Mercedes-Benz CLE

There is a saying that goes "Kill two birds with one stone" and Mercedes-Benz killed off both the C-Class Coupe and the E-Class Coupe to create the first-ever CLE, the only two-door Mercedes coupe you can buy today.

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe

With prices starting at 58,132 Euros plus additional costs, the first-ever Mercedes-Benz CLE is the only non-AMG two-door coupe you can find at a Mercedes-Benz dealership near you and while it is not interested in your "speedo boy" games, the CLE is the ideal weekend getaway car for you to unwind after a long week.

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe interior

Beginning with the design, the CLE's front came from the W206 C-Class while the rear view came from the Mercedes EQ saloon family and the silhouette looks broadly like the now-defunct C-Class Coupe. Asked about the dimensions, the CLE is sized between the two now-defunct coupes, which is a balancing act, of course.

As for the interior, it's all typical "new normal" Mercedes dashboard you can expect in the CLE because it comes with a 12.3-inch digital display and a portrait-oriented 11.9-inch central display as well as ambient lighting features with indirect lighting strips, an available Ambient Lighting Plus package, a new Easy-Entry function to gain access to the rather cramped rear seats, the latest MBUX, and a choice of three sound system configurations at launch, including the Burmester 3D surround sound system. 

Asked about the boot space, the CLE Coupe can carry up to 420L of goodies at the back, more than what you get from the C-Class Coupe.

The CLE Coupe offers a choice of a four-cylinder 2.0L petrol engine and a 2.0L four-cylinder turbodiesel engine at launch. Both come with mild-hybrid tech and a 9-speed automatic gearbox. The most powerful for now is the CLE 300 with 281PS power output and 400Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 6.2 seconds and has an electronically-limited top speed of 250kph. The CLE 220 d, meanwhile, has 4.7L/100km of fuel economy, but no one's buying on it even in this motoring climate.

Although it shows little interest in the fun side because this is a normal Mercedes coupe with a slim prospect of an AMG version, the dynamics made it feel like a grand tourer that values comfort over performance, which is unheard of in a two-door Mercedes like this. Coupled with the DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL, DYNAMIC SELECT, and a sports brake system, drivers can enjoy it in various ways and means in a rather dramatic way.

For safety, the CLE Coupe comes with the available Parking Package with a 360° camera, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Brake Assist, DISTRONIC Active Distance Assistant, and the available Driving Assistance Package Plus. Such features made drivers difficult to explain why lodged in a coupe like this.

Although it drives like a regular luxury car, the CLE is the only good-looking luxury coupe you can find at your nearest Mercedes dealership, which is ideal if you don't like the looks of today's BMW 4-Series. No pressure but still, it is a modest two-door coupe that prefers to be taken lightly, not hardly. Story of its life.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

Mercedes-Benz E-Class W214

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class W214 signals the evolution of the E-Class lineage and with dramatic changes inside and out, it's no doubt becoming the most advanced E-Class ever made.

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Starting at 61,999 Euros plus additional costs, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class W214 is the most advanced E-Class ever made thanks to the dramatic improvements inside and out, making it capable of tackling the demands of the new normal.

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain

Just like the previous version, the W214 E-Class is offered in three different body styles such as the sedan, the estate, and the outdoor-oriented All-Terrain with slightly increased ground clearance. Whichever E-Class you're on, you will still be greeted by the new design that looks like it's been borrowed from its sedan relatives, the C-Class and the S-Class. Not bad for a middle child of the family tree. Although it's hard to distinguish between the three, the sizing makes it easy to differentiate it from its relatives because, as I said, this is the middle child of the Mercedes sedan range and it deserves extreme attention to detail at first contact.

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class interior

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate interior

Unlike its C-Class and S-Class brothers, the new interior prefers the dashboard layout inspired by the Mercedes-EQ range and with the rather controversial Superscreen equipped, it now behaves just like its EQ relatives because with two touchscreens on the dashboard, it's the ideal time-waster for those who love to play around the car's insides. Care for some Netflix and chill while stuck in traffic, I presume?

While the added Superscreen is deemed too flashy for speedo boys behind the wheel, the passenger side is classic E-Class comfort, and with the added Energizing Comfort wellness program, Energizing Coach program, and Thermotronic climate control with Digital Vent Control, the out-on-a-limo feeling truly hits the W214's sweet spot.

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The W214 E-Class, depending on which body style you're on, offers a wide range of petrol (E200), diesel (E220d), and PHEV configurations (E300e and E400e). All are mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox.

The cheapest version, the E200 Avantgarde Advanced, features a 2.0L turbo engine with mild hybrid, producing 204PS of power and 320Nm of torque with a fuel economy of 6.4L/100km. The most powerful version for the time being is the E400e with the 4MATIC four-wheel-drive system, where the said engine is bolted to an electric motor and a 25.4kWh lithium battery, capable of producing 381PS of total power output, 650Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 5.3 seconds, and an electronically-limited top speed of 250kph.

To make the E-Class W214 capable of driving like every E-Class should, it has a front four-arm suspension, rear five-link suspension, and Agility Control steel-sprung for MHEV vehicles, but to get the most out of it, it comes with the available Airmatic air suspension with ADS+ continuously variable damping and rear-axle steering setup. Such setup will bring dynamism to the all-new E-Class and looks like high-rollers can't wait to get their hands on it.

Because this is the E-Class for the new normal, the W214 features a wide range of ADAS such as Active Distance Assist, Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Parking Package with reverse camera, Speed Limit Assist, Attention Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, and the available Driving Assistance Plus with Active Steering Assist that vibrates the steering wheel when lane markings are no longer clearly visible and Active Steering Assist is no longer available.

The all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class W214 is the most advanced E-Class to date thanks to its dramatic improvements inside and out. It really is the E-Class for the new normal and like it or not, it's prepared for almost everything life throws at it.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV

The third all-original Mercedes-EQ SUV, the EQE SUV, serves as the middleman of the Mercedes-EQ crossover range. So, what's it all about the first-ever EQE SUV? Time for some unanswered questions.

2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV

Starting at 83.478.50 Euros plus additional costs, the EQE SUV is the third all-original Mercedes-EQ SUV that slots between the EQC and the EQS SUV, the middleman of the range. Although it couldn't find a suitable opponent in its class, in terms of sizing and pricing, the EQE SUV feels unrivaled at the moment.

2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV

As expected, the EQE SUV is basically an EQS SUV that was shrunk to GLE sizing but despite the Russian doll effect, the EQE SUV is athletic and dynamic in every angle. Who says electric crossovers can't be sexy?

2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV interior

Inside, the EQE SUV's dashboard can be configured in two ways; a tall touchscreen that works like a Tesla or the super-sized touchscreen that occupies the entire dashboard which is known as the MBUX Hyperscreen. On the passenger side, the EQE SUV is good for up to five people and because it's too expensive to be used as a family mover, the only purpose the EQE SUV can do is escort pro-democracy politicians, philanthropists, and other good people who care the environment more than anything else. As for the boot space, it can carry up to 1,675 liters of goods with the split-folding rear bench folded down. For business or leisure, the EQE SUV does it all.

The base EQE 300 SUV variant has 180kw of power output and 573km of driving range based on WLTP standards while the EQE 350 can be configured in either rear-wheel-drive or with 4MATIC, producing 292 PS of power, 565 Nm of torque, and driving range between 480-590 km per WLTP standards, and the top-of-the-line EQE 500 4MATIC with 408 PS of power output, 858 Nm of torque output, and driving range between 460-547 km.

2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 SUV and
2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 SUV

Those who want more should consider the Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV range. In addition to signature AMG elements inside and out, the high-performance models are bolted to a 90.6 kWh Li-ion battery pack with a maximum recuperation capacity of 260 kW. 

The EQE 43 SUV has 476PS of power and 858Nm of torque, making it capable of going 0-100kph in 4.3 seconds and flat-out at 210kph. The EQE 53 SUV, meanwhile, produces 625PS of power and 950Nm of torque by default but thanks to an optional extra, stats have raised to 687ps and 1,000Nm, making it capable of a 0-100kph time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h.

Although the driving feel is rather mild because of the bulk of the electric powertrain or probably it needs the added subscription service that makes it sharper to drive, the EQE SUV features a high level of passive and active safety such as Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Parking Package, and Speed Limit Assist as standard.

The Assistance Package (includes Active Distance Assist Distronic, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist) and Driving Assist Plus Package (Active Steering Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, cross-traffic functions, Evasive Steering Assist, Pre-Safe Plus) are optional extras for added levels of safety.

For an unrivaled electric luxury crossover that has the looks of the EQS SUV and the size of the GLE, the EQE SUV takes pride in being a class of its own because not a single luxury electric crossover dared enough to challenge. Maybe someday, someone will.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

My GT7 Log: Know Your Legends - Mercedes-Benz 190E Evo II

Let's get to know about the legendary cars that are hard to get in Gran Turismo 7's Legend Cars not only because of their extreme rarity that appears once in a blue moon but also their outrageous price tag that takes almost forever to save one. Today, let's get to know about the Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II, the retro super saloon that is as close as you can get to its touring car equivalent.

Topbilled as the ultimate version of the Mercedes-Benz 190E, the Evolution II is a rare limited edition sports sedan designed for German Touring Car races, with a 0-100kph time in 7 seconds. Its distinct exterior design includes a rear wing, front air dam, side skirts, and flared fenders, and a Momo steering wheel in a performance-oriented interior. The suspension has upgraded stiffer springs and shocks, larger brakes, and a limited-slip differential. Only 500 units were produced, making it a sought-after collector's item and an iconic vehicle representing advanced engineering and racing pedigree.

Let's take the 190E Evo II around the Goodwood track to see how much racing pedigree this retro super saloon possesses. Roll the tape.

It did it in 1m34.307s.

With its touring car looks and performance, the 190E Evo II always strives and prospers for more. Looks like me and the 190E are "unbounded" for each other. Get it? Unbounded.

What other hard-to-get legendary cars should I drive next? Stay tuned for more.

Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance (X254)

The all-new Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance is the ultimate version of the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC crossover that pushes the boundaries of what a GLC can do and with such performance, this is the GLC that is too cool to be ignored by latecomers everywhere.

2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance

2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance
Coupe

Starting at 121,856 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new GLC63 S E Performance, in normal and coupe versions, is what happens when the second-generation GLC gains some superpowers and plans to use it either for good or for evil. Whatever path it crosses, the new model prefers to go nearly quietly unlike the old GLC63 from a distant past because of its electrified powertrain that is deemed controversial by AMG fanatics.

Although it looks similar to its lesser brother, the GLC43, with some minor alternations to its detailing in order to differentiate it from the lesser one, as well as the same interior that can be fitted with optional Performance Seats, the GLC63 S E Performance throws away the predecessor's V8 power in favor of the 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine armed with the electric drive unit, AMG High-Performance Battery, belt-driven starter-alternator, and electric exhaust-gas turbocharger, creating a P3 Hybrid layout that produces 680PS of power output and 1,020Nm of torque, more than the previous model it replaces.

Mated to an AMG Speedshift MCT 9G gearbox, the GLC63 S E Performance can sprint from 0-100kph in 3.5 seconds, and with an optional extra, it has a top speed of 275kph, making it the quickest GLC ever spawned. 

Controversial the P3 Hybrid powertrain is, the GLC63 S E Performance delivers arm-wrestling dynamics most will liken it to wielding a humongous ax in the woods even while fiddling with the AMG Dynamic Select, AMG Ride Control steel-spring suspension with Adaptive Damping System, three-stage variable steering, rear axle steering, ESP, and its AMG high-performance composite brake system. Although extremely bulky to drive due to its PHEV powertrain, it feels capable of lashing out through tarmac, gravel, and snow like it's payday.

Yes, like its C63 S E Performance equivalent, the all-new GLC63 S E Performance's electrified drivetrain sounds muffled for speedo boys behind the wheel but everything else, the intense performance proves that this GLC is willing to use all of its superpowers for good or for evil. Whichever path it tips through, the world's burning with jealousy over the all-new GLC63 S E Performance because this is too cool to be ignored by latecomers everywhere. We just want one.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

Mercedes-AMG GLC43 (X254)

The second-generation Mercedes-AMG GLC43 is the entry-level AMG version of the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC crossover that balances the practicality and performance you would expect for Stage 1 of the AMG-fied GLC.

2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC43

Starting at 86,870 Euros plus additional costs, the X254 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 is all about checks and balances fit enough for what's known to be a decent rival to the Audi SQ5.

Although it looks and feels just like the normal GLC, the GLC43 is kitted with signature AMG elements on the outside as well as sports seats (AMG Performance seats optional), and the available AMG TRACK PACE data logger that displays your on-track performance on the move, among many other AMG-fied features you can find in this entry-level AMG crossover.

In tune with the times, the X254 GLC43 is armed with a smaller 2.0L 4-cylinder engine featuring the world's first electric exhaust gas turbocharger. Inspired by AMG's F1 involvement, this new electrified and compact engine produces 422PS of power and 500Nm of torque. Mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox and the rear-biased AMG Performance 4MATIC, it does 0-100kph in 4.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250kph.

For a semi-high-performance crossover that delivers a decent balance of performance and practicality everywhere, the all-new GLC43 feels down-to-earth intermediate to drive, even amateurs can get hooked on its sporty characteristics its possess. Although not much of a challenge, the all-new GLC43 is a great start to the AMG-fied GLC lineup. Consider this a warm-up exercise, boys and girls.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

Mercrdes-Benz GLC (X254) Coupe

The second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC has a coupe version and this variant offers the same stuff you would expect from its normal equivalent but with the sloping roofline worth noticing.

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe

Priced at 62,594 Euros plus additional costs, the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe is the sloping roofline version of the C-Class-based crossover that is all about getting ready for what lies ahead.

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe interior

For starters, it looks and feels just like the normal second-generation GLC with its matured looks, a large touch screen that is loaded with the MBUX user interface that includes the Alexa-ish "Hey Mercedes" voice function, the optional ENERGIZING Pack Plus for your comfortable driving pleasure, and make use of the available MBUX Augmented Reality for easier navigation purposes, among many others. Because this is the coupe version, the total boot space has been slashed by 190L with the rear seats folded down, making it less spacious than its normal GLC but it's more spacious than the previous GLC Coupe so job done.

Like the normal GLC, the coupe version feels as balanced as the C-Class it was based on. With the standard 4MATIC, available rear-wheel steering, four-link front suspension, rear multi-link suspension, and various chassis options to choose from, it feels like it's ready to take on almost anything.

It also features an electrified range of 4-cylinder petrol, diesel, and PHEV powertrains, all mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox and 48v MHEV tech. The most powerful version goes to the GLC 400e with its 2.0L turbocharged engine bolted to an electric motor and a lithium battery, generating a total power output of 381PS, 650Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 5.6 seconds, and 239kph of top speed. Driving on electrics, it's good for 130km on one full charge.

The GLC Coupe features a wide array of safety systems such as Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Car-to-X communication, Active Brake Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, Active Parking Assist, Parking Package, PRE-SAFE, and DIGITAL LIGHT.

This or the BMW X4?

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

My FH5 Log: "WE WON JUNK CARS AGAIN, WE DRIVE A LOT"

The collaboration between Forza Horizon 5 and Donut Media continues with the Upgrade Heroes series update where players gained full access to the Horizon Test Track feature, originally accessible only to the Donut Media Horizon Story last December 2022, as well as the recent swarm of, you guessed it, JUNK CARS! LOTS AND LOTS OF JUNK CARS!

The highlight of the recent barrage of JUNK CARS is the arrival of the Donut Media Nissan 350Z (Fairlady Z) cars as featured in the Donut Media Hi Low segment. In case you don't know, the Donut Media boys ran the Hi Low segment where they buy two identical used cars and then modify them with a specified budget. 

Nolan's Z33 costs $20,000 worth of cheap modifications while James' Z33 costs $50,000 worth of "really nice" modifications. Both of these modified cars were booted with new coilovers, wheels, tires, new car paint, and some turbochargers. In typical project car fashion, both cars break down, but hey, long story short.

Both of these Donut Media Z33 cars can be won just by clearing both Hi Car and Low Car Horizon Stories. You can even keep your very own Z33 Fairlady Z after the finale as well as other prize cars in store for both stories.

Rather than comparing these two Donut Media Z33s just to determine "does more expensive really mean more better", I decided to let these cars enjoy themselves at the Horizon Badlands against the competition, just to experience the "MO POWA BABEH" mantra both Donut-modified Z33s had. (cue guitar riff noise)

MO POWA BABEH! Guess these Donut Z33s didn't break down just like what James and Nolan experienced it during their little experiment.

The Donut-modified Nissan Z33 Fairlady Zs weren't the only junk cars in store in the Upgrade Heroes update. A trio of junk cars made a comeback in Forza Horizon 5 such as the Syclone, the Typhoon, and the SL65 AMG Black Series.

First up, the GMC Syclone that I won from the Storm Season Playlist. Based on the GMC Sonoma pickup truck, the Syclone has a turbocharged 4.3L V6 engine equipped with a Mitsubishi TD06-17C 8 cm² turbocharger and Garrett water/air intercooler. It develops 280HP of power and 475Nm of torque while mated with a 4-speed automatic. 0-60mph takes about 5.3 seconds and based on a Car & Driver test, it does a quarter-mile run in 14.1 seconds at 93 mph.

Next up is the GMC Typhoon that I won from the Dry Season Playlist. Based on the Jimmy SUV, the Typhoon features the same specs as its Sonoma-based Syclone pickup truck. It has a turbocharged 4.3L V6 engine equipped with a Mitsubishi TD06-17C 8 cm² turbocharger and Garrett water/air intercooler. It develops 280HP of power and 475Nm of torque while mated with a 4-speed automatic.

Lastly, the Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series that I won from the Hot Season Playlist. Using the R230 SL65 AMG as its basis, the Black Series is an upgraded version of the said model which comes with an improved version of a 6.0L V12 twin-turbo engine mated with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS five-speed automatic transmission. With the engine developing 661HP of power, it is the most powerful V12-powered AMG vehicle ever. 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds and top speed limited to 199mph. Aside from its raw power, the Black Series is 250kg lighter than the regular SL65 because of the use of light carbon fiber composite (CFRP) parts and replacing the foldable hardtop roof with a fixed roof.

Having gotten to know the recent swarm of junk cars, let's thrash them across the Horizon Badlands, and see if these clunkers got any chance of surviving these punishing courses...

Wow, these junk cars managed to survive. I guess immortality is their middle name.

As the Donut boys would say, "WE BUY JUNK CARS, WE PAY A LOT. DEPENDING ON THE YEAR THO". Judging by the recent swarm of junk cars looks like we're going to be sticking around with a potential next wave of junk cars until the final series update of FH5 before the transition to the 2023 Forza Motorsport game coming this October.

Could this day get any worse for me as the Horizon Mexico adventure is nearing its twilight? Ah, junk cars...

Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance (W206)

The all-new Mercedes-AMG C63 range, which is based on the W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, signals the beginning of the era of the subtler AMG machines because the newest AMG machines are no longer the monster machines of the past because, being built for the new normal, they have sacrificed its monstrous selves for the sake of subtler, more powerful forms. In short, they're no longer as loud as they used to be.

2023 Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance Estate

2023 Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance

Starting at an estimated 115K Euros plus additional costs, the all-new Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance, in sedan and estate forms, is no longer the C63 the world remembers because despite being a W206 C-Class on steroids, what's underneath is not what you call a treat because we live in the new normal and for this new model, electrification is a sin the new model has committed.

Although it looks similar to its lesser brother, the C43, with some minor alternations to its detailing to differentiate it from the lesser one, as well as the same C-Class interior that can be fitted with optional Performance Seats, the C63 S E Performance's powertrain is not a pleasant sight for speedo boys behind the wheel because, under the hood, the previous model's V8 engine has been thrown away sadly and replaced by the same 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine as the A45 but it's been added with the new electric drive unit, AMG High-Performance Battery, belt-driven starter-alternator, and electric exhaust-gas turbocharger, creating a P3 Hybrid layout that produces 680PS of power output and 1,020Nm of torque, more than the previous model it replaces.

Mated to an AMG Speedshift MCT 9G, the super saloon gone commando has a 0-100kph time of 3.4 seconds and with an optional extra, 280kph flat-out. 270kph if you're in the estate version.

Although the P3 Hybrid powertrain is deemed controversial for AMG fanatics, the C63 S E Performance drives like a sports car as expected. By playing around with the AMG Dynamic Select system with seven driving modes and a customizable Individual mode, you can experiment with various ways and means to get yourself addicted to this car. Running on Electric mode, it's good for up to 125kph of top speed while the Battery Hold mode keeps the battery state of charge constant. 

Plunging into Race mode, the C63 S E Performance is ready to unleash mayhem on the track. Taking advantage of its AMG Ride Control steel-spring suspension with Adaptive Damping System, three-stage variable steering, rear axle steering, ESP, and its AMG high-performance composite brake system, this 4WD executive car on steroids can dance despite the bulk of its PHEV powertrain. Although less noisy than its V8-powered predecessor, it can surely make a mess out of it.

While the PHEV powertrain is an absolute turn-off compared to the old V8-powered model, the all-new C63 S E Performance is like an upper-class sewer rodent pampered with style. Despite its quiet behavior, it can surely be an aggressive schizophrenic when the opportunity arises. The world's getting jealous about this high-performance PHEV super saloon right about now because, with such power despite its controversial powertrain, you can really kiss your ugly-looking BMW M3 goodbye.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

My FH5 Log: The AMG GT's final bullet

Since its 2015 debut, the Mercedes-AMG GT is one of the most dramatic sports cars the high-performance division has ever made and with all that motorsport know-how, it seems that Mercedes really made a well-balanced sportscar that ticks all the right boxes.

Having enjoyed the normal AMG GT and the muscled GT R, at last, the final bullet of the first-generation AMG GT has been fired and I'm calling the shots.

Yes, this is the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series that I won in FH5's Upgrade Heroes Wet Season playlist and now that I've got it, it's time to have a word with what's known to be the AMG GT's final form.

The AMG GT Black Series features aerodynamics inspired by the Mercedes-AMG GT3 racing machine, making it a road-legal track toy in its own right. Apart from the race-inspired aerodynamics, the 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine has been tuned to produce 730PS of power output, making it the most powerful ICE-powered AMG model ever built. Mated to a 7G-DCT, it has a top speed of 325kph. It lapped the Nurburgring Nordschleife in 6:48.047, which is faster than the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ, although beaten by a modified Porsche 911 991.2 GT2 RS, which was later beaten by the FH5 hero car, the Mercedes-AMG ONE.

Although being avenged by its big brother, the ONE, the AMG GT Black Series is a serious track weapon that can be enjoyed either on the road or on the track, and when you let its turbocharged V8 engine loose, it really means big business for what's rudely called a road-legal GT3 racer. Still, it was pretty impressive trying out the car that has been longly demanded by Forza fanatics from the start.

To test the AMG GT Black Series' potential, I've pitted it against a squad of track weapons on the oval track, just to experience the GT3-inspired aerodynamics and the turbocharged V8 superpower it possesses. Roll the tape.

Not quite flawless but a win's a win for AMG's ultimate ICE-powered sports car ever made.

The AMG GT Black Series truly is the final bullet of the first-generation AMG GT that is proven to be a serious track weapon that can be enjoyed either on the road or on the track. Although it marked the end of the first chapter, the next chapter will soon be written, but rest assured, it won't be forgotten for many generations to come as the greatest ICE-powered AMG machine ever made.

Could this really be the best Black Series machine? Find out soon as I'll rally the past Black Series machines as they'll settle the scores once and for all which AMG Black Series car is the best. Watch this space.

My GT7 Log: The evolution of the AMG GT

The Mercedes-AMG GT became part of the Gran Turismo heritage ever since it became the hero car of 2017's Gran Turismo Sport, and here in Gran Turismo 7, it's been joined by two powerful versions; the R and the Black Series. Like a good Rider with powerful forms, the AMG GT has evolved from a no-nonsense sports car to the ultimate road-and-track warrior it was born to be.

So, how much the Mercedes-AMG has evolved from the normal one to the ultimate version known as the Black Series? Let's examine its metamorphosis.

Beginning with the original Mercedes-AMG GT, it doesn't count as a worthy successor to the SLS AMG because of the power output that separates these two but needless to say, the AMG GT's newly developed 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine produces almost the same amount of torques as the defunct SLS AMG. The S version produces 502HP of power and 478.8ft-lb of torque while mated to a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT. It does 0-60mph in less than four seconds and has a top speed of 193mph. Performance aside, the AMG GT features an aluminum spaceframe with an intelligent material mix on the body which sets the new standards for modern sportscars and results in lightweight but rigid sportscars that accommodate rather well with its drivetrain. 

Apart from that, the AMG GT comes with other key points that make it capable on the road and on the track such as an electronic rear-axle locking differential, race-derived double wishbone suspension, and electronically-controlled damping with AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package and ceramic high-performance composite brake system.

The AMG GT R is a high-performance variant of the AMG GT sports car that uses a specifically tuned version of the AMG 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine that produces 585HP of power and 700Nm of torque while mated to a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT. It does 0-100kph in 3.6 seconds and has a top speed of 318kph. 

It features a new active aerodynamics profile hidden underneath the body and when in RACE mode, the aerodynamics produces a Venturi effect, sucking the car onto the road and reducing the front-axle lift by around 40 kilograms at 250 km/h. It even has an active air management system, the AMG coil-over suspension, active rear-wheel steering, AMG TRACTION CONTROL, rear-axle limited-slip differential, and speed-sensitive sports steering.

The AMG GT Black Series is the ultimate version of the AMG GT sports car, and although flattering to call it the road-legal version of its GT3 racing car equivalent, it features the most powerful internal combustion engine AMG has ever spawned; a 730PS 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine mated to a 7G-DCT, capable of hitting 325kph of top speed. It lapped the Nurburgring Nordschleife in 6:48.047, which is faster than the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ.

With all three AMG GT variants got their word, it's time to find out how much the AMG GT has grown from when it was first launched to its final form, and with that, it's off to the Nurburgring Grand Prix track to conduct this experiment.

This is the ideal send-off to the C190 Mercedes-AMG GT because, with the said sportscar no longer in production, this will be a tribute to what is known to be one of the most influential sports cars to come out from the mid-2010s. Let's find out the true meaning of metamorphosis with the AMG GT. Roll the tape.

...and now the results...

AMG GT - 2m20.053s

AMG GT R - 2m18.128s

AMG GT Black Series - 2m12.334s

From its debut to the Black Series, the Mercedes-AMG GT has evolved from a no-nonsense sports car to the ultimate road-and-track warrior it was born to be. Although gone, it's not really the end of the Mercedes-AMG GT storyline because pretty soon, the next chapter will soon be written, and let's hope it will be as good as this while keeping up with the challenges of the new normal.

For the AMG GT, this is not the end. This is only the beginning...

Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance (W223)

The all-new Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance ushers to the age of the new normal because of the electrified performance inspired by the Mercedes-AMG GT63 E Performance, the king of AMG saloons. The unrivaled high-performance premium flagship sedan has gone to the dark side, literally.

2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance

With prices starting at nearly 210K euros plus additional costs, the Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance is no longer the AMG flagship we're fond of because it has gone through the dark side of electrification, thank you New Normal. Anyway, what's it all about the new S63 E Performance?

For starters, it looks and feels like a normal S-Class judging by its looks, the massive touchscreen that adds irritation to speedo boys behind the wheel, the MBUX user interface, the long wheelbase, and tons of high-tech safety features loaded to it. Since this is the AMG model, the S63 features signature AMG elements on the exterior, carbon fiber panels on the dashboard, and a choice of two interior colors; Peak Performer and Luxurious Athlete, each with fine AMG stitching in the seats. With the AMG treatment in the bay, you can rest assured that this is a premium flagship sedan on steroids.

Under the hood, the S63 E Performance runs on the same plug-in hybrid setup as the GT63 E Performance; meaning you can expect the same 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine bolted to a high-performance electric motor. However, it's been toned down to produce 802PS of power and 1430Nm of torque. Mated to a 9-speed SPEEDSHIFT MCT, it does 0-100kph in 3.3 seconds and has an electronically-limited top speed of 250kph. That's all.

Asked about fuel economy, it's good for 4.4L/100km combined based on the WLTP scale.

In terms of dynamics, the S63 E Performance is a challenging feat because of its titanic weight but once you get hooked with its AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, AMG RIDE CONTROL+ suspension, rear-axle steering, and the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT, you'll find plenty of reasons to enjoy this monster saloon that doesn't sound monstrous but behaves like one spectacularly.

Although less powerful than the king of AMG saloons, the GT63 E Performance, the all-new S63 E Performance is what happens when you inject a gentleman's limousine with anabolic steroids and show off its beastly side, not in a furry kind of way but in a furious way. As the unrivaled high-performance flagship saloon no one dared to challenge, the all-new S63 surely knows who's in control and such power deserves respect because respect is everything with this.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz

My FH5 Log: Be The ONE

Since Horizon Europe, The Goliath became the tradition in every Horizon Festival as the ultimate race reserved for the festival's finest, and Mexico is no exception.

Having tackled every race at Horizon Mexico, the time's come to take on the festival's "final boss", The Goliath. As the name implies, it's the biggest circuit race ever assembled. The ultimate cannonball run for the festival's fastest drivers.

Although not as big as the festival's extreme races such as The Colossus and The Gauntlet, it's still the most challenging and you'll need more than speed to bring down the final boss of the festival.

As they said, "where it all began, where it all must end". This means I'll be using the cover car of Forza Horizon 5, the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE, for Horizon Mexico's final battle. It started it all, it must end. No exceptions.

Because The Goliath is the most challenging race ever assembled, cars need to be maxed out to be prepared and for the Project ONE, it's time to make the necessary preparations before tackling the festival's Super Bowl.

The AMG Project ONE is now fully prepared to take on The Goliath. I've even added a pretty touch to it, saying it's time to unleash...CHAOTIC HURRICANE! Get it? The song of the hysteric bunny the world knows.

Speaking of chaos, tackling The Goliath is no joke as this race requires more than just speed and endurance to show the whole festival who's the boss. From the Riviera Maya, the Copper Canyon, the Bahia De Plano, and La Selva, all the way back to the Riviera Maya, admiring the Mexican scenery is not welcome in The Goliath as speed, endurance, and overall awareness are essential for winning the festival's final battle.

I'm used to tackling Goliaths in past Horizon adventures and the Mexico one is no exception as I'm getting ready to take on the drive of my life, but before that, I made a very special request. Since this is all about The Goliath, my request will be a free-for-all-cars race starting at dawn.

With my special request commissioned, it's time for me and the ONE to take on The Goliath against well-kept festival veterans on reserve. It's time to finish it off. LET'S iGO! Wait, what? Anyway, LET'S iGO!

The Goliath is done. Horizon Mexico dominated. Mission complete!

Now that The Goliath's finally behind me and with the entire Horizon Mexico dominated, the question now is, what should I do next? I've finished all of the races but...since this is Horizon, the fun never ends.

My Horizon Mexico journey's over because I've completed all of the races but because of the surprises in store for me, feels like I would like to explore some more for the time being.

With that, THE JOURNEY CONTINUES!