Keen petrol-heads know that any recent AMG ? no matter its form or shape ? is a humdinger. To be kept in mind, too, the Estate is embodied with all the strengths of its C63 saloon counterpart such as safety, agility and comfort ? this couched with spaciousness and versatility. To that end the new AMG C 63 Estate has another 'estate' hat trick in the tailgate that opens and closes automatically at the push of a button.

Another plus factor is its lower fuel consumption than previously, some 12 percent down, but sadly still of copious proportions and one of the few downsides of an otherwise mightily impressive vehicle. And for those still seeking an excuse to purchase the Estate C 63, you'll be pleased to learn it was awarded an Environmental Certificate conforming to the environmental international ISO standard.

When driven with some verve it's positive, responsive and willing to comply with your inputs. However on the Kyalami Circuit it did not match its C63 sedan sibling, being some three seconds slower ? the prior days? heavy rains having cleansed most rubber off the surface causing our track tester man, Michele, to state, "It seemed as quick, but the clock proved it slower".

We reckon that could be another second or so quicker, this mainly caused through Turn One. However a big upside was its braking abilities with no fade apparent, even after five hard laps.

Although the Estate moniker may be misleading, it's fitted with the AMG sports package with shorter springs, firmer shock absorbers, 17-inch light-alloy wheels and 15mm lower bodywork than the normal everyday version.

On top of its safety measures mentioned elsewhere other safety features include belt tensioners, belt-force limiters and crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints.

For sheer enjoyment the C63 Estate is also fun to drive. Hopefully that youngish, unsuspecting dude in the Blue Subaru STI will recount to his buddies the truth and nothing but the whole truth.