The Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG has long been synonymous with breathtaking performance and sophisticated luxury. For the 2014 model year, Mercedes-Benz elevates this legacy even further, introducing an enhanced lineup headlined by the exhilarating CLS 63 AMG S-Model. This new variant isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a statement, boasting performance figures that redefine its class, thanks to the integration of performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a potent AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine.
At the heart of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S-Model lies a marvel of engineering: the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine. This powerplant, internally known as the M157, has been meticulously tuned to deliver an astounding 577 horsepower and a staggering 590 lb.-ft. of torque. Mercedes-Benz AMG continues to champion efficiency without compromising on power, achieving a remarkable balance of high performance and commendable fuel economy, an achievement that remains unmatched within its competitive landscape.
Mercedes-Benz AMG is expanding its performance portfolio by equipping a selection of high-performance sedans and coupes, including the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG, with a specially engineered AMG version of the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. This system is meticulously calibrated for sporty driving dynamics, offering drivers an unprecedented level of performance and control within this vehicle segment. Joining the ranks of successful AMG SUVs like the ML63 AMG, GL63 AMG, and G63 AMG, the CLA, E-Class, and CLS-Class now feature five distinct models available with the standard high-performance AMG 4MATIC system, broadening the appeal and capability of the AMG lineup.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, aptly stated, “The S-Models in particular represent the most attractive proposition in the segment. With its superlative power and torque ratings and the new performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the CLS 63 AMG is without parallel in its Coupe and Shooting Brake variants. Our AMG 5.5-liter V8 engine remains the most efficient series production V8 engine in the world. The new, customized model variants provide greater scope than ever for individual solutions.”
| CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC 4-door Coupe | CLS 63 AMG S-Model 4MATIC 4-door Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5.5-liter | 5.5-liter |
| Rated power output | 550 hp at 5,250 – 5,750 rpm | 577 hp at 5,500 rpm |
| Peak torque | 531 lb.-ft. at 1,750 – 5,000 rpm | 590 lb.-ft. at 2,000 – 4,500 rpm |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph (prelim) | 3.7 seconds | 3.6 seconds |
| Top speed (electronically limited) | 155 mph | 186 mph |
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S-Model 4MATIC firmly establishes its dominance in the high-performance coupe arena, achieving a blistering 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.6 seconds. This exceptional performance is not solely attributed to the increased power output but also significantly enhanced by the performance-oriented all-wheel-drive system, which features a rear-biased 33:67 front-to-rear power distribution. This intelligent system ensures optimal traction during rapid acceleration, effectively minimizing wheel slip and contributing to its electronically limited top speed of 186 mph.
The enhanced performance of the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S-Model stems from meticulous refinements to the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine, now producing 577 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque. This represents a substantial 27 horsepower increase over the previous AMG Performance Package, which was available as an optional upgrade. These gains are realized through optimized engine electronics and an elevated turbo boost pressure, increased from 0.9 to 1.0 bar. Even the standard CLS 63 AMG model benefits from these advancements, boasting 550 hp and 531 lb.-ft. of torque, a notable 32 hp increase compared to its predecessor. Despite the surge in power and performance, all Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG models maintain impressive fuel efficiency and low exhaust emissions, reinforcing the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine’s position as the most efficient high-performance V8 in production.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed Sports Transmission: Precision and Versatility
A key component in the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG’s performance arsenal is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed sports transmission. This transmission offers a remarkable degree of customization, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences and conditions. Four distinct drive programs – “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus), and “M” (Manual) – provide a spectrum of driving modes. In “C” mode, the focus is on smooth, comfortable gear shifts, with the ECO start/stop feature activated to enhance fuel efficiency by automatically shutting off the V8 engine when the car is stationary. In this mode, the car typically starts in second gear for gentler acceleration.
Switching to “S”, “S+”, or “M” modes transforms the driving dynamics, making the engine and transmission noticeably more responsive and agile. In these sportier modes, the ECO start/stop function is deactivated, and the transmission employs sophisticated techniques like momentary suppression of ignition and injection during full-throttle upshifts. This results in incredibly fast gear changes accompanied by a thrillingly sporty sound. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed sports transmission also includes automatic rev-matching during downshifts and the RACE START function as standard features, further enhancing the driving experience, particularly for performance enthusiasts.
Performance-Oriented 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive: Maximizing Driver Engagement
The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system in the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG is engineered to deliver maximum driving excitement while ensuring exceptional control. The system intelligently distributes engine torque with a rear-biased ratio of 33:67 between the front and rear wheels. This rear-wheel-drive emphasis is crucial for providing the exhilarating driving dynamics and handling characteristics expected from an AMG vehicle, allowing for playful cornering and a more engaging driving experience.
The 3-stage ESP® (Electronic Stability Program) has been specifically calibrated to work in harmony with the full-time all-wheel-drive system. In “SPORT Handling” mode, the Torque Vectoring Brake system further enhances agility by selectively applying braking force to individual wheels. Subtly braking the inside rear wheel during cornering generates a yaw moment, promoting impressively neutral steering response and allowing for sharper turn-in.
The core of the AMG 4MATIC system is a transfer case seamlessly integrated with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed sports transmission. This compact design minimizes space intrusion and adds minimal weight – only about 155 lbs – to the vehicle. Torque transfer to the front wheels is facilitated by a power take-off, a propeller shaft, and a front differential. An intermediate shaft, cleverly routed through a sealed duct in the engine oil pan, transmits power to the left front wheel. A multi-plate clutch with a locking force of 37 lb.-ft. manages the torque distribution across all four wheels, dynamically adjusting to driving conditions for optimal traction and performance.
CLS 63 AMG S-Model: Enhanced Traction with Limited-Slip Rear Differential
Taking performance a step further, the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S-Model is equipped standard with a limited-slip rear differential, integrated within the rear final drive. This advanced technology elevates traction even further, resulting in superior vehicle dynamics and amplified driving enjoyment, especially in demanding driving scenarios like track days. The limited-slip differential optimizes power delivery to the rear wheels, minimizing wheel spin and maximizing grip during cornering and acceleration.
All Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG models feature the AMG Adaptive Sports Suspension, incorporating an electronically controlled damping system. Drivers can easily switch between suspension modes – “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” – via a dedicated button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT. The front suspension utilizes a steel-spring system, while the rear axle is fitted with a load-leveling air suspension system, ensuring a balanced combination of ride comfort and dynamic handling.
The three-link front suspension in both the S-Model and the standard CLS 63 AMG with all-wheel drive has been further refined. Newly developed aluminum control arms enhance grip, agility, and steering neutrality during high-speed cornering. The S-Model benefits from exclusive, more performance-focused elastokinematics, providing drivers with even more neutral handling and improved feedback and wheel grip at the limits of adhesion. A wider front track (increased by 0.9 inches or 2.4 cm) contributes to enhanced stability at higher cornering speeds and improved road feel. Increased negative camber on all wheels further optimizes cornering performance.
AMG’s electromechanical speed-sensitive steering complements the chassis setup, offering a rack-and-pinion steering ratio of 14:1 for agile handling in curves. The variable power assist adapts based on the selected suspension mode, providing optimal steering feel and responsiveness in all driving situations.
The high-performance S-Model distinguishes itself visually with exclusive 10-spoke light-alloy wheels finished in matte titanium gray with a high-sheen rim flange. The standard CLS 63 AMG features triple five-spoke light-alloy wheels painted titanium gray with a high-sheen finish. Both models are equipped with 255/35 tires on 9 x 19-inch wheels at the front and 285/30 tires on 10 x 19 rear wheels.
AMG High-Performance Braking Systems: Exceptional Stopping Power
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG is equipped with a robust AMG high-performance braking system featuring 14.2-inch ventilated and perforated brake discs on both front and rear axles. The front discs utilize AMG’s compound disc technology, extensively validated in motorsport, to withstand extreme thermal loads. The standard CLS 63 AMG features brake calipers with a grey finish and white AMG lettering, incorporating six pistons at the front and four pistons at the rear, ensuring rapid, fade-resistant braking and short stopping distances.
For the ultimate in braking performance, an optional AMG ceramic composite brake system is exclusively available for the S-Model. Easily identifiable by even larger 15.8-inch brake discs and bronze metallic calipers adorned with the “AMG Carbon Ceramic” logo, this system offers unparalleled heat resistance and extended service life due to the exceptional hardness of ceramic brake discs. Furthermore, the ceramic system is approximately 40 percent lighter than the standard system, reducing unsprung mass, which in turn enhances handling, agility, and ride comfort.
S-Model Design Differentiation: Subtle yet Distinctive
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S-Model is subtly differentiated through unique design cues. Red brake calipers and an “S” in contrasting black on the AMG logo on the trunk lid immediately identify the S-Model. Inside, the standard black premium nappa leather interior of the S-Model features silver seat belts and contrasting gray stitching on the AMG sports seats, center door panels, door armrests, steering wheel, and center console. The AMG Performance steering wheel, trimmed in black Premium leather with Alcantara® grip areas, is flattened at the top and bottom. The front head restraints of the AMG sports seats are embossed with the AMG crest directly into the premium leather. The AMG instrument cluster further distinguishes the S-Model with an “S AMG” logo on the speedometer and red accents on the dials. Illuminated AMG door sill panels with white backlighting complete the exclusive appointments of the S-Model.
Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG: Immersive Audio Experience
An exceptional optional feature available for all Mercedes-Benz CLS models is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system. Developed in collaboration with renowned Danish audio specialists Bang & Olufsen, this system delivers an unparalleled auditory experience. Capable of Dolby Digital 5.1 playback, the system features a 1,200-watt amplifier and 14 high-end speakers with neodymium drivers. An integrated digital sound processor (DSP) manages music signal distribution, offering a unique level of audio fidelity and customization.
The COMAND system provides access to a dedicated B&O sound menu, offering features like True Image™ mode, which allows individual sound settings for the front, center, and rear, creating a realistic soundstage at the chosen listening position. Preset sound modes within the “Sound Mode” menu allow users to select between a high-end “Reference” studio sound and immersive surround sound. “Reference” mode prioritizes faithful reproduction of the artist’s intended sound, while the surround sound mode creates a spacious and enveloping listening experience, particularly enhancing live recordings and concertos with a panoramic soundscape within the vehicle. Illuminated 50-watt tweeters with acoustic lens technology in the mirror triangles and high-end speaker covers in silver chrome with Bang & Olufsen logos further highlight the exclusivity of this exceptional sound system.
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC and the new CLS 63 AMG S-Model 4MATIC marked their U.S. market launch in August 2013, setting new benchmarks for performance and luxury in the four-door coupe segment.
