The Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG has long been celebrated for its breathtaking blend of coupe aesthetics and sedan practicality, but for those seeking the ultimate in performance, the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG S-Model emerges as the definitive choice. This model isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a statement of automotive excellence, pushing the boundaries of power, handling, and luxury within the CLS lineage. For the discerning driver who demands nothing less than the best, the S-Model delivers an unparalleled driving experience.
Power and Performance Redefined: The AMG 5.5-Liter V8 Biturbo Engine
At the heart of the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG S-Model lies the formidable AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine (M157). This powerplant is not merely powerful; it’s a marvel of engineering efficiency, delivering a staggering 577 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque. This enhanced output represents a significant leap over the standard CLS 63 AMG and even surpasses the previous Performance Package, ensuring that the S-Model sits at the apex of its class in terms of raw power.
What sets this engine apart is its remarkable balance. It’s not just about brute force; the M157 is engineered for efficiency, achieving impressive fuel economy figures for its segment without compromising on exhilarating performance. This combination of high power and responsible fuel consumption remains a benchmark in the high-performance vehicle market. The enhancements in the S-Model are achieved through refined engine electronics and increased turbo boost pressure, demonstrating AMG’s commitment to continuous improvement and pushing the limits of engine technology.
AMG 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive: Superior Handling and Control
To effectively harness the immense power of the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG S-Model, Mercedes-AMG equipped it with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. This system is specifically tuned for sporty driving, distributing engine torque with a rear-biased 33:67 split between the front and rear axles. This configuration ensures optimal traction during acceleration while maintaining the engaging driving dynamics that enthusiasts crave.
The AMG 4MATIC system elevates the handling of the CLS 63 AMG S-Model to new heights, providing drivers with a level of control and confidence previously unseen in this vehicle segment. By minimizing wheel slip and maximizing grip, the all-wheel-drive system allows for quicker acceleration, especially in challenging conditions, and enhances stability during cornering. This technology, previously featured in successful AMG SUVs like the ML63 AMG and GL63 AMG, now finds its place in the CLA, E-Class, and CLS-Class lines, showcasing Mercedes-AMG’s dedication to performance across its model range.
S-Model Performance Prowess: Acceleration and Top Speed
The Mercedes CLS 63 AMG S-Model delivers breathtaking acceleration figures, launching from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.6 seconds. This remarkable speed firmly positions the S-Model at the forefront of its competitive landscape. Beyond sheer acceleration, the S-Model boasts an electronically limited top speed of 186 mph, a testament to its high-performance capabilities and engineering prowess.
This exceptional performance is not solely attributed to the increased horsepower; the performance-oriented all-wheel drive system with its specialized power distribution plays a crucial role in achieving such impressive numbers. The 33:67 front-rear power split ensures ideal traction, minimizing wheel spin and maximizing forward momentum. Whether on the open highway or a closed track, the CLS 63 AMG S-Model is engineered to deliver exhilarating speed and dynamic performance.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed Sports Transmission: Precision Gear Changes
Complementing the powerful engine and advanced all-wheel drive system of the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG S-Model is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed sports transmission. This transmission is engineered for rapid and precise gear changes, offering drivers a truly engaging and responsive driving experience. It features four distinct drive programs – “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus), and “M” (Manual) – allowing for a customizable driving experience tailored to different conditions and preferences.
In “C” mode, the transmission prioritizes smooth and comfortable gearshifts, activating the ECO start/stop feature to enhance fuel efficiency. For more spirited driving, “S,” “S+,” and “M” modes sharpen the transmission’s responses, delivering quicker gear changes and deactivating the ECO start/stop function. These modes also feature momentary suppression of ignition and injection during full-throttle upshifts, resulting in faster gearshifts accompanied by an exhilarating sound. Standard features like automatic rev-matching during downshifts and RACE START further underscore the transmission’s performance-oriented design.
Chassis and Handling: Advanced Suspension and Steering
The Mercedes CLS 63 AMG S-Model is equipped with the AMG Adaptive Sports Suspension, featuring an electronically controlled damping system. This advanced suspension technology allows drivers to select between “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” modes, instantly adjusting the suspension’s stiffness to suit their driving style and road conditions. The front suspension utilizes a steel-spring system, while the rear axle features a load-leveling air suspension system, ensuring a balance of comfort and performance.
Further enhancing handling, the S-Model’s three-link front suspension has been optimized with newly developed aluminum control arms, improving grip, agility, and steering neutrality during cornering. Performance-oriented elastokinematics, exclusive to the S-Model, provide even more neutral handling, enhanced feedback, and superior wheel grip at the limits of performance. A wider front track and increased negative camber on all wheels further contribute to enhanced cornering capabilities and road feel. The AMG electromechanical speed-sensitive steering complements the chassis setup, providing agile handling with a variable power assist that adapts to the selected suspension mode.
Braking and Wheels: High-Performance Stopping Power
Ensuring confident stopping power, the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG S-Model comes standard with a high-performance AMG braking system. This system features 14.2-inch ventilated and perforated brake discs on both front and rear axles. The front discs incorporate AMG’s compound disc technology, derived from motorsport, to withstand extreme heat and ensure consistent braking performance. Calipers with a grey finish and white AMG lettering, featuring six pistons at the front and four at the rear, provide rapid, fade-resistant braking and short stopping distances on the standard CLS 63 AMG.
For the ultimate in braking performance, the S-Model offers an optional AMG ceramic composite brake system. Distinguished by even larger 15.8-inch brake discs and bronze metallic calipers with “AMG Carbon Ceramic” logos, this system provides exceptional heat resistance and extended service life. The ceramic system is also approximately 40 percent lighter than the standard brakes, reducing unsprung mass and further enhancing handling, agility, and ride comfort. The Mercedes CLS 63 AMG S-Model rides on exclusive 10-spoke light-alloy wheels painted matte titanium gray with a high-sheen rim flange, while the standard CLS 63 AMG features triple five-spoke light-alloy wheels.
Exclusive S-Model Design and Interior: Distinctive Features
The Mercedes CLS 63 AMG S-Model distinguishes itself through subtle yet significant design cues. Red brake calipers and an “S” badge in contrasting black on the trunk lid immediately identify the higher-performance variant. Inside, the S-Model features a luxurious black premium nappa leather interior with silver seat belts and contrasting gray stitching on the AMG sports seats, door panels, armrests, steering wheel, and center console.
The AMG Performance steering wheel, wrapped in black premium leather with Alcantara® grip areas, and flattened at the top and bottom, enhances the sporty feel. Unique to the S-Model, the front head restraints of the AMG sports seats are embossed with the AMG crest. The AMG instrument cluster features an “S AMG” logo on the speedometer and red accents on the dials, while illuminated AMG door sill panels with white backlighting complete the exclusive appointments. For audiophiles, the optional Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system provides an unparalleled audio experience, further solidifying the S-Model’s status as a pinnacle of luxury and performance.
Conclusion
The Mercedes CLS 63 AMG S-Model stands as a testament to AMG’s relentless pursuit of performance and luxury. With its potent 577 horsepower engine, advanced AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and exclusive S-Model enhancements, it delivers an unrivaled driving experience. From its breathtaking acceleration to its precision handling and luxurious appointments, the CLS 63 AMG S-Model is the definitive choice for those seeking the ultimate expression of the Mercedes-Benz CLS lineage. It’s not just a car; it’s a statement of automotive excellence, representing the pinnacle of performance and refinement in its class.
