Coupe-styled sedans are gaining traction in the upper end of the market—almost every luxury import brand now offers one. Mercedes-Benz fields the CLS-Class in this segment, a sexy four-door made all the more enticing in AMG performance trim.
What's New for 2014
All models get a modest increase in horsepower and standard all-wheel drive. The new S Model provides an extra dose of performance for those who can’t get enough of a good thing.
Choosing Your Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG
Based loosely on the midsize E-Class sedan, the CLS63 AMG features a dramatically sloping roofline and sumptuous four-person interior. Under the hood is a twin-turbo 5.5-liter good for 550 horsepower, paired with a specially tuned seven-speed automatic. The AMG also gets a sport-tuned adaptive suspension, summer performance tires on 19-inch wheels, a power rear sunshade and special trim pieces throughout.
Other equipment is shared with the rest of the CLS-Class line, including a Harman-Kardon surround-sound system, navigation with voice controls and 10-way heated front seats with memory.
Buyers have a choice of individual upgrades like carbon fiber interior trim, a carbon fiber spoiler, infrared night vision, heated rear seats and carbon-ceramic brakes.
Most other options are bundled into packages:
- S Model: Gets a bump to 577 horsepower, a higher top-speed limiter, a limited-slip differential, launch control, additional suspension tuning and unique wheels and interior trim.
- Premium: Adds massaging and ventilated front seats, a review camera, remote start, keyless access and an automatic trunk closer.
- Parking Assist: Equips the CLS63 AMG with front and rear parking sensors and an automated parallel parking system.
- Lane Tracking: Gets you active blind-spot and lane-keeping assists.
- Driver Assistance: Along with the above, adds adaptive cruise control with steering assist, cross-traffic assist, pedestrian detection and a collision mitigation system.
The CLS63 AMG is one of those cars you must see for yourself to appreciate—the styling is that remarkable. A conventional sedan will offer more headroom in back, but that’s a trivial sacrifice all things considered.