The Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 S, specifically the C218 facelift model produced from July 2014 to December 2017, represents the pinnacle of performance within the CLS coupe range. Positioned as the flagship variant, it combined the elegant four-door coupe styling of the CLS with the formidable power of Mercedes-AMG’s 5.5-liter biturbo V8 engine. This iteration of the CLS 63 S was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a luxurious, high-performance vehicle that offered both grand touring comfort and exhilarating acceleration. It competed directly with other high-performance luxury coupes such as the Porsche Panamera and BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS |
| Generation | CLS coupe (C218 facelift, 2014) |
| Type | AMG CLS 63 S V8 (585 Hp) AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 4MATIC |
| Start of production | July, 2014 |
| End of production | December, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.3-14.5 l/100 km (16.4 – 16.2 US mpg, 19.8 – 19.5 UK mpg, 7 – 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8-8.2 l/100 km (29.4 – 28.7 US mpg, 35.3 – 34.4 UK mpg, 12.5 – 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.3-10.5 l/100 km (22.8 – 22.4 US mpg, 27.4 – 26.9 UK mpg, 9.7 – 9.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 239-244 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.2 kg/Hp, 312.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.3 kg/Nm, 427.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 585 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 1750-5000 rpm (590.05 lb.-ft. @ 1750-5000 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 | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2415 kg (5324.16 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 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 | 1431 mm (56.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.25 m (36.91 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | 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 |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size (Front) | 255/35 R19 |
| Tires size (Rear) | 285/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size (Front) | 9J x 19 |
| Wheel rims size (Rear) | 10J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLS 63 S is the M157.981 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a sophisticated cylinder deactivation system (AMG Cylinder Management) to improve fuel efficiency when full power isn’t required. The twin turbochargers are positioned within the ‘V’ of the engine, reducing turbo lag and providing a broad torque curve. The engine produces 585 horsepower at 5500 rpm and a substantial 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque available from 1750 to 5000 rpm. This power is channeled through a seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT (Multi Clutch Technology) automatic transmission. Unlike a traditional torque converter automatic, the MCT utilizes a wet clutch pack, offering faster and more direct gear changes. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The CLS 63 S delivers a driving experience that blends luxury with raw performance. The combination of the powerful V8 engine and the quick-shifting MCT transmission results in blistering acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.4 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip, particularly in adverse weather conditions. While the suspension is tuned for comfort, it also offers a firm and controlled ride, minimizing body roll during cornering. Compared to lower-powered CLS variants, such as the CLS 400, the 63 S offers a significantly more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The higher output and more responsive transmission make it a true performance machine. The exhaust note is also considerably more aggressive, adding to the overall sporty character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLS 63 S came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and a large infotainment display. Standard exterior features included AMG body styling, quad exhaust outlets, and 19-inch alloy wheels. Optional extras included carbon fiber trim, a head-up display, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The interior was typically finished with high-quality materials and offered a luxurious ambiance.
Chassis & Braking
The CLS 63 S features a sophisticated suspension system designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension utilizes a multi-link setup with coil springs, while the rear suspension incorporates air suspension and a multi-link design. This allows for adjustable ride height and damping characteristics. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The AMG braking system, available as an option, featured larger rotors and calipers for even greater performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLS 63 S was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, luxurious interior, and stylish design. However, some reviewers noted that the ride could be firm on rough roads. Compared to other trims in the CLS lineup, the 63 S offered a significantly higher level of performance and exclusivity, but also came with a substantial price premium. Fuel economy was predictably lower than that of the more efficient CLS variants, but remained reasonable for a high-performance vehicle of its size and capability.
Legacy
The C218 CLS 63 S has established itself as a desirable used performance car. The M157 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues include potential oil leaks and occasional problems with the turbochargers, but these are generally addressable. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission is also generally durable. Today, the CLS 63 S offers a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and style, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking a high-performance four-door coupe.
