LA Show 2010 Highlights: 2012 Mercedes CLS63 AMG

Mercedes-Benz is out to raise the stakes with its rapid new CLS63 AMG — the third model to receive its torque-laden twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8.

The aggressively styled four-door, pictured here officially for the first time having made its public premiere at today’s Los Angeles motor show, is scheduled to enter production next year. It will go on sale in the UK next May.

The new twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8, first revealed in March, has been conceived to replace AMG’s naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8.

The new engine will be offered in two states of tune. In standard guise, it kicks out 518bhp and 516lb ft of torque at 1750rpm. This gives the new CLS63 an additional 9bhp and 52lb ft over its predecessor.

However, a performance package will lift those outputs to 549bhp and 590lb ft at 2000rpm. The heady reserves are channelled to the rear through AMG’s seven-speed MCT gearbox.

Mercedes claims 0-62mph in 4.4sec in S (for Sport) and M (for Manual) modes — and 4.3sec with the optional performance package. Top speed remains limited to 155mph but an optional driver’s package can be ordered, which raises it to 186mph.

The CLS63 also gets a stop-start system that operates in tandem with brake energy recuperation, allowing AMG to decouple the alternator for stronger acceleration and lower consumption. Provisional figures put combined fuel consumption at 28.5mpg and CO2 emissions at 232g/km, which better the old model’s by an impressive 9.1mpg and 113g/km overall.

The new CLS63’s front track is 24mm wider and it rides 15mm lower than the standard CLS. The suspension has MacPherson struts with steel springs up front and a multi-link set-up with AirMatic air springs at the rear.

Compared with the standard car, the CLS63 gains a deep front bumper, a uniquely designed bonnet and wider front wings with ‘V8 Turbo’ badges. It also gets slightly wider sills, a subtle boot spoiler and a reprofiled rear bumper with a faux diffuser. The standard 19in wheels are shod with 255/35 (front) and 285/30 (rear) tyres.

Thanks to: Autocar