Mercedes-Benz was quite busy at the 2009 New York Auto Show, debuting several new models. One of them was the high-performance 2010 E63, tuned by the company's AMG performance division.

2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG
This hot-rod sedan is based on the redesigned 2010 E-Class. It's powered by a 518-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine and 7-speed automatic transmission. Specific go-fast goodies include a new electronically controlled sport suspension, specific 18-inch wheels, and unique trim. Mercedes says the E63 will do 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. For those wanting to walk on the wild side, the antiskid system can be completely disabled.

An optional AMG Performance Package includes 19-inch forged alloy wheels, firmer performance suspension, locking rear differential, and a less-restrictive speed limiter, increasing top speed to 186 mph.

Newly available for the E63, and other 2010 E-Class models, is Mercedes' ATTENTION ASSIST, which uses sensors to detect when a driver might start to become drowsy at the wheel. Most of the system's attention gets focused on steering inputs. If it detects erratic motions, the sensors sound an audible warning, followed by a display in the instrument cluster.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineup is launching this spring. Mercedes officials hinted at the possibility of a 4-cylinder turbodiesel model coming to the U.S. It would have 210 horsepower and get up to 44 mpg. The company will gauge public and critic reaction before any decision is made. The E63 is due in late-calendar 2009. Pricing will be announced closer to that model's official introduction.

CG Says...
The latest iteration of the company's high-performance midsize sedan should provide plenty of competition for the likes of the BMW M5 and Cadillac CTS-V. Hopefully an E63 coupe won't be too far behind as something to compete with a BMW M6 or Jaguar XKR.

For more information on hundreds of new cars of today and tomorrow, check out:

• New York Auto Show Home Page
• Consumer Guide's 2009 Auto Show coverage
  
• Consumer Guide New Car Reviews and Prices: Road test results, photos, specifications, and prices for hundreds of new cars, trucks, minivans, and SUVs from the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide.
• Consumer Guide's 2009 Best Buys and Recommendeds: Our Best Buy and Recommended picks focus on overall vehicle value and take into account performance, economy, reliability, ease of use, comfort, and price.
• Future Cars: Check out what's just on the horizon.