiator trim incorporates vertical louvres finished in high-gloss chrome, there’s a modified transverse fin in the outer air inlets, and an ‘A-wing’ front apron treatment.

Aero refinements continue with distinctive side skirts and new 19-inch five (twin) spoke alloy rims which AMG says were developed for “an optimal combination of aerodynamics, weight and brake cooling”.

The rear features remodelled twin tailpipe trims in high-gloss chrome, and a more aggressive diffuser design.

An optional ‘AMG Aerodynamics package’ for the C 63 Coupe incorporates a pronounced front splitter, spoiler lip with an integral Gurney flap, broader side skirt inserts, flics (aero canards) in the rear bumper, and a diffuser insert finished in high-gloss black.

The rear features remodelled twin tailpipe trims in high-gloss chrome, and a more aggressive diffuser design.

Inside, a range of new trim elements includes anthracite open-pore oak wood, open-pore walnut, plus the combination of longitudinal-grain aluminium for the doors and black open-pore ash wood for the centre console.

Upholstery choices include a new nappa leather combination of ‘magma grey’ and black with yellow contrast top-stitching.

A digital instrument cluster (which may or may not be standard for Australian spec) is built around a 12.3-inch screen displaying three AMG-specific layouts – ‘Classic’, ‘Sporty’ or ‘Supersport’.

The system allows a vast array of functions and data to be dialled up, including engine and systems status, G-force, and race timing. An optional ‘AMG Track Pace’ package adds race circuit graphics down to individual sectors, specific bends, braking points, and delta speeds.

The facelifted C 63 also debuts a new generation AMG flat-bottom sports steering wheel, trimmed in nappa leather, with ‘Touch Control’ buttons now managing the instrument cluster, multimedia system, cruise control, and phone voice control activation.

The facelifted C 63 debuts a new generation AMG flat-bottom sports steering wheel.

Also new is the ‘AMG Dynamics’ system incorporating ‘Basic’, ‘Advanced’, ‘Pro’ and ‘Master’ parameter settings (engine response, suspension, ESP), which overlay pre-set driver preferences across six drive programs (‘Slippery’, ‘Comfort’, ‘Sport’, ‘Sport+’, ‘Race’ and ‘Individual’).

Although final Australian specification and pricing is yet to be confirmed, Mercedes-Benz Australia says deliveries are scheduled to start in August this year, with all four C 63 variants offered locally, in the premium S configuration.

That means a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine producing 375kW from 5500-6250rpm and peak torque of 700Nm between 2500-5000rpm, with the nine-speed transmission featuring a wet start-off clutch for even quicker gearshift response.

The 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine produces 375kW/700Nm.

Mercedes-AMG claims the new C 63 S Coupe will storm from 0-100km/h in 3.9sec (sedan 4.0sec) and on to an electronically-limited maximum velocity of no less than 290km/h.

Pricing for the current C 63 S ranges from just under $160,000 for the sedan, to just over $180,000 for the cabriolet version.

Check out all the 2018 Mercedes-AMG C63 price and spec here.