The Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG, specifically the C218 facelift model produced from July 2014 to December 2017, represents a high-performance iteration of the CLS four-door coupe. Positioned as the flagship variant within the C218 range, it offered a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and technology. This version featured a hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, paired with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed automatic transmission, delivering a substantial 557 horsepower. It aimed to compete with similarly positioned performance coupes from brands like BMW and Audi, offering a more aggressive and driver-focused experience than the standard CLS models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS coupe (C218 facelift, 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | AMG CLS 63 V8 (557 Hp) AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Start of production | July, 2014 |
| End of production | December, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 14-14.2 l/100 km (16.8 – 16.6 US mpg, 20.2 – 19.9 UK mpg, 7.1 – 7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.6-7.7 l/100 km (30.9 – 30.5 US mpg, 37.2 – 36.7 UK mpg, 13.2 – 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9.9-10.1 l/100 km (23.8 – 23.3 US mpg, 28.5 – 28 UK mpg, 10.1 – 9.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 230-234 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.2 kg/Hp, 310.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm, 401.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 557 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102 Hp/l |
| Torque | 720 Nm @ 1750-5250 rpm (531.04 lb.-ft. @ 1750-5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 157.981 |
| 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 | 1795 kg (3957.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2390 kg (5269.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4967 mm (195.55 in.) |
| Width | 1881 mm (74.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2075 mm (81.69 in.) |
| Height | 1411 mm (55.55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.25 m (36.91 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 255/35 R19 Rear wheel tires: 285/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 9J x 19 Rear wheel rims: 10J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLS 63 AMG lies the M157.981 5.5-liter V8 engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers to produce 557 horsepower and 720 Nm (531 lb-ft) of torque. The turbochargers are positioned within the ‘V’ of the engine, contributing to a more compact design and improved responsiveness. The engine also features cylinder deactivation, a technology that shuts down cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel efficiency. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed automatic transmission is a key component of the powertrain. Unlike a traditional torque converter automatic, the MCT utilizes a wet multi-plate clutch instead, offering faster shift times and a more direct connection to the engine. This transmission also features selectable drive modes, allowing the driver to tailor the shift characteristics to their preferences.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 63 AMG delivers a potent driving experience. The combination of the powerful V8 engine and the quick-shifting MCT transmission results in impressive acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in around 4 seconds. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a balanced feel, although traction can be a concern under hard acceleration. The air suspension provides a comfortable ride in normal driving conditions, while also offering the ability to stiffen the dampers for more precise handling in sport mode. Compared to the CLS 550 with its naturally aspirated V8, the 63 AMG offers significantly more power and a more aggressive character. Against the CLS 350d diesel, the 63 AMG sacrifices fuel economy for a substantial performance advantage.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 63 AMG came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Exterior features included AMG-specific body styling, including a unique front fascia, side skirts, and rear diffuser. Optional extras included carbon fiber trim, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. The interior typically featured AMG sport seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 63 AMG featured a sophisticated chassis designed to handle the engine’s 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 another transverse stabilizer. This air suspension system allowed for adjustable ride height and damping. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger rotors and multi-piston calipers compared to the standard CLS models. ABS and electronic stability control were standard features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLS 63 AMG was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, luxurious interior, and distinctive styling. However, some reviewers noted that the ride could be firm in sport mode and that the fuel economy was relatively poor. Compared to its rivals, such as the BMW 650i xDrive and the Audi RS7, the CLS 63 AMG offered a unique blend of luxury and performance. Its fuel economy was comparable to other high-performance coupes, and its reliability was generally considered to be good, although maintenance costs could be high.
Legacy
The C218 CLS 63 AMG remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. The M157 engine, while powerful, is known to require diligent maintenance, particularly regarding oil changes and cooling system upkeep. The seven-speed MCT transmission has proven to be relatively reliable, but clutch wear should be considered on higher-mileage examples. Overall, the CLS 63 AMG represents a compelling option for buyers seeking a high-performance luxury coupe with a distinctive character. Its combination of power, style, and technology continues to appeal to enthusiasts today.
