What It Is: Our latest educated take on what the wildest and most powerful derivative of the next-generation Mercedes-Benz C-class will look like. Powered by a twin-turbocharged V-8, the C63’s performance will rival that of the Audi RS5 and the BMW M3. Traditionally, the AMG version is differentiated from regular C-class models by its large front air intakes, distinct grille, side skirts, and a different rear fascia with four large exhaust pipes, and this one won't stray from the formula. It may look pedestrian to the uninitiated, but closer study reveals the purpose-built nature of this wheeled missile.

This high-performance M3 fighter will be engineered for all-day autobahn travel at triple-digit speeds as well as serious track duty. Inside, it will be distinguished from its lesser siblings by sports seats, a performance steering wheel, and a centrally mounted gear selector. Down the road, we expect to see a Europe-only wagon version, a coupe, and possibly a convertible.

View Photos Top: 2015 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG (artist's rendering). Bottom: 2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507

Why It Matters: The AMG version of the C-class has delivered the goods in the past, and there is every reason to believe the new model won't disappoint. The bummer is that it loses its predecessor's naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V-8 engine, although the downsized, twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 that replaces it should pacify all but the most nostalgically minded brand aficionados. This car will aim to bring supercar power within the reach of upper-middle-class customers. And it will impart a considerable halo effect over the entire C-class lineup.

Platform: The C63 AMG is a derivative of the W205 C-class; as such, it shares many chassis, powertrain, and electronics components with the current and next-generation E-class and S-class. The AMG version will continue to be offered with rear-wheel drive, but a 4MATIC all-wheel-drive derivative is possible down the road.

Powertrains: The C63 AMG moniker will be even more misleading than before, given the displacement of the twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8. This new engine, which is shared with the upcoming AMG GT, will make well over 450 horsepower, and future Black Series iterations could easily pack and additional 100 horses. As with the current C63, the new version will only be available with an automatic transmission; there are no manuals in AMG's present or future. We believe the AMG gearbox will keep seven speeds for some time; Affalterbach’s torque-rich engines certainly do not require the nine-speed transmission which Daimler has announced for non-AMG models.

Competition: Audi RS5, BMW M3, Cadillac ATS-V.

Estimated Arrival and Price: The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG will be unveiled in the fall of 2014 as a 2015 model. Deliveries begin in the first quarter of 2015, and the base price of a sedan will fall slightly north of $60K.

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