Mercedes-Benz Confirms New Drivetrain for CLS63 AMG, Announces CLA45 AMG
An AMG SpeedShift 7-speed MCT sports transmission is equipped with downshift rev matching and RaceStart functions, and provides Controlled Efficiency, Sport, Sport Plus, and Manual driving modes. When the CLS63 AMG 4Matic is in the Controlled Efficiency setting, the standard Eco Start/Stop technology shuts the engine off when idling at an intersection or in traffic to help conserve fuel.
Expect 33% of the power to flow to the front wheels, with 67% delivered to the rear wheels to ensure a rear-biased feel, Mercedes says. The company quotes a 3.6-second 0-60 mph time for the new E63 AMG 4Matic; so the acceleration performance for the 2014 CLS AMG 4Matic should be about the same.
The new 2014 CLS63 AMG 4Matic will also be offered as a more powerful S-Model, which replaces the previous AMG Performance package. The CLS63 AMG S-Model 4Matic version's twin-turbo 5.5-liter V-8 generates 577 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 590 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,750 and 5,000 rpm. Acceleration to 60 mph is slightly quicker, Mercedes claims, and the model's top speed exceeds 185 mph.
Mercedes-Benz also announced that the performance-tuned version of the upcoming 2014 CLA-Class, which is scheduled to debut in Detroit this week, will be offered as the CLA45 AMG and that it will also come standard with the modified 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.
2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Summary, Photos & Specs
Mercedes-Benz Car & Truck Ratings
2013 Mercedes-Benz Buyer's Guide