The next-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG four-door coupe will make its world debut at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, open to the public November 19-28 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Other new Mercedes-Benz models at the L.A. Auto Show will include the redesigned CL coupe and R-Class crossover lines as well as the all-new E-Class Cabriolet. In addition, an update about the launch of the fuel cell-powered Mercedes-Benz F-CELL car will take place during a press conference at the Mercedes-Benz exhibit.
High-Performance CLS63 AMG Four-Door Coupe
Center stage at the L.A. Show, the all-new 2012 CLS63 AMG will be powered by a new 5.5-liter biturbo V8 that produces more power and better fuel economy. With twin turbochargers, direct fuel injection and multi-spark ignition, the new AMG engine will produce 518 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. of torque. The new CLS63 AMG will also come with AMG’s award-winning MCT (for multi-clutch technology) transmission and innovative systems designed to reduce fuel consumption. For even more performance, the CLS63 AMG will be available with an optional Performance Package that includes increased power – 550 hp and 590 lb.-ft. of torque.
With fresh body lines that accentuate the distinctive shape of the swoopy four-door coupe, the new-generation CLS-Class represents the first major redesign of a car that established an entirely new market segment – the four-door coupe. Defining yet another market segment in an ever-expanding and highly competitive auto industry, the CLS was the first four-door vehicle to combine the emotional appeal and dynamic design of a coupe with the comfort and functionality of a four-door sedan.
The Fuel-Cell-Powered F-CELL
In addition, an update about the U.S. rollout of the fuel-cell-powered Mercedes-Benz F-CELL car will take place at the Mercedes-Benz exhibit during news media activities prior to the public opening of the show. Essentially an electric car that makes its own power on board, the Mercedes-Benz F-CELL boasts 54 miles per gallon (EPA combined city-highway equivalent fuel mileage) and a range of about 230 miles. Running on compressed hydrogen, and with water as the F-CELL’s only exhaust emission, the hydrogen and air react without combustion in the fuel cell, producing current to run the 136-horsepower electric motor. The F-CELL is also equipped with a 35-kilowatt lithium-ion battery that stores recovered braking energy, helps provide instant acceleration and ensures fast starting in very cold weather.
The hydrogen gas is stored in 10,150-psi tanks that can be refueled in only three minutes. Beginning in Southern California, the new F-CELL car is being offered through a lease program in markets with growing networks of hydrogen refueling stations.
Other New Mercedes-Benz Models
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL – the company’s premium two-door coupe – is also on display at the L.A. Auto Show. Restyled for 2011, its refinements include an aggressive front hood with two wide recesses and sleeker front fenders incorporating bi-xenon headlights, LED turn signals and daytime running lights. New rear styling features dual exhaust pipes that exit through a new bumper, back-up lights integrated in the trunk lid and LED taillights.
The 2011 CL coupe line is comprised of four distinctive models. The all-wheel-drive CL550 4MATIC is powered by a 4.6-liter version of the new biturbo V8 that produces 429 hp and 516 lb.-ft. of torque. Like the CLS63 AMG, the high-performance CL63 AMG model now comes with AMG’s new 5.5-liter biturbo V8 (536 hp, 590 lb.-ft.) and AMG’s MCT transmission. The V12- powered CL600 (510 hp, 612 lb.-ft.) and the CL65 AMG (621 hp, 738 lb.-ft.) round out the 2011 CL coupe line.
The latest addition to the successful Mercedes-Benz E-Class line, the two-door, four-seat Cabriolet will share the spotlight with the CLS63 AMG and the F-CELL car. The Cabriolet features a classic fabric soft top that can be opened or closed in 20 seconds, even at speeds up to 25 mph. The two-door Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet family is available with the choice of a V6 or V8 engine. The E350 uses the latest four-valve-per-cylinder V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque, while the E550 model is powered by a 32-valve 5.5- liter V8 delivering 382 hp and 391 lb.-ft. of torque.
The 2011 R-Class crossover features a redesigned front hood and bolder grille as well as new fenders and headlights, sleeker side mirrors and LED taillights. A new rear bumper includes an integrated reflector, dual exhaust outlets and a black air diffuser. The 2011 interior reveals a 3D instrument cluster and “saddle” head restraints for the 2nd and 3rd row seats as well as new wood trim and seat stitching throughout.
