(continued from above)
The combination of AMG Adaptive Suspension with the adaptive damping system
and a new front axle arrangement, plus new electro-hydraulic AMG sports steering
delivers supreme handling and dynamics. From a visual standpoint, the 2012 CLS63
AMG cuts an impressive figure with its athletic stance and distinctive exterior
and interior design. The brand new active LED high-performance headlights are
available as an option, with LED Daytime Running Lamps fitted as standard.
"The new CLS63 AMG writes the next chapter in the success story created by
the CLS55 AMG and CLS63 AMG, which have been amazing our customers around the
world since 2004," says Ola Källenius, General Manager of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
"The CLS63 AMG is a unique, high-performance automobile - it sets new benchmarks
in design, performance and efficiency."
As with the S63 AMG and CL63 AMG,
drivers of the CLS63 AMG benefit from the new eight-cylinder motor known
internally as the M 157. The new AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine features a
combination of high-tech components - in addition to spray-guided gasoline
direct injection with piezo injectors, it boasts an all-aluminum crankcase,
four-valve technology with variable camshafts, air-water charge-air cooling,
generator management and stop/start system. From 5,461 cc, the eight-cylinder
generates a maximum output of 518 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. In combination
with the optional AMG Performance Package, output rises to 550 hp and 590 lb-ft.
Both versions of the CLS63 AMG deliver exceptional performance - acceleration
from 0 to 60 mph takes 4.4 and 4.3 seconds respectively, with a top speed of 155
mph in the standard version and 186 mph with the Performance Package
(electronically limited. All figures are preliminary).
The key difference
between the two performance levels is the maximum charge pressure of the twin
turbochargers, which is 14.5 psi in the standard CLS63 AMG and 18.8 psi with the
Performance Package. Moreover, the version with the Performance Package boasts
an attractive engine cover with carbon-fiber applications.
Exclusive
Interior Ambience
This philosophy is also carried into the interior.
All AMG-specific styling and equipment features are a perfect match for the new
design of the CLS interior. The wrap-around effect in the cockpit, with the high
line flowing in a single sweep from the driver door across the dashboard to the
passenger door is flanked by generously proportioned and finely detailed trim -
in the case of the AMG flagship model, this comes as standard in burl walnut
wood veneer. Piano black lacquer and carbon-fiber trim elements are available as
options. Material quality and workmanship is of the highest order and provide a
highly exclusive ambience. The extensive range of standard equipment includes
AMG sports seats in premium leather, a new AMG three-spoke performance steering
wheel with aluminum shift paddles and a flattened rim top and bottom and the AMG
DRIVE UNIT with compact E-SELECT shift lever.
Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG: Review (2/2)