Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG US Version, 2012
The top-of-the-range version of the four-door coupé is equipped with the newly developed AMG V8 biturbo engine, featuring a peak output of up to 557 hp and 800 Nm of torque, as well as the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. On top of this, the vehicle's fuel consumption of 28.5 mpg represents an improvement of 32 per cent compared with the previous model (all figures provisional).
The combination of an AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with an electronically controlled damping system and new front axle, newly developed electromechanical AMG sports parameter steering, and also optional AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system, is synonymous with maximum driving dynamics. Visually, the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG impresses with its athletic appearance and distinctive exterior and interior design. The model's standard specification also includes innovative LED High Performance headlamps.
Like the S63 AMG and CL63 AMG, drivers of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG will benefit from an eight-cylinder powerhouse, designated internally as the M 157: the new AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine boasts a combination of innovative high-tech components which, in addition to spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, also include a full aluminium crankcase, four-valve technology with camshaft adjustment, air/water intercooling, generator management and stop/start system. With a displacement of 5461 cc, the eight-cylinder engine develops a peak output of 525 hp and torque of 700 Nm. In conjunction with the AMG Performance package, these figures increase to 557 hp and 800 Nm. Both variants of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG achieve exceptional performance: acceleration from! 0-62 mph takes 4.4 and 4.3 seconds respectively, and the top speed is 155 mph (electronically limited).
The major difference between both power units is the increase in the maximum charge-air pressure from 1.0 to 1.3 bar. In addition, the CLS63 AMG with the AMG Performance package features a special high-quality carbon fibre engine cover.
Quantum leap: fuel consumption reduced by 32 percent
Despite a significant performance increase compared with the previous model, which had a naturally aspirated AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine producing 514 hp and 630 Nm of torque, the new Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is some 32 per cent, more economical - which represents a quantum leap forward.
The NEDC fuel consumption of 28.5 mpg equates to a CO2 output of 232 g/km. The new V8 Coupé from AMG not only undercuts all of its direct competitors in the small but refined four-door high-performance coupé segment, but is also more fuel efficient than significantly lower-powered vehicles. Both performance variants have identical fuel consumption and CO2 figures.
Exclusive: AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission
A major contribution towards achieving the unrivalled consumption figures has been made by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, a component used exclusively at Mercedes-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. Also fitted as standard equipment is the stop/start function: it is permanently active in the transmission's Controlled Efficiency ("C") mode, and switches the eight-cylinder engine off when the car comes to a stop. At the same time, "C" mode also means a "soft" accelerator response set-up with convenient and early gearshifts; moving off generally takes place in second gear. A green "ECO" symbol in the AMG instrument cluster shows the driver that the stop/start function is active.
The engine and transmission come across as much more agile in the "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual) modes; in addition, the stop/start function is switched off. In "S" and "M" modes, the engine management system partially suppresses the cylinders: interrupting ignition and injection under full load leads to even faster gearshifts than before. The highly emotional vocals are an appealing side effect of this lightning-fast process. An automatic double-declutching function and RACE START function are also included as standard.
Autonomously developed AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension
The suspension, steering and braking system of the new CLS63 AMG complement the high-tech drive system perfectly. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, with steel suspension struts on the front axle and air suspension struts on the rear axle, as well as automatic level control, is enhanced further by an electronically controlled damping system; it automatically adjusts the damping characteristics depending on the driving conditions and reduces the roll angle of the body. The result: lightning-fast adjustment between optimum driving comfort and the best possible agility. The driver can switch between the three suspension modes of "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport plus" at the press of a button.
The autonomously developed front axle, with a track width which is 24 mm wider, is the perfect match for the newly developed electromechanical AMG sports parameter steering. It not only features variable power assistance which adapts according to the suspension mode, but also contributes towards reducing fuel consumption, since the steering assistance system only draws power when the vehicle is actually being steered. The 3-stage ESP® also has individual setting options - thereby providing a definite advantage when it comes to combining driving pleasure with absolute driving safety.
AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system available as an option
Perfect deceleration even when driving extremely briskly is ensured by the AMG high-performance braking system with 360 mm, internally ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round. Particularly resistant, motorsports-tested composite technology is used on the front axle. The optional AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system with yet larger brake discs guarantees an even higher level of braking performance as well as lower unsprung masses. Good contact with the road, meanwhile, is provided courtesy of the titanium grey-painted, high-sheen AMG light-alloy wheels featuring a new triple-spoke design and fitted with 255/35 R 19 tyres on the front and 285/30 R 19 tyres on the rear.
Intelligent lightweight construction: making a significant contribution to efficiency
The highest level of engineering is also reflected in the body of the new CLS63 AMG: the intelligent lightweight construction makes a significant contribution towards addressing the classic conflicting goals of low weight and high strength. Like the SLS AMG, the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is also fitted with doors featuring a full aluminium construction. They consist of deep-drawn aluminium panels with extruded sections, and are around 24 kg lighter compared with conventional steel doors. In addition, 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.
Light-years ahead: LED High Performance headlamps as standard
The Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is the first passenger car in the world to offer LED High Performance headlamps, which combine the exciting colour elements of LED technology - similar to those of daytime running lamps - with the performance, functionality and energy efficiency of today's bi-xenon generation. Fitted as standard, for the first time ever this new light system provides the Intelligent Light System already proven in Mercedes models fitted with bi-xenon headlamps in combination with LED technology. The headlamps, with their 71 LED lamps in total, underline the unmistakable appearance of the CLS63 AMG. The light specialists from Mercedes-Benz have for the first time been able to use LED technology in the Adaptive Highbeam Assist, resulting in an entirely new level of safety when driving at night.
In contrast to the first vehicles equipped with LED headlamps, no compromises are now necessary with respect to the functionality and performance of the lighting technology. There are further arguments for the new, LED-based lighting technology: the average operating life of an LED is around 10,000 hours, around five times longer than that of a xenon light; moreover, LED headlamps most closely approximate the colour temperature of daylight. This means that LED light is in keeping with normal human perception patterns. Studies have shown that the closer the colour of artificial light comes to daylight, the less strain there is on the eyes. With a colour temperature of 5500 kelvin, LED light is closer to daylight (6500 K) than xenon light (4200 K). The LED daytime driving lights specific to AMG are also presented in two characteristic light strips integrated into the AMG front apron.
Exterior design inspired by the SLS AMG
When viewed from the front, the new Mercedes CLS63 AMG evokes associations with the SLS AMG - the radiator grille in particular, with its large Mercedes star and wing-shaped horizontal slats, appears to have been inspired by the gullwing. The top-of-the-range AMG model distinguishes itself from the other CLS variants with its distinctive bonnet, wider mudguards with "V8 BITURBO" logo and a specific AMG front apron with black painted cross member. Eye-catching features at the rear include the diffuser insert, the AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid, the AMG sports exhaust system with dual twin chrome tailpipes, and - as also featured on the SLS AMG - integrated rear foglamp. The AMG bodystyling perfectly matches the typical CLS outline, which is essentially characterised by the elegantly long proportions, the lateral dropping line and the muscular sports car-like shoulder line above the rear axle.
Exclusive atmosphere in the interior
This philosophy also continues through consistently into the interior. All of the AMG-specific design and appointment features ideally supplement the redesigned CLS interior. The wrap-around effect in the cockpit, with its high line which sweeps from the driver's door over the instrument panel support and across to the front passenger door, is generously flanked by high-quality trim elements - available in black piano lacquer as standard in the top-of-the-range AMG model. Quality materials and workmanship meet the very highest of standards and help to guarantee a particularly exclusive atmosphere.
The extensive range of standard appointments also includes AMG sports seats in nappa leather, a new three-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles and flattened top and bottom sections, and the AMG DRIVE UNIT with compact E-SELECT selector lever.
New driving assistance systems: greater safety
More than a dozen driving assistance systems on the new CLS help to prevent traffic accidents and reduce the severity of an accident. The Active Blind Spot Assist and the Active Lane Keeping Assist are new.
Active Blind Spot Assist warns the driver if it detects - with the assistance of short-range radar sensors - that there is a danger of collision if the vehicle is about to change lanes. Should the driver ignore the warnings and come dangerously close to the vehicle in the next lane, Active Blind Spot Assist will intervene. By applying braking force to the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle via the Electronic Stability Program ESP®, a yaw movement is created which counteracts the collision course.
Active Lane Keeping Assist is now also linked to the ESP for the first time. This system kicks into action if the driver inadvertently drifts over a solid line to the right or left of a lane. In this case, Active Lane Keeping Assist brakes the opposite wheels and thereby prevents the vehicle from crossing the line. A display on the instrument cluster warns the driver at the same time. If broken lane markings are crossed, the system controls an electric pulse generator in the steering wheel which generates vibrations for a short time - a discreet but highly effective cue to countersteer immediately. Before the braking system intervenes, the steering wheel always vibrates to provide a warning.
Design and equipment: The exclusively styled athlete - a true AMG
Distinctive, exclusive, unique - the design of the new CLS63 AMG can be described in just a few words. The exceptional position occupied by the four-door high-performance Coupé is apparent from the very moment you set eyes on it. High-quality materials, comprehensive standard equipment, and a dynamic ambience typical of an AMG are the defining elements of the newly designed interior.
Externally, the top-of-the-range AMG model differs from the other CLS variants as a result of some specific visual modifications. The front view is dominated by the distinct radiator grille, the three-dimensional shape of which is very reminiscent of the SLS AMG. The large Mercedes star and prominent wing-shaped horizontal grille slat with chrome trim are equally evocative of the gull-wing model. The long bonnet with its V-shaped contour hints at the powerful package which lies beneath.
The AMG front apron is also markedly powerful: thanks to the drawn-out side air intakes with black grilles - flanked by LED daytime driving lights - and central air intake with black-painted cross strut, it makes for a real head-turning feature. A further highlight of the front view are the LED High-Performance headlamps. The characteristic AMG front apron continues stylishly into the broad wings, with integrated "V8 BITURBO" logo. The side view - which is defined by an innovative interplay between lines and areas, the lateral "dropping line" and also the wide-set wheel arches - receives an additional touch of dynamism courtesy of the titanium grey-painted high-sheen AMG light-alloy wheels, which feature a new triple-spoke design. The filigree spokes also provide a glimpse of the generously dimensioned AMG high-performance braking system.
The powerfully shaped rear end of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is an equal match for the car's front and side views: the exciting profile of the AMG rear apron with black diffuser insert also incorporates the dual twin chrome tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system as well as the rear fog lamp. The wide wraparound bicolour tail lamps featuring LED technology and the wide metal insert make for additional visual highlights.
The harmoniously integrated AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid helps to reduce lift at the rear axle by around 26 percent and further enhances handling at high speeds.
The interior
The impression of the interior on opening the doors is defined by the exquisite quality of finish and the "wraparound" effect which is typical of the CLS: a high line sweeps in an arc from the driver's door over the instrument panel support and across to the front passenger door, ensuring a feeling of security. Onlookers will discover the highest quality of materials, for example in the generous use of black piano lacquer trim elements. Up to seven layers of paint are applied and polished off until the desired high-sheen finish is achieved. An even more exclusive touch can be give to the interior with the optional AMG trim elements in carbon fibre/black piano lacquer.
The same goes for the leather upholstery: the AMG sports seats in nappa leather with cross-stitch sports design feature a surface quality which is particularly soft to the touch, making any journey in the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG an exceptionally pleasant experience. The driver and front seat passenger are accommodated in separate, newly developed AMG sports seats with electric adjustment, multicontour and memory functions, seat heating and AMG badges. All interior elements with which the driver comes into contact are finished in leather. Three colours of leather, namely black, alpaca grey and almond beige, are available to choose from. The two individual seats in the rear are designed to match the front AMG sports seats.
The new AMG Performance steering wheel with its three-spoke design has aluminium shift paddles, flattened upper and lower sections as well as specially shaped grip areas covered in perforated leather. The three-dimensional airbag cover is embedded into a metallic trim element in "silver shadow", the lower spoke of which has an open design. Twelve multifunction buttons are used to control al of the infotainment functions. A special highlight is the high-quality analogue clock featuring an "IWC Ingenieur" design located between the centre air vents.
Colourful, three-dimensional display with AMG welcome logo
The three tube-shaped round cockpit instruments behind the steering wheel provide information on the coolant temperature and tank capacity (left), road speed (centre) and engine rpm (right). A highlight of the exclusive CLS63 AMG instrumentation is the colourful three-dimensional TFT display in the centre of the speedometer, which welcomes the driver by displaying a striking AMG logo when the driver's door is opened. The round instruments come with a new look, red needles, a 320 km/h speedometer scale and also a characteristic "AMG" and "V8 Biturbo" logo.
The AMG main menu, which is integrated into the central display of the speedometer, can be operated conveniently using the multifunction buttons on the steering wheel. The three modes "Warm Up", "Set Up" and "RACE" keep the driver well informed: "Warm Up" indicates the engine oil and coolant temperature, "Set Up" indicates the current ESP® mode, the suspension setting - "Comfort", "Sport" or "Sport plus" - and the transmission mode - "C", "S", "S+" or "M". In "RACE" the RACETIMER is ready; this allows the driver to record lap times on private racing circuits.
The AMG DRIVE UNIT, which is angled towards the driver, enables individual settings to be selected for the MCT sports transmission, the ESP functions, the suspension set-up and the AMG drive modes. Located in the centre console, the E-SELECT selector lever, which boasts a compact, sporty design and leather finish, can be simply nudged to shift directly between R, N and D, all thanks to drive-by-wire. The parking lock, meanwhile, can be activated simply by briefly pressing the P-button.
All of the controls in the interior are finished in high-quality "silver shadow" - from the button surrounds on the AMG DRIVE UNIT and the rotary switches on the automatic climate control, through to the buttons for such functions as seat heating or PARKTRONIC.
Standard equipment:
- AMG door sill panels in brushed stainless steel
- AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
- the luxury automatic climate control THERMOTRONIC
One of the highlights of the attractive optional extras is the AMG Performance package which is available for the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG. It comprises:
- an increase in the peak output of 24 kW (32 hp) and in the maximum torque of 100 Nm; genuine carbon fibre AMG engine cover
- genuine carbon fibre AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid
- red-painted brake calipers
- AMG Performance steering wheel with Alcantara inserts in the grip areas
Exclusive optional extras are also available from the AMG Performance Studio:
- AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension
- Lightweight forged AMG light-alloy wheels featuring a 5-twin-spoke design and fitted with 255/35 R 19 tyres at the front and 285/30 R 19 tyres at the rear
- AMG rear axle locking differential with 40 percent locking action
- AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system
- AMG Exterior Carbon package
- AMG trim elements in carbon fibre/black piano lacquer
- Illuminated AMG door sill panels
- AMG Driver's Package (includes restriction of top speed to 300 km/h, participation in driver training course at the AMG Driving Academy)
- designo: tailor-made individuality
A unique series of appointment details are available from the designo range for the CLS63 AMG which customers can use to reflect their own personal style.
The wide range of exclusive paint finishes, leather upholstery, trim elements and steering wheels provides for the proverbial tailor-made individuality. Seven designo colours, including two matt paint finishes, can be combined with ten designo leather colours. The Alcantara roof lining, available in three colour shades, rounds off the look perfectly.
