AMG adds a new family member - The CLS

On the eve of the LA Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz has taken the wraps off the 2012 CLS63 AMG, the bi-turbo V8 version of the second generation original four door coupe.


AMG's mighty 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 is finding a home in nearly every new Mercedes product. Fitted to the CLS63, the blown mill is good for 518 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque in standard form. Customers can opt for the AMG Performance Package which will tune up the boost from 14.5 to 18.8 psi, resulting in a rise in output to 550 hp and 590 lb-ft of twist.

Equipped with AMG's seven-gear "Speedshift" MCT automatic tranny, the CLS63 takes an estimated 4.4 seconds for the century sprint in standard guise and 4.3 seconds with the AMG package. Top speed also rises from 155 to 186 mph with the performance upgrade.

In addition to the reworked engine and transmission, the front axle has been widened by nearly an inch. AMG also fitted its independent adaptive suspension with electronic damping complete with three-stage traction control system. The footwear for the CLS63 AMG comes in the form of 19 inch five-spoke wheels wrapped in 255/35 tires in front and 285/30 at the back. The brake discs are 14.2-inch in size, drilled and ventilated.

A special "Launch Edition" will be available when the CLS63 goes on sale this coming summer. It has a matte grey exterior while the interior has a mix of carbon fiber and piano black interior trim. It also comes with alcantara headliner and AMG sports seats wrapped in leather.