Mercedes’ performance arm, AMG, is already ramping up development of the hot version of the CLS — as these spy pictures of the test hack lapping the Nürburgring prove.
The CLS63 AMG will be powered by the same twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 motor as the recently launched CL63 AMG.
See the spy pics of the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG
It has 536bhp and 590lb ft on tap in standard trim, and 563bhp with an optional performance package. Those figures mean that the new car should trim a tenth or two from the outgoing CLS63’s 0-62mph time of 4.7sec.
Opting for the performance package will also remove the 155mph speed limiter, freeing up the CLS63 to reach more than 180mph.
Read the full story on the new Mercedes CLS, including official pics
However, even the ultra-rapid CLS is likely to get stop-start and improved brake energy recuperation as Mercedes tries to lower the average emissions across its range.
In the CL63, the twin-turbo V8 emits over 100g/km less CO2 than the old normally aspirated powerplant.
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Re: Merc CLS63 AMG - first pics
Antilag systems are good, but as you say they are noisy. Perhaps a few years down the road they will have an application that suits luxury road car architecture - for a large Mercedes saloon mechanical refinement is key. I think adding hybrid tech etc to run the antilag/spool the turbo however adds weight and complexity when in reality the engine is plenty powerful enough to function in its peer group. There is also a bit a lag in the engine tech, this engine was being developed a couple of years back presumably to be ready for the application in the revised S/CL 63.
Re: Merc CLS63 AMG - first pics
The reason for the big capacity beachie is turbo lag. Small engines with big turbos always suffer lag and also suffer "obviously" being a turbo engine. Larger capacity engines that are "lightly" turbocharged feel like a larger capacity engine which is naturally progressive. The BMW 3 litre is a good example, more power can easily be extracted from that configuration but as it stands, it feels like a larger capacity engine with a nice linear delivery.
From reviews of the new S63 AMG with this engine, it's an absolute cracker with wonderful delivery and a great sound. Also keep in mind there is a hierarchy at AMG, this engine already stands to usurp the biturbo V12 (liable to get a once-over at some point soon I understand).
Re: Merc CLS63 AMG - first pics