The Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake (X218) represents a unique blend of high-performance and practicality, introduced for the 2013 model year (production from June 2012 to January 2013). It combined the elegant, coupe-like styling of the CLS with the versatility of a station wagon, a body style relatively uncommon in the high-performance luxury segment. This variant, powered by the 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 525 horsepower, and paired with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed automatic transmission, occupied the top echelon of the CLS Shooting Brake lineup, offering a significant performance upgrade over the lower-powered models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS Shooting Brake (X218) |
| Type (Engine) | AMG CLS 63 V8 (525 Hp) AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Start of production | June, 2012 |
| End of production | January, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 14 l/100 km (16.8 US mpg, 20.2 UK mpg, 7.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg, 28 UK mpg, 9.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 235 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.6 kg/Hp, 279.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 372.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 525 Hp @ 5250-5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 96.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1700-5000 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1700-5000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 157.980 |
| Engine displacement | 5461 cm3 (333.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2540 kg (5599.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 660 kg (1455.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 590 l (20.84 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1550 l (54.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4956 mm (195.12 in.) |
| Width | 1881 mm (74.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2075 mm (81.69 in.) |
| Height | 1416 mm (55.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1622 mm (63.86 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×26 mm |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake lies the M157.980 5.5-liter V8 engine. This engine is a marvel of engineering, featuring direct fuel injection, twin turbochargers, and a sophisticated cylinder deactivation system (AMG Cylinder Management) to improve fuel efficiency. The twin-turbo setup delivers instant response and a broad torque curve. The engine produces 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1700 rpm, providing effortless acceleration. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed automatic transmission is a key component of the powertrain. Unlike a traditional torque converter automatic, the MCT utilizes a wet clutch pack, similar to a dual-clutch transmission, for faster and more direct gear changes. This contributes to the car’s sporty driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake with the 7-speed automatic delivers exhilarating performance. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 4.2 seconds, and the car is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The MCT transmission provides quick and precise shifts, especially in Sport+ mode. While not as raw or visceral as a manual transmission, the automatic offers a seamless and engaging driving experience. The air suspension in the rear contributes to a comfortable ride, even with the performance-oriented suspension tuning. Compared to the CLS 550 models, the 63 AMG offers a significantly more powerful and responsive driving experience. The lower-powered variants prioritize comfort and fuel economy, while the 63 AMG is focused on outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting its flagship status. These included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, navigation, and a panoramic sunroof. Optional extras included carbon fiber trim, upgraded leather packages, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The interior design was luxurious and sporty, with AMG-specific touches such as a flat-bottom steering wheel and unique instrument cluster graphics. The standard exterior features included AMG body styling, including aggressive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and quad exhaust outlets.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake featured a sophisticated chassis designed to handle the engine’s immense power. The front suspension utilized a multi-link setup with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link design with air suspension and a transverse stabilizer bar. This combination provided a balance of comfort and handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger rotors and calipers compared to the lower-powered CLS models. ABS and electronic stability control were standard features, providing enhanced safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, engaging driving dynamics, and unique blend of practicality and luxury. However, some critics noted the relatively high price tag and the limited rear headroom due to the sloping roofline. Compared to other high-performance station wagons, such as the Audi RS6 Avant and the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo, the CLS 63 AMG offered a more aggressive and sporty character. Fuel economy, while respectable for a vehicle of this performance, was not a strong point, averaging around 23 mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The M157 engine, while powerful, has demonstrated some susceptibility to head bolt issues in certain model years, requiring preventative maintenance or repair. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission has proven to be generally reliable, but requires regular fluid changes. Today, the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake is a sought-after vehicle in the used car market, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate its unique combination of performance, style, and practicality. Well-maintained examples command a premium price, reflecting their rarity and desirability. The X218 generation CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake remains a distinctive and memorable vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz lineup.
