Mercedes-Benz continues to redefine automotive excellence with the 2014 CLS 63 AMG lineup, introducing a performance upgrade to its celebrated four-door coupe and unveiling an exciting new model: the CLS 63 AMG S-Model. This iteration of the Cls 63 Mercedes Benz not only elevates the standards of power and luxury but also integrates cutting-edge technology to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. At the heart of this upgrade is the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, paired with a formidable AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine, now enhanced to produce an impressive 577 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque in the S-Model. The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine, known internally as the M157, remains a marvel of engineering, achieving a remarkable balance of high performance and fuel efficiency, a combination that is still unmatched in its class globally.
Mercedes-AMG is extending its performance prowess across its sedan and coupe range by incorporating the AMG-engineered version of the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. This system is specifically tuned for sporty driving, offering a level of dynamism previously unseen in the segment. Expanding beyond the successful AMG SUVs like the ML63 AMG, GL63 AMG, and G63 AMG, the high-performance AMG 4MATIC system is now a standard feature in five distinct models across the CLA, E-Class, and cls 63 mercedes benz lines.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, emphasizes the significance of these models, stating, “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 cls 63 amg S-Model 4MATIC firmly establishes its position at the forefront of its class with an astonishing 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.6 seconds. This exceptional performance is not solely due to increased power but also significantly influenced by the performance-focused all-wheel drive system, which features a 33:67 front-to-rear power distribution. This setup ensures optimal traction during acceleration, effectively minimizing wheel slip, and allows for an electronically limited top speed of 186 mph.
Under the hood of the new cls 63 mercedes benz S-Model, the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine delivers a commanding 577 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque. This represents a substantial 27 hp increase over the AMG Performance Package, previously an optional upgrade for the coupe. This performance enhancement is achieved through refined engine electronics and an elevated turbo boost pressure, increasing from 0.9 to 1.0 bar. Notably, the standard CLS 63 AMG model also benefits from an increase, boasting 550 hp and 531 lb.-ft. of torque, marking a 32 hp improvement over its predecessor. Despite these power gains and enhanced performance metrics, all cls 63 amg models maintain impressive fuel efficiency and low exhaust emissions. The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine continues to be recognized as the most efficient high-performance V8 engine in production.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed Sports Transmission: Precision and Control
A key feature of the cls 63 mercedes benz is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed sports transmission, offering a high degree of customization. Drivers can select from four drive programs – “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus), and “M” (Manual) – to personalize their driving experience. In “C” mode, the focus is on smooth and comfortable gear changes. The ECO start/stop function is engaged, automatically shutting off the V8 engine when the car is stationary, and the vehicle typically starts in second gear for enhanced efficiency.
Switching to “S”, “S+”, or “M” modes transforms the vehicle’s character, making the engine and transmission significantly more responsive, while deactivating the ECO start/stop function. Specifically engineered for spirited driving, the transmission features momentary interruption of ignition and injection during full-throttle upshifts, resulting in rapid gear changes accompanied by a thrilling sound. Automatic rev-matching during downshifts and RACE START functionality are also standard features of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed sports transmission, optimizing performance for every driving scenario in the cls 63 amg.
Performance-Oriented All-Wheel Drive: Maximizing Driving Dynamics
The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system in the cls 63 mercedes benz intelligently distributes engine torque with a 33:67 ratio between the front and rear wheels. This rear-biased torque distribution is crucial for delivering exhilarating driving dynamics and superior handling. The 3-stage ESP® system is specifically calibrated to complement the full-time all-wheel-drive system. In “SPORT Handling” mode, the Torque Vectoring Brake system selectively applies braking force to individual wheels, enhancing agility. By subtly braking the inside rear wheel during cornering, the system promotes remarkably neutral steering response when turning into corners, further refining the handling of the cls 63 amg.
The core of the AMG 4MATIC system is a transfer case with a power take-off directed to the front wheels. Integrated seamlessly into the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed sports transmission, the transfer case design is remarkably compact. Torque is channeled from the power take-off through a propeller shaft to the front differential, and power is delivered to the left front wheel via an intermediate shaft that passes through a sealed duct within the engine oil pan. This efficient design minimizes the added weight of the all-wheel-drive system, contributing only approximately 155 lbs. A multi-plate clutch with a locking force of 37 lb.-ft. regulates the torque distribution to all four wheels as needed, optimizing traction and control in the cls 63 mercedes benz.
CLS 63 AMG S-Model: Enhanced Traction with Limited-Slip Rear Differential
The cls 63 mercedes benz S-Model elevates performance further with a standard limited-slip differential integrated into the rear final drive. This advanced component significantly boosts traction, resulting in enhanced vehicle dynamics and increased driving pleasure, particularly in demanding driving conditions and on racetracks.
All cls 63 amg models are equipped with AMG Adaptive Sports Suspension, featuring an electronically controlled damping system. By pressing a dedicated button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT, drivers can easily switch the suspension settings between “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus.” The front suspension utilizes a steel-spring system, while the rear axle is fitted with a load-leveling air suspension system, ensuring optimal ride quality and handling balance in the cls 63 mercedes benz.
The three-link front suspension has been further refined in the S-Model and the CLS 63 AMG equipped with all-wheel drive. Newly engineered aluminum control arms enhance grip, improve agility, and maintain neutral steering during high-speed cornering. Performance-optimized elastokinematics, exclusive to the S-Model, provide drivers with more neutral handling and enhanced feedback and wheel grip at critical limits. A wider front track, increased by 0.9 inches (2.4 cm), enhances stability during high-speed cornering and improves road feedback. Increased negative camber on all wheels also contributes to improved cornering performance in the cls 63 amg.
AMG’s electromechanical speed-sensitive steering system complements the vehicle’s dynamic setup. A rack-and-pinion steering ratio of 14:1 ensures responsive handling in curves, and the variable power assist adapts based on the selected suspension mode, providing optimal steering feel and control in the cls 63 mercedes benz.
The high-performance S-Model distinguishes itself with exclusive 10-spoke light-alloy wheels finished in matte titanium gray with a high-sheen rim flange. The standard CLS 63 AMG is fitted with triple five-spoke light-alloy wheels painted titanium gray with a high-sheen finish. Both models feature 255/35 tires on 9 x 19-inch wheels at the front, and 285/30 tires on 10 x 19 rear wheels, ensuring substantial grip and contributing to the dynamic stance of the cls 63 amg.
Optional AMG Ceramic High-Performance Composite Brake System: Unrivaled Stopping Power
The cls 63 mercedes benz is equipped with a high-performance AMG braking system featuring 14.2-inch ventilated and perforated brake discs on both front and rear wheels. The front discs utilize AMG’s compound disc technology, extensively tested in motorsport, to manage extreme heat effectively. 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 braking performance, an AMG ceramic composite brake system is exclusively available as an option for the S-Model. These are identifiable by larger 15.8-inch brake discs and bronze metallic calipers adorned with the “AMG Carbon Ceramic” logo. The exceptional hardness of ceramic brake discs offers superior resistance to extreme temperatures and extends service life. This ceramic system is also approximately 40 percent lighter, reducing unsprung mass, which enhances handling, agility, and ride comfort in the cls 63 amg.
S-Model Design: Subtle Yet Distinctive Enhancements
The cls 63 mercedes benz S-Model is subtly differentiated by red brake calipers and an AMG logo on the trunk lid highlighted with a contrasting black “S”. 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 in the S-Model are embossed with the AMG crest directly into the premium leather. The AMG instrument cluster also features 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, adding to the sophisticated ambiance of the cls 63 amg.
Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG High-End Surround Sound System: An Auditory Masterpiece
A standout optional feature for all cls 63 mercedes benz models is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system. Developed in collaboration with renowned Danish audio specialists Bang & Olufsen, this system provides an exceptional audio experience with Dolby Digital 5.1 playback capability. It features a 1,200-watt amplifier and 14 high-end speakers with neodymium drivers, along with a digital sound processor (DSP) that manages music signal distribution.
The DSP allows for selection of a specialized B&O sound menu within the COMAND system. In True Image™ mode, individual sound settings for front, center, and rear speakers can be adjusted to create a realistic sound experience at the chosen listening position. The “Sound Mode” menu offers preset sound modes, allowing users to choose between a high-end “Reference” studio sound and immersive surround sound. “Reference” mode prioritizes the artist’s intended sound, while the surround sound mode delivers a spacious auditory experience. Particularly with live recordings or concertos, this results in a unique panoramic sound within the vehicle without altering the natural sound of the recording, enhancing every journey in the cls 63 amg.
Illuminated 50-watt tweeters with acoustic lens technology, positioned in the mirror triangle, add visual sophistication, while high-end speaker covers in silver chrome with Bang & Olufsen logos further distinguish this exceptional sound system.
The cls 63 amg 4MATIC and the new cls 63 amg S-Model 4MATIC were launched in the U.S. market in August 2013, marking a new chapter in the legacy of Mercedes-Benz performance and luxury.
