2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS First Details Revealed

In the new generation of the CLS-Class, Mercedes-Benz is using the new technology of MULTIBEAM LED headlamps for the first time

In the new generation of the CLS-Class, Mercedes-Benz is using the new technology of MULTIBEAM LED headlamps for the first time. High-resolution precision LED modules, each with 24 individually controlled high-performance LEDs, automatically illuminate the road with a hitherto unsurpassed, precision-controlled distribution of exceptionally bright light – without dazzling other road users. A camera positioned behind the windscreen delivers the information with which four control units the ideal light pattern 100 times per second. The anticipatory camera-based active light function on bends and the new navigation-based light function for roundabouts are also unique. The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class already became an icon of lighting technology back in 2010, incorporating dynamic all-LED high-performance headlamps featuring adaptive light functions as a world first in a production automobile.

CLS Multibeam Headlights

CLS Multibeam LED Headlights

With the new MULTIBEAM LED headlamps Mercedes-Benz opens a new chapter in lighting design. They make use of the many advantages of LEDs in an innovative way and combine them with state-of-the-art lighting and control technologies. Consequently they offer the driver significantly more benefits in daily driving than all other headlamp systems. MULTIBEAM LED headlamps expand the Intelligent Light System’s previous functionality (Adaptive Highbeam Assist, country mode, motorway mode, fog lamps, active light function, cornering light function, LED daytime driving lamps) with a number of outstanding, innovative lighting features:

  • dazzle-free high-resolution high beams, which react faster and more precisely
  • anticipatory camera-based active light function
  • navigation-based roundabout light function

“The first LED headlamps with all the adaptive functions of the Intelligent Light System have been available to our customers since 2010 in the CLS”, says Prof Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “With MULTIBEAM LED technology the headlamps now are able to react even more quickly, more precisely and individually to changing traffic conditions. On top of this, there are expanded functions of which a driver will become directly aware, such as anticipatory camera-based curve recognition with the active light function. With such features Mercedes-Benz once again is demonstrating its role as an innovation leader in the automobile industry.”

Uncompromising lighting technology

The headlamps of the new generation of the CLS are all-LED headlamps and combine the merits of state-of-the-art lighting technologies to form the MULTIBEAM LED technology. They are able to automatically and optimally adjust the light distribution more precisely than ever before to virtually any road and traffic conditions, always ensuring extensive and bright illumination of the road and its edges without dazzling other drivers. They therefore offer a new level of safety which benefits other road users too.

See far, never dazzle

The crucial element is the new dazzle-free main beam. The purposefully further advanced camera-based Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus system from the S-, E- and C-Class creates the necessary prerequisites. Using the camera positioned behind the front windscreen it detects oncoming traffic or vehicles in front, and mechanically masks them out in the light cone of the main beam so that the drivers are not dazzled. Consequently, the high-beam headlamps can be left on at all times, to use their full range without irritating or even endangering other road users.

The new MULTIBEAM LED headlamps go an important step further. They use a very fast responding high-resolution precision LED light module as a light source, which features 24 individual high-performance LED chips. Each can be controlled electronically and independently of the others. This allows the light distribution from the right and left headlamps to be controlled separately and adapted highly dynamically to the traffic conditions with a high level of precision. This makes it illuminate individual areas of the road in highly targeted fashion. Combining the light source with the proven mechanical LED technology, means the headlamp control technology not only increases the precision of today’s light sources and sets a gap with a minimal width for the main beam, but it also generates a new dimension in light output in partial high-beam operation. Compared with the systems on the market today, the MULTIBEAM LED headlamps have up to 2.5 times the partial high-beam light output. This increase is made possible by the sophisticated control electronics in conjunction with the new matrix light source of the precision LED module.

A camera on the windscreen supplies the system with the information it needs about the constantly changing traffic situation and is also used by other assistance functions. Four control units per vehicle calculate the ideal light pattern 100 times per second and activate all 24 high-performance LEDs in lamp module individually.

The additional light output of the technology in the MULTIBEAM LED headlamps is not only used to increase the performance in partial high-beam operation, but also for high-beam operation. Even though the latter is activated significantly less due to traffic density, the range of the high beams was increased by about 20% to about 485 m.

The active light function illuminates bends before they are entered

In addition to the powerful high-resolution precision main-beam module, each MULTIBEAM LED headlamp contains a further module for the low-beam headlamp which is equipped with four LEDs. It can be swivelled outward additionally by as much as twelve degrees to provide an anticipatory camera-based active light function – a possibility never realised before. Camera-based, the module swivels toward the bend before the driver has even turned the wheel, thus providing optimum illumination of the bend early on. According to the situation it also swivels back to the straight-ahead position before the bend ends. This allows the driver to identify dangers earlier when entering and exiting bends. The anticipatory control allows an additional range of between 30 and 60 m depending on the traffic situation.

No dark zone on roundabouts

The new and to date unique light function for roundabouts is navigation-based. It activates the cornering light function to the left and right before entering the roundabout to ensure maximum visibility at an early stage.

Advantage: LED

The LED technology offers many advantages: the light from the very bright LED headlamps is closer to daylight and therefore perfectly attuned to the human eye. Studies have shown that the closer the colour of artificial light is to daylight, the less the strain on the eyes. With a colour temperature of 5500 kelvin, LED light is closer to daylight (6500 K) than xenon light (4200 K). The powerful single-chip LED diodes of the MULTIBEAM LED headlamps and their high lumen/watt output also contribute increased efficiency and with an average useful life of about 10,000 hours will also last five times longer than a xenon lamp.

2010 in the CLS: a breakthrough in LED technology

2010 saw a breakthrough in LED technology. With the launch of the CLS, Mercedes-Benz became the first automotive manufacturer to offer a production model featuring dynamic all-LED high-performance headlamps incorporating all the adaptive light functions of xenon systems: country mode, motorway mode, fog light, active light function and cornering light function. The lighting specialists at Mercedes-Benz were also able to combine this LED technology with the innovative Adaptive Highbeam Assist system for the first time, leading to a completely new level of safety at night.

E-Class: LED low-beam headlamps as standard

In the spring of 2013 the new E-Class set standards in terms of light features: as standard it boasts both low-beam headlamps and daytime driving lamps which make use of LED technology. All in all, the high-efficiency low beams of both headlamps together consume just 34 watts and are thus much more efficient than halogen (120 watts) and xenon lamps (84 watts, all figures per vehicle). This means that it is possible to save up to 0.05 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, or 2.1 grams of CO2 per kilometre, compared with a vehicle with halogen low-beam headlamps. LED high-performance headlamps are available as an option for the first time in this class.

S-Class: spelling the end for conventional light bulbs

The next step followed with the new S-Class. Mercedes-Benz continued to expand its pioneering role in the automotive lighting sector: for the first time the new S-Class is fitted exclusively with LED headlamps and no longer uses conventional light bulbs – almost 500 LEDs are now responsible for illuminating the road, the vehicle, the interior and the luggage compartment. New, powerful single-chip LEDs and a newly developed projection module in the headlamp, where light rays are diverted, reflected and projected outwards, make a significant contribution to the increased efficiency.

New optional functions expand the performance spectrum of the LED headlamps of the S-Class and now also of the E- and C-Class. Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus allows the high-beam headlamps to be kept on permanently while driving by masking out any other road users detected in the beams’ cone of light. If the camera-based system detects an oncoming vehicle or a vehicle in front, a mechanism in the headlamp module masks the portion of the LED headlamp’s cone of light where there are other vehicles, to prevent their drivers from being dazzled. Consequently, the driver can leave the high-beam headlamps on at all times and use their full range without irritating or even endangering other road users. There is no need to switch them on and off manually, resulting in a significant increase in the overall driving time with high beam. Possible glare caused by increased use of the high beams and highly reflective signs at the side of the road are also detected and prevented by dimming the headlamps accordingly.

Considerate to others: tail lights with automatic intensity control

Mercedes-Benz vehicles are considerate to other road users also thanks to the so-called multi-level functionality of the tail lamps, with which another world first was achieved in the E-Class and now also in the S- and C-Class. With this, the brake lights and indicators are operated with varying light intensity, depending on the driving situation and ambient lighting (day/night).

If the Mercedes driver presses the brake pedal while stopped at traffic lights at night, for instance, the brightness of the brake lights will be automatically dimmed to avoid dazzling anyone behind. The light distribution is broadened to ensure the lights do not become too dim and that they continue to fulfil all legal requirements, of course.

A friendly greeting: “welcome home” function

One charming feature, used for the first time in the C-Class, is that the new MULTIBEAM LED headlamps of the CLS Coupé and CLS Shooting Brake in addition to providing daytime driving lamps, side lights and turn indicators via fibre-optic cable, also welcome the driver by casting a pleasant blue light when the vehicle is unlocked.

2015 Mercedes CLS Spied As Never Before

This is the first time we've seen the 2015 Mercedes CLS nearly undisguised and ready for production.

We’ve seen camouflaged photos of the upcoming CLS and even videos, but this is the first time we’ve seen the 2015 Mercedes CLS nearly undisguised and ready for production.

The facelifted CLS has been fitted with aggressive bumpers, which could mean that this particular prototype is wearing an AMG package. There is also a revised grille and modified headlights and taillights on the new CLS.

Spy photos of the interior show a similar layout to the current CLS but with a new steering wheel with metallic accents. The 2015 model will also feature a freestanding COMAND display that is significantly larger than its predecessor.

Under the hood, engine options will carryover from the current CLS with a range of petrol and diesel options.

Via: WCF

Mercedes CLS Spied Showing Off Facelift

2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS spied showing off new front fascia including new bumper, headlights and grille

Although not scheduled for an official debut until 2014, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS  has been spied showing off its subtle facelift.  The updated CLS  will feature minor design changes, with the main tweaks focused on a new bumper, grille and headlamps.  The revised CLS – not scheduled to hit dealerships until 2015 – will likely be the first U.S. model to be loaded with the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission.

 

Mercedes CLS Photo Gallery

The world's first 4-door coupe, the Mercedes CLS is a masterpiece of engineering

The Mercedes CLS is sleek and stylish like all Mercedes-Benz coupes but it is the first coupe in the world to offer four doors.  The Mercedes CLS offers it’s passengers frameless windows with an arched roofline for an appealing style with an inviting and comfortable ride.  View the photo gallery below to see the latest version of the four-door Mercedes-Benz CLS Coupe.

Carlsson CK63 RSR based on the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG

The Carlsson CK63 RSR can reach a top speed of 211 mph in just 11.6 seconds and sprinting 0-62 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds

The Carlsson CK63 RSR based on the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG, is scheduled to make its world premier at the 83rd Geneva Motor Show this March. Under the hood of the CK63 RSR is a V8 Bi-Turbo engine that has been tweaked to output 700 HP at 5,700 rpm propelling the CLS AMG to a top speed of 211 mph in just 11.6 seconds and sprinting 0-62 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds.

Read on for the complete press release or click here to skip directly to the Carlsson CK63 RSR Photo Gallery.

Power, torque and sound.

These are the watchwords for this new Carlsson performance flagship, whose powerful Bi-turbo V8 motor clearly underlines the skill of the engineers at Gut Wiesenhof.

Months of careful development and testing have resulted in the headline numbers of 700hp (515 kW) at 5,700rpm (specific output 128.2 hp/L), with 1,000 Nm of torque between 2,000 and 4,500rpm. Peak torque is electronically limited to 1,000Nm to preserve the gearbox and drivetrain. The significant increase in output requires a more efficient intercooler system to lower charge air temperatures, as well as additional water and oil coolers to mitigate the increased thermal load. The seven-speed transmission is fitted with an additional, thermostatically-controlled oil cooler.

Against the stopwatch, the Carlsson CK63 RSR reaches 100km/h from rest in just 3.9 seconds, passing 200km/h in 11.6 seconds on its way to a calculated top speed of 340 km/h.

The CK63 RSR uses a specially developed high performance stainless steel sports exhaust incorporating 200-cell metal catalytic converters to further reduce back-pressure. This exhaust system also incorporates an electronically controlled sound valve, giving the driver the choice of a near standard sound level for civilized progress through urban areas, or a full-on, snarling muscle car V8 experience at the touch of a button.

Master of Road and Track

The CK63 RSR uses Carlsson’s bespoke height adjustable coil-overs with 10-position bounce and rebound adjustment to cover road or track use. The car is normally set 30mm lower than standard for road use, and the front track has been widened by 25mm with spacers for better turn-in and stability in the bends.

Apart from giving a car its first glance eye appeal, alloy wheels also contribute to lower unsprung weight. The elegant and sporty one-piece Carlsson 1/10 alloy wheels come in a choice of 19 or 20-inch diameters to best cope with the road surfaces across different markets.

The CK63 RSR is fast and heavy, so Carlsson use 405mm diameter vented discs clamped by six-pot calipers fitted with their heavy-duty brake pads in front. The rear brakes are standard AMG, with uprated pads. Steel-braided hoses are used all round, while front brake cooling is boosted by a ram-air duct system built into the Carlsson front bumper.

The dramatic styling of this four-door Coupé is further accentuated with the Carlsson RS carbon-fibre front spoiler lip, black stainless steel mesh inserts in the intake grilles, brake cooling intakes, and rear carbon valance insert. A new feature over the RS version is the electrically retractable rear spoiler, which extends into the airflow automatically at 100km/h, with manual activation possible at any speed. Its size and angle of attack have been wind tunnel tested to reduce lift and drag in combination with the underbody rear diffuser.

Business Class Travel

The handcrafted Carlsson SIGNATURE LINE interior of the CK63 RSR is assembled from the finest leather, Alcantara, carbon-fibre and natural wood, and exemplifies the uncompromising quality of Carlsson’s in-house trim department.

This rich interior trim is a combination of Brown Alcantara and Mocha Brown Carlsson NAPPA EXCLUSIVE leather. The manufacturing processes used contribute to the look and feel of these materials. For instance, while the 1.0 to 1.4mm thick drum-pigmented leather offers the feel of fine glove leather glove, it is also particularly wear resistant.

A unique tanning process preserves the pores of the hides. This allows the material to breathe, preventing the excessive heat build-up that makes occupants uncomfortable.

Finishing touches come in the form of Carlsson interior floor mats, polished aluminium sill plates with blue illuminated Carlsson logo, and aluminium door locking pins. The three-year Carlsson warranty covers all the Carlsson components up to 100,000 kilometers.

VEHICLE DIMENSIONS:

  • Length: 4,996 mm
  • Width: 1,881 mm
  • Height : 1,366 mm
  • Unladen weight: 1,969 kg
  • Fuel tank capacity/reserve: 66.0 L / 14.0 L

ENGINE:

  • Water-cooled, 90-degree V8 engine with two turbochargers, DOHC, 48-valves,
  • Displacement: 5,461cc, bore x stroke 98.0 x 90.5 mm
  • Compression ratio: 10.0: 1
  • Power: 700 hp / 515 kW at 5,700 rpm
  • Torque: 1,000 Nm between 2000 and 4,500 rpm (electronically limited)
  • CO2 emissions: 276 g / km
  • Fuel: Super Plus (98 Roz)
  • Engine oil: Fuchs
  • TRANSMISSION:
  • Rear-wheel drive with differential lock and ESP
  • Seven-speed Speedshift MCT transmission

Gear ratios:

  • 1st: 4.38
  • 2nd: 2.86
  • 3rd: 1.92
  • 4th: 1.37
  • 5th: 1.00
  • 6th: 0.82
  • 7th: 0.73
  • Reverse 1: 3.42
  • Reverse 2: 2.23
  • Limited slip differential with 40 percent locking action.
  • Axle ratio: 2.65: 1

CHASSIS:

Independent suspension with height-adjustable Carlsson coil-overs.

Front axle: MacPherson strut, lower wishbone, height-adjustable coil-over suspension with 10-position adjustable bounce and rebound control, anti-roll bar.

Rear axle: Multi-link control arms, height-adjustable coil-over suspension with 10-position adjustable bounce and rebound control, anti-roll bar.

WHEELS:

  • Carlsson 1/10 alloy wheels with Dunlop Sport MAXX tyres.
  • Front: 9.5J x 20-inch with 255/30ZR20 tyres.
  • Rear: 10.5J x 20-inch with 305/25ZR20 tyres.

BRAKES:

  • Carlsson high performance brake kit
  • Front: six-piston fixed calipers with 405 x 36 mm steel vented discs
  • Rear: four-piston fixed calipers with 360 x 28 mm steel vented discs


Braking distance:

  • Cold, from 100 km/h 40.0 m
  • Hot, from 100 km/h 35.3 m
  • Response delay: Up to 13.3 m/s²

Performance:

  • 0-100 km/h: 3.9 s
  • 0-200 km/h: 11.6 s
  • V/max: Approx. 340 km/h

Fuel consumption:

  • Average: 14.3L/100 km

2014 Mercedes CLS 63 AMG S-Model Variant Announced

The market launch of the CLS 63 AMG with rear-wheel drive will be in April 2013, the all-wheel-drive and S-Model in June

In addition to the new Mercedes E63 AMG, Mercedes has also announced their 2014 CLS63 AMG that offers the same top of the range engines as the E-Class model. The S-Model variant of the CLS 63 AMG not only boasts the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all‑wheel drive but also comes with the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine generating a maximum output of 430 kW (585 hp) and up to 800 Nm of torque. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine continues to be the absolute pinnacle of efficiency: the combination of high performance and low fuel consumption remains unrivalled by any other competitor in the segment worldwide. The rear-wheel-drive variant rated at 410 kW (557 hp) and generating 720 Nm of torque is optionally available with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

Mercedes-AMG is also premiering high-performance passenger car models with an all-wheel-drive system geared to driving dynamics. This offers customers even greater scope for individuality and an even broader choice of models. Alongside the successful SUVs – ML 63 AMG, GL 63 AMG, G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG – two passenger car model ranges comprising up to eight unique models with all-wheel drive are now available from Mercedes-AMG in the guise of the E 63 AMG and the CLS 63 AMG. Additional models featuring performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, such as the A 45 AMG and the CLA 45 AMG, will follow this year.

“The S-Models in particular represent the most attractive proposition in the segment,” notes Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “With its superlative power and torque ratings and the new performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the CLS 63 AMG is without parallel in its Coupé and Shooting Brake variants. Our AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine remains the most efficient series production V8 engine in the world. The new, customised model variants provide greater scope than ever for individual solutions.”

The world premiere of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake took place at the “Night of the Stars” at the Formula 1 German Grand Prix in July 2012. This unique high-performance vehicle from AMG is a fascinating new embodiment of an innovative vehicle concept. The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake combines performance with style and utility value as a highly appealing alternative for design-oriented automobile enthusiasts. In essence it represents an unprecedented embodiment of a sports car with five seats and a large tailgate.

Overview of the new models for the German market:

CLS 63 AMG Coupé/ Shooting Brake CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC Coupé/ Shooting Brake CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC S-Model Coupé/ Shooting Brake
Displacement 5461 cc 5461 cc 5461 cc
Output 410 kW (557 hp) at 5500 rpm 410 kW (557 hp) at 5500 rpm 430 kW (585 hp) at 5500 rpm
Max. torque 720 Nm at 1750-5250 rpm 720 Nm at 1750-5250 rpm 800 Nm at 1750-5000 rpm
Fuel consumption NEDC combined 9.9 (10.1) l/100 km 10.4 (10.6) l/100 km 10.4 (10.6) l/100 km
CO2 emissions 231 (235) g/km 243 (248) g/km 243 (248) g/km
Efficiency class (in Germany) F F F
Acceleration 0-100 km/h 4.2 (4.3) s 3.7 (3.8) s 3.6 (3.7) s
Top speed 250 km/h* 250 km/h* 250 km/h*

* electronically limited; values for CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake in brackets

Acceleration from a standing start to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds clearly places the CLS 63 AMG S-Model in pole position in the competitive line-up. In addition to the increase in output, this special edge for the S-Model is also attributable in no small part to the performance-oriented all-wheel drive with a power distribution ratio of 33 to 67 percent (front/rear axle). Perfect traction during acceleration effectively avoids slip-induced losses. The top speed stands at 250 km/h (electronically limited).

On the new S-Model the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine generates a maximum output of 430 kW (585 hp) and maximum torque of 800 Nm – representing an increase of 20 kW (28 hp) over the AMG Performance package which was previously available as an option for the Coupé. This enhanced performance and power results from adaptation of the engine application, an increase in peak pressure and a rise in the charge pressure from 0.9 to 1.0 bar. At 410 kW (557 hp) and 720 Nm, the basic model also boasts an increase of 24 kW (32 hp) and 20 Nm over its predecessor.

Despite added power and enhanced performance, all models offer high efficiency, low fuel consumption and low exhaust emissions. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine remains the most efficient series production V8 engine around – with substantially more cubic capacity than its direct competitors. The CLS 63 AMG rated at 410 kW (557 hp) with rear-wheel drive runs on 9.9 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres in accordance with NEDC (231 grams of CO2). The variant with an output of 410 kW and performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive and the S-Model rated at 430 kW (585 hp) with all-wheel drive display only marginally higher fuel consumption, at 10.4 to 10.6 litres per 100 km (243 grams to 248 grams of CO2). As an additional boon, following the implementation of internal engine measures all CLS 63 AMGs meet the requirements of the stringent Euro 6 emissions standard which will not enter into force until 2015.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission for personal set-up

Maximum individuality and customised dynamics – these are the special strengths of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. The four modes – “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) and “M” (Manual) – offer the driver a personal set-up. In “C” mode, the ECO start/stop function is active and switches off the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is at a standstill. In addition, the transmission characteristics are tangibly soft, with smooth and early gear changes. Second gear is generally used as the starting gear in this mode.

The engine and transmission are far more agile in “S”, “S+” and “M” mode; in addition, the ECO start/stop function is deactivated. Partial suppression of the cylinders proves perfect for an emphatic driving style: briefly and precisely interrupting ignition and injection under full load leads to even faster gearshifts with a more emotional sound than before. An automatic double-declutching function for downshifting and the RACE START function are also included as standard with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission.

Performance-oriented all-wheel drive for the ultimate in dynamism

The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive distributes the engine torque at a ratio of 33 to 67 percent (front/rear axle). The rear-biased power distribution provides for signature AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment. The 3-stage ESP® has been tailored specifically to the permanent all-wheel drive system. In “SPORT Handling” mode, the Torque Vectoring Brake performs selective braking intervention on individual wheels in the interests of high agility, thereby avoiding understeering when turning and cornering. In bends, specific brief braking of the inner rear wheel results in defined cornering of the vehicle.

The AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive enhances driving safety and grip on wet or wintry road surfaces. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-disk clutch with a locking effect of 50 Nm which exploits the frictional connection potential of all four wheels to the full on snow and ice in particular.

The technical basis for the all-wheel drive system is provided by a transfer case for the additional power take-off to the driven rear axle. This transfer case is integrated compactly into the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and requires virtually no additional installation space. The torque is transmitted from the power take-off via a propeller shaft to the front axle. Power transmission to the front-left drive shaft is effected via an intermediate shaft which passes through an encapsulated shaft duct in the engine oil pan. The compact and weight-optimised design results in a comparatively low level of additional weight for the all-wheel-drive system of only 70 kilograms.

CLS 63 AMG S-Model with rear-axle differential lock

The CLS 63 AMG S-Model sees Mercedes-AMG going one step further. True to the “Driving Performance” philosophy, a differential lock is fitted on the rear axle. This high-tech package results in a further increase in traction, ultimately leading to even greater driving dynamics and enhanced driving enjoyment, especially on the race track.

All CLS 63 AMG models feature the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically controlled damping system. The front axle employs a steel-spring suspension system, while the rear axle is fitted with a fully load-bearing air suspension system. Pressing the button marked with a shock absorber in the AMG DRIVE UNIT is sufficient to switch the electronics from “Comfort” to “Sport” or “Sport plus”. The three-link front suspension has undergone further optimisation for the S-Model and the CLS 63 AMG with all-wheel drive. In conjunction with the newly developed axle components produced in aluminium, these optimisation measures result in markedly enhanced grip and agility combined with a high level of neutrality during fast cornering. The markedly more performance-oriented elastokinematics are exclusive to the S-Model, and offer the driver maximum neutrality and even better feedback and grip at the critical limits. With rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, the CLS 63 AMG’s 24 millimetre wider track at the front offers substantially greater stability at high cornering speeds and improved road feel. Increased negative camber on both axles additionally boosts lateral dynamics.

Electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive steering complements the vehicle’s set-up to perfection, the direct steering ratio of 14 : 1 providing for extremely agile handling in bends in conjunction with the variable servo assistance geared to the given suspension mode. The CLS 63 AMG is fitted as standard with triple-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey and featuring a high-sheen finish. Tyres in size 255/35 R 19 are fitted to 9.0 x 19 wheels at the front, while the 10 x 19 rear wheels have 285/30 R 19 tyres. Only the high-performance S-Model features exclusive 10-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in matt titanium grey with a high-sheen rim flange.

Optional AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system

The CLS 63 AMG is equipped with an AMG high-performance braking system befitting its status as an AMG automobile. The front and rear axles sport ventilated and perforated brake disks in ample 360 millimetre format. The disks which are subject to particularly high levels of stress and strain on the front axle feature the composite braking technology which has been tried and tested in the field of motor sport. Callipers in a silver painted finish with white AMG lettering and incorporating six pistons (front) and four pistons (rear) provide for spontaneous, fading-resistant deceleration and the shortest stopping distances.

An AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system is exclusively available for the S-Model as an optional feature – recognisable by the even larger 402 millimetre brake disks and the “AMG Carbon Ceramic” logo on callipers sporting a special paint finish. This ceramic system is around 40 percent lighter, providing for reduced unsprung masses and enhanced driving dynamics, agility and ride comfort. The superior hardness of the ceramic brake disks leads to a longer service life and greater resistance to extreme stress and heat.

S-Model with subtly different design features

In terms of exterior design, the CLS 63 AMG S-Model is differentiated from the other models by brake callipers in a red painted finish and the AMG logo on the trunk lid sporting an “S” in contrasting black. When the customer so desires, the interior of the S-Model features grey contrasting stitching on the AMG sports seats, the door centre panels, the door armrests and the centre console. Silver seat belts are also on board in conjunction with a black interior. The rim of the AMG Performance steering wheel in black nappa leather is flattened at the top and bottom and boasts grip areas in Alcantara® and grey contrasting stitching. The front head restraints of the AMG sports seats incorporate exclusive embossed AMG emblems. The AMG instrument cluster in a new design features an “S AMG” logo on the 320 km/h speedometer and red applications. AMG door sill panels illuminated in white round off the exclusive range of equipment and appointments.

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system

A very special highlight among the optional equipment and appointments for all CLS variants is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, developed by Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes‑ AMG together with renowned Danish audio specialist Bang & Olufsen. The sound system also offers playback in Dolby Digital 5.1 quality and enables an exclusive audio experience of the very highest standard. This performance is made possible by a 1200 W amplifier and 14 high-end loudspeakers with neodymium driver in conjunction with precision distribution of the audio signals by the sound processor. This integrated digital sound processor (DSP) enables the driver to select a special B&O sound menu via COMAND. Front, central or rear sound setups can be selected in True Image™ mode, resulting in an authentic audio experience in the selected listening position. Various sound modes are additionally stored in the “Sound Mode” menu, enabling selection between a “Reference” high-end studio sound and a surround option. While “Reference” focuses on an authentic, unadulterated rendering of the artist’s performance, the special surround sound mode is particularly ideal for live or concert music, creating a unique panoramic sound in the vehicle without compromising the natural character of the recording.

The illuminated 50 W tweeters featuring Acoustic Lens Technology in the mirror triangles add special highlights. High-quality loudspeaker covers in “silver chrome” bearing the Bang & Olufsen logo additionally allude to the exclusive character of the high-end surround sound system.

designo wooden luggage compartment floor in American cherry

A further highlight for all models of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake is the designo wooden luggage compartment floor. This luggage compartment floor is made of open-pore American cherry wood, a decorative fine wood traditionally used in superior interior design work, high-quality furniture and exclusive ship outfitting applications. Selected veneer sheets are glued and pressed together by hand in cross-bonded layers to achieve high dimensional stability. The blanks are milled into their precise shape using a CNC machine, and the surfaces are sanded to a smooth finish, waterproofed and oiled to highlight the natural beauty of the wood.

Dark fumed oak inlays, precision-cut in narrow three-millimetre strips using laser technology, lend a definitive finishing touch to the design of the luggage compartment floor. In combination with rubber strips, the extruded aluminium rails with brushed surfaces not only protect the wood surface but also have an anti-slip effect.

The market launch of the CLS 63 AMG with rear-wheel drive will begin in April 2013, with the all-wheel-drive CLS 63 AMG and the CLS 63 AMG S-Model following in June.