CLS 63 AMG (Germany, 2011)

Mercedes-Benz and AMG brought to the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show a new top-of-the-range version of the CLS: the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG.

In terms of design, the CLS 63 AMG features some cues from the SLS AMG like the radiator grille with its large Mercedes star and wing-shaped horizontal slats. The top-of-the-range AMG distinguishes itself from the other CLS variants thanks to its distinctive bonnet, wider mudguards with "V8 BITURBO" logo and a specific AMG front apron with black painted cross member. At the back the CLS 63 AMG features a diffuser insert, the AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid, the AMG sports exhaust system with dual twin chrome tailpipes. As featured on the SLS AMG, the CLS also has integrated rear foglamp.

The new CLS 63 AMG is powered by the newly developed AMG V8 biturbo engine, which features a maximum power output of 557 hp, torque of 800 Nm and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. With a displacement of 5461 the CLS 63 AMG is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds or 4.3 seconds (when equipped with the AMG Performance package) and to reach a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically controlled). According to Mercedes-Benz the new vehicle has fuel consumption of 9.9 litres per 100 km (NEDC). This represents a 32 per cent improvement, compared with the previous model. In terms of C02 emissions, the CLS 63 AMG emits 232g of CO2 per km.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission was one of the features which contributed to the reduction in fuel consumption on the CLS 63 AMG. Unlike a conventional automatic transmission, the MCT transmission does away with the torque converter; instead, it makes use of a compact, wet start-up clutch. The lightweight construction also made a significant contribution. Like with the SLS AMG, the CLS 63 AMG has been fitted with doors featuring a full aluminium construction, instead of the conventional steel doors. Adding to this, the bonnet, front wings, boot lid, parcel shelf, various support sections as well as major parts of the chassis and engine are all made from aluminium too.
Another new feature on the CLS 63 AMG are the LED High Performance headlamps, which are fitted as standard.