Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG US Version, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

Mercedes-Benz  CLS63 AMG US Version, 2012

The top-of-the-range version of the four-door coupé is equipped with the newly developed AMG V8 biturbo engine, featuring a peak output of up to 557 hp and 800 Nm of torque, as well as the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. On top of this, the vehicle's fuel consumption of 28.5 mpg represents an improvement of 32 per cent compared with the previous model (all figures provisional).

The combination of an AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with an electronically controlled damping system and new front axle, newly developed electromechanical AMG sports parameter steering, and also optional AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system, is synonymous with maximum driving dynamics. Visually, the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG impresses with its athletic appearance and distinctive exterior and interior design. The model's standard specification also includes innovative LED High Performance headlamps.

Like the S63 AMG and CL63 AMG, drivers of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG will benefit from an eight-cylinder powerhouse, designated internally as the M 157: the new AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine boasts a combination of innovative high-tech components which, in addition to spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, also include a full aluminium crankcase, four-valve technology with camshaft adjustment, air/water intercooling, generator management and stop/start system. With a displacement of 5461 cc, the eight-cylinder engine develops a peak output of 525 hp and torque of 700 Nm. In conjunction with the AMG Performance package, these figures increase to 557 hp and 800 Nm. Both variants of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG achieve exceptional performance: acceleration from! 0-62 mph takes 4.4 and 4.3 seconds respectively, and the top speed is 155 mph (electronically limited).

The major difference between both power units is the increase in the maximum charge-air pressure from 1.0 to 1.3 bar. In addition, the CLS63 AMG with the AMG Performance package features a special high-quality carbon fibre engine cover.

Quantum leap: fuel consumption reduced by 32 percent
Despite a significant performance increase compared with the previous model, which had a naturally aspirated AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine producing 514 hp and 630 Nm of torque, the new Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is some 32 per cent, more economical - which represents a quantum leap forward.

The NEDC fuel consumption of 28.5 mpg equates to a CO2 output of 232 g/km. The new V8 Coupé from AMG not only undercuts all of its direct competitors in the small but refined four-door high-performance coupé segment, but is also more fuel efficient than significantly lower-powered vehicles. Both performance variants have identical fuel consumption and CO2 figures.

Exclusive: AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission
A major contribution towards achieving the unrivalled consumption figures has been made by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, a component used exclusively at Mercedes-AMG. Unlike a conventional automatic transmission, the MCT transmission does away with the torque converter; instead, it makes use of a compact, wet start-up clutch. Also fitted as standard equipment is the stop/start function: it is permanently active in the transmission's Controlled Efficiency ("C") mode, and switches the eight-cylinder engine off when the car comes to a stop. At the same time, "C" mode also means a "soft" accelerator response set-up with convenient and early gearshifts; moving off generally takes place in second gear. A green "ECO" symbol in the AMG instrument cluster shows the driver that the stop/start function is active.

The engine and transmission come across as much more agile in the "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual) modes; in addition, the stop/start function is switched off. In "S" and "M" modes, the engine management system partially suppresses the cylinders: interrupting ignition and injection under full load leads to even faster gearshifts than before. The highly emotional vocals are an appealing side effect of this lightning-fast process. An automatic double-declutching function and RACE START function are also included as standard.

Autonomously developed AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension
The suspension, steering and braking system of the new CLS63 AMG complement the high-tech drive system perfectly. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, with steel suspension struts on the front axle and air suspension struts on the rear axle, as well as automatic level control, is enhanced further by an electronically controlled damping system; it automatically adjusts the damping characteristics depending on the driving conditions and reduces the roll angle of the body. The result: lightning-fast adjustment between optimum driving comfort and the best possible agility. The driver can switch between the three suspension modes of "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport plus" at the press of a button.

The autonomously developed front axle, with a track width which is 24 mm wider, is the perfect match for the newly developed electromechanical AMG sports parameter steering. It not only features variable power assistance which adapts according to the suspension mode, but also contributes towards reducing fuel consumption, since the steering assistance system only draws power when the vehicle is actually being steered. The 3-stage ESP® also has individual setting options - thereby providing a definite advantage when it comes to combining driving pleasure with absolute driving safety.

AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system available as an option
Perfect deceleration even when driving extremely briskly is ensured by the AMG high-performance braking system with 360 mm, internally ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round. Particularly resistant, motorsports-tested composite technology is used on the front axle. The optional AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system with yet larger brake discs guarantees an even higher level of braking performance as well as lower unsprung masses. Good contact with the road, meanwhile, is provided courtesy of the titanium grey-painted, high-sheen AMG light-alloy wheels featuring a new triple-spoke design and fitted with 255/35 R 19 tyres on the front and 285/30 R 19 tyres on the rear.

Intelligent lightweight construction: making a significant contribution to efficiency
The highest level of engineering is also reflected in the body of the new CLS63 AMG: the intelligent lightweight construction makes a significant contribution towards addressing the classic conflicting goals of low weight and high strength. Like the SLS AMG, the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is also fitted with doors featuring a full aluminium construction. They consist of deep-drawn aluminium panels with extruded sections, and are around 24 kg lighter compared with conventional steel doors. In addition, the bonnet, front wings, boot lid, parcel shelf, various support sections as well as major parts of the chassis and engine are all made from aluminium too.

Light-years ahead: LED High Performance headlamps as standard
The Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is the first passenger car in the world to offer LED High Performance headlamps, which combine the exciting colour elements of LED technology - similar to those of daytime running lamps - with the performance, functionality and energy efficiency of today's bi-xenon generation. Fitted as standard, for the first time ever this new light system provides the Intelligent Light System already proven in Mercedes models fitted with bi-xenon headlamps in combination with LED technology. The headlamps, with their 71 LED lamps in total, underline the unmistakable appearance of the CLS63 AMG. The light specialists from Mercedes-Benz have for the first time been able to use LED technology in the Adaptive Highbeam Assist, resulting in an entirely new level of safety when driving at night.

In contrast to the first vehicles equipped with LED headlamps, no compromises are now necessary with respect to the functionality and performance of the lighting technology. There are further arguments for the new, LED-based lighting technology: the average operating life of an LED is around 10,000 hours, around five times longer than that of a xenon light; moreover, LED headlamps most closely approximate the colour temperature of daylight. This means that LED light is in keeping with normal human perception patterns. Studies have shown that the closer the colour of artificial light comes to daylight, the less strain there is on the eyes. With a colour temperature of 5500 kelvin, LED light is closer to daylight (6500 K) than xenon light (4200 K). The LED daytime driving lights specific to AMG are also presented in two characteristic light strips integrated into the AMG front apron.

Exterior design inspired by the SLS AMG
When viewed from the front, the new Mercedes CLS63 AMG evokes associations with the SLS AMG - the radiator grille in particular, with its large Mercedes star and wing-shaped horizontal slats, appears to have been inspired by the gullwing. The top-of-the-range AMG model distinguishes itself from the other CLS variants with its distinctive bonnet, wider mudguards with "V8 BITURBO" logo and a specific AMG front apron with black painted cross member. Eye-catching features at the rear include the diffuser insert, the AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid, the AMG sports exhaust system with dual twin chrome tailpipes, and - as also featured on the SLS AMG - integrated rear foglamp. The AMG bodystyling perfectly matches the typical CLS outline, which is essentially characterised by the elegantly long proportions, the lateral dropping line and the muscular sports car-like shoulder line above the rear axle.

Exclusive atmosphere in the interior
This philosophy also continues through consistently into the interior. All of the AMG-specific design and appointment features ideally supplement the redesigned CLS interior. The wrap-around effect in the cockpit, with its high line which sweeps from the driver's door over the instrument panel support and across to the front passenger door, is generously flanked by high-quality trim elements - available in black piano lacquer as standard in the top-of-the-range AMG model. Quality materials and workmanship meet the very highest of standards and help to guarantee a particularly exclusive atmosphere.

The extensive range of standard appointments also includes AMG sports seats in nappa leather, a new three-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles and flattened top and bottom sections, and the AMG DRIVE UNIT with compact E-SELECT selector lever.

New driving assistance systems: greater safety
More than a dozen driving assistance systems on the new CLS help to prevent traffic accidents and reduce the severity of an accident. The Active Blind Spot Assist and the Active Lane Keeping Assist are new.

Active Blind Spot Assist warns the driver if it detects - with the assistance of short-range radar sensors - that there is a danger of collision if the vehicle is about to change lanes. Should the driver ignore the warnings and come dangerously close to the vehicle in the next lane, Active Blind Spot Assist will intervene. By applying braking force to the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle via the Electronic Stability Program ESP®, a yaw movement is created which counteracts the collision course.

Active Lane Keeping Assist is now also linked to the ESP for the first time. This system kicks into action if the driver inadvertently drifts over a solid line to the right or left of a lane. In this case, Active Lane Keeping Assist brakes the opposite wheels and thereby prevents the vehicle from crossing the line. A display on the instrument cluster warns the driver at the same time. If broken lane markings are crossed, the system controls an electric pulse generator in the steering wheel which generates vibrations for a short time - a discreet but highly effective cue to countersteer immediately. Before the braking system intervenes, the steering wheel always vibrates to provide a warning.

Design and equipment: The exclusively styled athlete - a true AMG
Distinctive, exclusive, unique - the design of the new CLS63 AMG can be described in just a few words. The exceptional position occupied by the four-door high-performance Coupé is apparent from the very moment you set eyes on it. High-quality materials, comprehensive standard equipment, and a dynamic ambience typical of an AMG are the defining elements of the newly designed interior.

Externally, the top-of-the-range AMG model differs from the other CLS variants as a result of some specific visual modifications. The front view is dominated by the distinct radiator grille, the three-dimensional shape of which is very reminiscent of the SLS AMG. The large Mercedes star and prominent wing-shaped horizontal grille slat with chrome trim are equally evocative of the gull-wing model. The long bonnet with its V-shaped contour hints at the powerful package which lies beneath.

The AMG front apron is also markedly powerful: thanks to the drawn-out side air intakes with black grilles - flanked by LED daytime driving lights - and central air intake with black-painted cross strut, it makes for a real head-turning feature. A further highlight of the front view are the LED High-Performance headlamps. The characteristic AMG front apron continues stylishly into the broad wings, with integrated "V8 BITURBO" logo. The side view - which is defined by an innovative interplay between lines and areas, the lateral "dropping line" and also the wide-set wheel arches - receives an additional touch of dynamism courtesy of the titanium grey-painted high-sheen AMG light-alloy wheels, which feature a new triple-spoke design. The filigree spokes also provide a glimpse of the generously dimensioned AMG high-performance braking system.

The powerfully shaped rear end of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is an equal match for the car's front and side views: the exciting profile of the AMG rear apron with black diffuser insert also incorporates the dual twin chrome tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system as well as the rear fog lamp. The wide wraparound bicolour tail lamps featuring LED technology and the wide metal insert make for additional visual highlights.

The harmoniously integrated AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid helps to reduce lift at the rear axle by around 26 percent and further enhances handling at high speeds.

The interior

The impression of the interior on opening the doors is defined by the exquisite quality of finish and the "wraparound" effect which is typical of the CLS: a high line sweeps in an arc from the driver's door over the instrument panel support and across to the front passenger door, ensuring a feeling of security. Onlookers will discover the highest quality of materials, for example in the generous use of black piano lacquer trim elements. Up to seven layers of paint are applied and polished off until the desired high-sheen finish is achieved. An even more exclusive touch can be give to the interior with the optional AMG trim elements in carbon fibre/black piano lacquer.

The same goes for the leather upholstery: the AMG sports seats in nappa leather with cross-stitch sports design feature a surface quality which is particularly soft to the touch, making any journey in the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG an exceptionally pleasant experience. The driver and front seat passenger are accommodated in separate, newly developed AMG sports seats with electric adjustment, multicontour and memory functions, seat heating and AMG badges. All interior elements with which the driver comes into contact are finished in leather. Three colours of leather, namely black, alpaca grey and almond beige, are available to choose from. The two individual seats in the rear are designed to match the front AMG sports seats.

The new AMG Performance steering wheel with its three-spoke design has aluminium shift paddles, flattened upper and lower sections as well as specially shaped grip areas covered in perforated leather. The three-dimensional airbag cover is embedded into a metallic trim element in "silver shadow", the lower spoke of which has an open design. Twelve multifunction buttons are used to control al of the infotainment functions. A special highlight is the high-quality analogue clock featuring an "IWC Ingenieur" design located between the centre air vents.

Colourful, three-dimensional display with AMG welcome logo
The three tube-shaped round cockpit instruments behind the steering wheel provide information on the coolant temperature and tank capacity (left), road speed (centre) and engine rpm (right). A highlight of the exclusive CLS63 AMG instrumentation is the colourful three-dimensional TFT display in the centre of the speedometer, which welcomes the driver by displaying a striking AMG logo when the driver's door is opened. The round instruments come with a new look, red needles, a 320 km/h speedometer scale and also a characteristic "AMG" and "V8 Biturbo" logo.

The AMG main menu, which is integrated into the central display of the speedometer, can be operated conveniently using the multifunction buttons on the steering wheel. The three modes "Warm Up", "Set Up" and "RACE" keep the driver well informed: "Warm Up" indicates the engine oil and coolant temperature, "Set Up" indicates the current ESP® mode, the suspension setting - "Comfort", "Sport" or "Sport plus" - and the transmission mode - "C", "S", "S+" or "M". In "RACE" the RACETIMER is ready; this allows the driver to record lap times on private racing circuits.

The AMG DRIVE UNIT, which is angled towards the driver, enables individual settings to be selected for the MCT sports transmission, the ESP functions, the suspension set-up and the AMG drive modes. Located in the centre console, the E-SELECT selector lever, which boasts a compact, sporty design and leather finish, can be simply nudged to shift directly between R, N and D, all thanks to drive-by-wire. The parking lock, meanwhile, can be activated simply by briefly pressing the P-button.

All of the controls in the interior are finished in high-quality "silver shadow" - from the button surrounds on the AMG DRIVE UNIT and the rotary switches on the automatic climate control, through to the buttons for such functions as seat heating or PARKTRONIC.

Standard equipment:

•     AMG door sill panels in brushed stainless steel
•     AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
•     the luxury automatic climate control THERMOTRONIC

One of the highlights of the attractive optional extras is the AMG Performance package which is available for the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG. It comprises:

•     an increase in the peak output of 24 kW (32 hp) and in the maximum torque of 100 Nm; genuine carbon fibre AMG engine cover
•     genuine carbon fibre AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid
•     red-painted brake calipers
•     AMG Performance steering wheel with Alcantara inserts in the grip areas

Exclusive optional extras are also available from the AMG Performance Studio:

•     AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension
•     Lightweight forged AMG light-alloy wheels featuring a 5-twin-spoke design and fitted with 255/35 R 19 tyres at the front and 285/30 R 19 tyres at the rear
•     AMG rear axle locking differential with 40 percent locking action
•     AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system
•     AMG Exterior Carbon package
•     AMG trim elements in carbon fibre/black piano lacquer
•     Illuminated AMG door sill panels
•     AMG Driver's Package (includes restriction of top speed to 300 km/h, participation in driver training course at the AMG Driving Academy)
•     designo: tailor-made individuality

A unique series of appointment details are available from the designo range for the CLS63 AMG which customers can use to reflect their own personal style.

The wide range of exclusive paint finishes, leather upholstery, trim elements and steering wheels provides for the proverbial tailor-made individuality. Seven designo colours, including two matt paint finishes, can be combined with ten designo leather colours. The Alcantara roof lining, available in three colour shades, rounds off the look perfectly.



Other optional extras include (extracts):

•     Active Parking Assist
•     Active Blind Spot Assist
•     Ambient lighting
•     COMAND APS multimedia system
•     Digital radio (DAB)
•     Driving Assistance package Plus (DISTRONIC PLUS, BAS PLUS, PRE-SAFE brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist)
•     Speed Limit Assist
•     Harman Kardon Logic7 surround sound system
•     KEYLESS-GO package
•     Media interface
•     Night View Assist Plus
•     Tyre pressure monitoring system
•     Reversing camera
•     Front climatised seats
•     Lane Tracking package (Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist)
•     TV tuner

Specially designed "Edition 1" with matt paint finish
Also available is the special limited "Edition 1" version of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG. Finished in the new manganite grey SHAPE matt paint, the "Edition 1" features a host of specially designed high-quality interior details. On opening the doors, the first items to catch the eye are the AMG sports seats: the "corteccia pearl" designo leather is characterised by a shimmering metallic surface finish. The roof lining, A, B and C-pillars, as well as the sunblinds, are finished in anthracite Alcantara®, while carbon fibre/black piano lacquer AMG trim elements help to give the interior a functional atmosphere. Also making a perfect match for the designo leather seats are the designo floormats in black velour, featuring designo badge and designo leather insert in "corteccia pearl".

Chassis and braking system: Agile, dynamic, exclusive
The Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG also occupies an exceptional position in the areas of suspension and the braking system. The exclusive combination of AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, electromechanical AMG sports parameter steering and AMG high-performance braking system guarantees a high level of driving dynamics, awe-inspiring agility and at the same time renowned Mercedes comfort on long journeys.

For the CLS63 AMG, the AMG engineers developed a new AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension which is characterised by a high degree of variability. A steel suspension is used at the front, and an all-air suspension system at the rear. This solution guarantees a sensitive response from the front springs while the vehicle is kept at a constant height thanks to the automatic level control system - irrespective of the load. The top-of-the-line AMG model differs from the other CLS variants with its newly developed three-link front suspension with wider track - increased by 24 mm, to 1623 mm, compared with the CLS 500. In conjunction with new hub carriers for more negative camber at the front, this provides much more grip when taking bends at high speed.

Another feature of the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension is the electronically controlled damping system: the system varies the damping characteristics instantly according to the driving situation, road speed and load status, reducing the roll angle of the body. For the driver this means instant, continuously variable adjustment between the greatest possible agility and optimum ride comfort - depending on the driving style and route. The damping can also be individually adjusted by pressing the appropriate button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. A push of a button is all it takes for the electronics to switch from "Comfort" to "Sport" or "Sport plus." The selected mode is displayed in the AMG instrument cluster.

"Comfort" delivers a sensitive response with soft damping characteristics, while the shock absorber response is an average 40 percent firmer in "Sport". "Sport plus" is ideal for challenging laps on a racetrack: in addition to the higher damping force, this mode comes with specific control algorithms that have been tailor-made for a decidedly sporty driving style on level road surfaces. The driving dynamics of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG can be upgraded even further ex factory: exclusive optional extras available from the AMG Performance Studio include a stiffer performance suspension, lightweight forged AMG light-alloy wheels and also a rear axle locking differential with a 40 percent locking action.

Eleven sensors for electronic damper control
The electronic damper control utilises four sensors to permanently monitor the drive and brake torque along with steering angle and lateral acceleration. Four position sensors are also used to determine the ride height and to ascertain the direction of motion. Three acceleration sensors help identify the absolute body roll. Powerful control electronics that interact constantly with the engine and transmission control units instantly adjust the forces at the four shock absorbers.

New axle components and more direct steering
The high-grade axle components, made for the most part from aluminium, are further evidence of the painstakingly redesigned AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension. New steering knuckles, wishbones, torque strut bearings and head bearings at the front provide extra stability and improved road contact. A weight-optimised, thicker tubular stabiliser reduces body roll on fast S-shaped bends. The rear suspension has also been substantially reworked in the interests of enhanced handling stability: new track rods, push-pull rods and far more rigid mountings for the subframe - on which the rear axle is mounted - translate into enhanced dynamics when cornering. The AMG-specific kinematics and the new elastokinematics on both axles also noticeably increase precision during cornering - a solution that has already proven itself on the C63 AMG.

New, more direct electromechanical steering ratio
This is complemented by the newly developed electromechanical AMG sports parameter steering: with a steering ratio (14:1) which is 22 percent more direct than that of other CLS models, and in conjunction with the variable power assistance which adapts according to the suspension mode, it provides for decidedly agile handling when cornering. In addition, the electromechanical AMG sports parameter steering also makes an important contribution to efficiency, since the steering assist function only requires power when the driver actually steers. Compared with the previous model with regular hydraulic power steering, this enables savings of up to 0.3 litre/7 g CO2 per 100 km (NEDC combined) to be achieved.

In the new steering system the steering gear and the supporting servo-motor form a single compact unit and are mounted as previously on an extremely rigid and low-weight integral support frame, made of high-strength steel, which is positioned in front of the wheel's centre line. The high-performance control unit processes a variety of parameters captured by the sensors - including vehicle speed, steering angle, steering angle speed, lateral acceleration and also understeer/oversteer characteristics - and in a split second calculates the forces which the driver needs to input into the steering in different driving situations - from parking to high-speed motorway driving. Active damping enhances the feeling of safety when driving straight ahead at high speed.

AMG-specific solutions for enhanced steering precision and driving dynamics
An AMG-specific solution has been implemented in the form of the fixed, programmed power assistance characteristics. In suspension mode "C", the AMG sports parameter steering has a comfortable feel, providing a higher level of steering assistance. In "S+" mode, on the other hand, the driver will discern reduced steering assistance - which tends to result in a better road feel. This in turn results in enhanced response and steering precision. Another AMG exclusive is the interaction between the new steering and the 3-stage ESP®: the driver will feel if the vehicle starts to understeer thanks to a defined superposition of a steering moment earlier than with a regular power steering system. In "ESP SPORT" and "ESP OFF", the special control algorithm helps the driver to achieve a cleaner side-slip angle.

In addition to more precise steering and a more comfortable feel at the wheel, the new electric power steering offers a range of additional advantages. Power assistance remains available when the engine is stationary, for example - whereby an algorithm ensures that the combustion engine is not prompted to start up in ECO start/stop mode when the driver is merely moving the steering wheel while the vehicle is at a standstill. The new steering system has also enabled implementation of the "Active Park Assist" automatic parking function and relieves the strain on the driver on road surfaces which slope away towards the kerb.

The new steering system also assists with braking on a surface with vastly varying grip (split friction surface). Sensors recognise the impending yaw if the vehicle starts to turn in towards the side of the lane with more grip. Through the superposition of a steering moment the driver receives an impulse to countersteer. If s/he acts on this signal, the steering moment is withdrawn. Deploying the Steering Assist on split friction surfaces can help to improve both the directional stability and also shorten the braking time.

3-stage ESP with Sport function
The 3-stage ESP is also consistently tailored to the superb dynamic qualities of the CLS63 AMG: the Electronic Stability Program supports three individual control strategies at the push of a button: the ESP® button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT allows the driver to choose between "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT" and "ESP OFF" - with the currently active mode shown in the display of the AMG instrument cluster. In "ESP ON", the onset of handling instability leads to braking intervention at one or more of the wheels, accompanied by a reduction in engine torque.

Briefly pressing the ESP button activates "ESP SPORT". In this mode the braking intervention to counter oversteer or understeer, as well as the accompanying reduction in engine torque, allows a higher dynamic threshold and, for instance, corresponding drift angles - thereby significantly enhancing driving enjoyment. Operating the brake pedal restores all the normal ESP functions. Prolonged pressure on the ESP button activates "ESP OFF". In the interests of handling dynamics, there is no further reduction in engine torque - with the result that driving enjoyment is increased even further. "ESP OFF" should only be used by experienced drivers on dedicated racetracks. In this mode too, operating the brake pedal restores all the normal functions of ESP®.

The system's traction logic is active in all three ESP® modes. If one of the drive wheels starts to spin, specific brake pressure is applied to virtually create the effect of a mechanical differential lock. This means that the engine power is transferred to the road even more effectively.

As you would expect from an AMG high-performance car, the new Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG also comes with an ultra-powerful braking system. Internally ventilated and perforated brake discs with a generous 360-millimetre diameter are fitted front and rear. Because of the special stresses they face, the front discs feature composite technology that has been tried and tested in motor racing to help offset the temperature peaks more effectively. Grey-painted brake callipers with white AMG lettering and six-piston (front) and four-piston technology (rear) provide responsive, fade-resistant deceleration and extremely short stopping distances.

AMG ceramic composite high-performance brakes are available as an option and are instantly recognisable thanks to the "AMG Carbon Ceramic" logo on the brake callipers. Thanks to the special materials and production technology used to manufacture the discs from carbon-fibre-reinforced ceramic in a vacuum at 1700 degrees Celsius, the ceramic discs are much harder. This not only increases the service life many times over compared with a grey cast iron disc, but also their resistance to extreme loads and heat. The result is extremely short stopping distances, an exact pressure point and much higher fade resistance even under extreme operating conditions. The larger ceramic discs - front: 402 x 39 millimetres; rear: 360 x 32 millimetres - also feature a composite design and are connected with a floating radial mount to an aluminium bowl.

Compared with the conventional composite brake discs, the ceramic brake discs are around 40 percent lighter. The further reduction in unsprung masses not only boosts driving dynamics and agility but also improves steering response as well as ride comfort and contact characteristics. Six-piston fixed callipers are fitted at the front with a brake lining surface of 2 x 154 cm2; four-piston fixed callipers with a brake lining surface of 2 x 73 cm2 are used at the rear.

Numerous functions of the high-performance braking system enhance comfort and safety. Take the practical HOLD function: if the CLS63 AMG has come to a stop, the driver simply needs to press the brake pedal a little bit firmer. The vehicle is now held by the brake - even if the driver takes their foot off the brake pedal. This prevents the vehicle from unintentionally rolling forward in stop-and-go traffic or inadvertently rolling back on an uphill slope. The HOLD function is automatically disengaged once the vehicle is driven forward. Another useful feature comes in the shape of the hill-start assist. If the sensor technology detects that the driver has stopped on an incline, the brake pressure is automatically maintained constant for a short period. This means the CLS will not roll back and the driver has sufficient time to switch from the brake to the accelerator pedal without having to use the parking brake.

If the driver suddenly switches from the accelerator to the brake pedal prior to emergency braking, the braking system increases the pressure in the brake lines and applies the pads to the brake discs, so that they can grip instantly with full force when the brake pedal is pressed. The system supports the standard-fit Brake Assist by means of this 'priming'. Further standard features include the brake-drying function, which uses brief braking impulses to ensure the film of water on the brake discs is removed in the wet, thus considerably improving the responsiveness of the brakes.

Weight-optimised "Flow Forming" AMG light-alloy wheels
The newly developed AMG light-alloy wheels make a significant contribution to the dynamic handling of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG. As on the SLS AMG, they are produced by the new "flow forming" process. During this production process, hot forming in the area of the rim base makes for a denser material structure, thereby improving long-term durability. This also means that lower wall thicknesses can be achieved. The weight saving of up to 0.8 kg per wheel compared to conventional light-alloy wheels reduces the unsprung masses, further improving the handling dynamics and suspension comfort.

The Coupé is fitted as standard with titanium grey-painted wheels featuring a high-sheen finish and new triple-spoke design. The 9.0 x 19 format front wheels are fitted with 255/35 R 19-size tyres, while the 10 x 19 format rear wheels come with 285/30 R 19-size tyres. Available as an optional extra from the AMG Performance Studio are AMG light-alloy forged wheels in a 5-twin-spoke design and painted in titanium grey with a polished finish. They come with 255/35 R 19 (front) and 285/30 R 19 (rear) wide-base tyres.