New E-Class, CLA, E 63 AMG and CLS 63 AMG: Showtime for new Mercedes-Benz models

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Spring is in the air at Mercedes-Benz and a whole array of new models is now on display at Mercedes-Benz showrooms. The Saloon and Estate of the new E-Class feature intelligently modified design, a new interior and new, efficient engines. Meanwhile, world-leading aerodynamics, thrilling avant-garde coupé design and cutting-edge technology are the hallmarks of the new CLA. And more powerful than ever are the new E 63 AMG and the Coupé and Shooting Brake of the CLS 63 AMG, which set new benchmarks in terms of performance.

The revised design of the E-Class features a new face and new proportions. The front end design is totally new, incorporating new headlamps housing all the functional elements under a single lens. The E-Class is also available for the first time with two different faces – with the classic, three-dimensional saloon grille and star on the bonnet or the sports car radiator grille with centrally positioned star. A new structural line and a newly positioned three-dimensional trim strip provide the Saloon and Estate with exciting proportions that lend the cars a new look.

Mercedes-Benz has updated the interior of the E-Class, harmoniously coordinating it with the expressive exterior. Fine materials, a two-piece trim extending across the entire width of the dashboard and markedly enhanced comfort are defining features of the interior.

Appointments offering boundless individuality

As previously, attractive design packages are available to enhance the appearance of the exterior and the interior. The new E-Class also offers extensive scope for individual design. All equipment and appointment options are available, whatever the selected equipment line.

New standard of safety with intelligent assistance systems

The modified design of the new E-Class reflects its cutting-edge technology. Both Saloon and Estate are equipped as standard with COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist which significantly reduces the danger of a rear-end collision. Also featuring as standard is ATTENTION ASSIST in an enhanced version which is now able to warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a broader speed range. Other new or substantially enhanced assistance systems are also optionally available for the first time.

Efficient and high-performance new engines

The E-Class marks a major step forwards in terms of efficiency and ecology, thanks to new, powerful BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engines featuring direct-injection technology and a new six-cylinder engine combining high performance and high torque with fuel efficiency, plus yet more efficient diesel engines.

Overall, a broad choice of powerful four, six or eight-cylinder petrol and diesel engines is available for the E-Class. All are equipped with the ECO start/stop system and combine high output with exemplary fuel efficiency. The petrol engines range in output from 135 kW (184 hp) to 430 kW (585 hp) and the diesel engines from 100 kW (136 hp) to 185 kW (252 hp). Virtually all E-Class models with diesel engines comply with efficiency class A, while the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID even attains an A+ efficiency rating.

Despite a substantially broader scope of equipment the prices have only risen moderately, between one and less than three percent. Certain model variants are even available at a lower price than their predecessors. The entry-level price for the new E-Class stands at €40,430.25 incl. VAT for the E 200 CDI Saloon.

The new CLA: style rebel with breathtaking proportions

As a four-door coupé, the CLA boasts sporty proportions, frameless doors and a powerful, dynamic design idiom. The interior features integral seats in front and rear and continues the exterior's progressive, dynamic appearance.

In keeping with its sporty positioning, the CLA is available with high-torque petrol and diesel engines ranging in output from 90 kW (122 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), sports suspension and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The technical highlights of this new design icon include a new world record in aerodynamics for series production cars (Cd value: 0.22) and numerous driving assistance systems, including advanced COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST.

All of the engines feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. The engines are combined with a six-speed manual transmission or with the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission, which reconciles comfort and sportiness in inimitable fashion.

The entry-level price for the new CLA starts at €28,977 incl. VAT for the CLA 180.

Most powerful E-Class: the new E 63 AMG

The Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG sets a new benchmark in terms of performance, dynamism and efficiency. Its output has increased from the previous 386 kW (525 hp) and 700 Nm of torque to 410 kW (557 hp) at 720 Nm. The E 63 AMG boasts the new AMG design philosophy, featuring the "twin blade" radiator grille in silver chrome and the so-called "A wing" in the front apron. Mercedes‑AMG offers its customers tailor-made model variants for even greater individuality. The entry-level price of the new E 63 AMG is €103,054 incl. VAT.

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG: enhanced performance and efficiency

Performance update for the CLS 63 AMG: in both its Coupé and Shooting Brake variants, the CLS now offers 410 kW (557 hp) of power at 5500 rpm and maximum torque of 720 Nm. This represents an increase of 24 kW (32 hp) and 20 Nm over its predecessor. Running on 9.9 (10.1) l/100 km, its AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine also marks the absolute peak of efficiency, with no other vehicle in the segment offering such a combination of exceptional power and low fuel consumption.

The entry-level price for the new CLS 63 AMG Coupé starts at €116,203.50 incl. VAT, while the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake is available from €117,512.50.

Credits: Daimler AG

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The new BRABUS B63S - 730 based on the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG: World debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2013

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537 kW / 730 hp (720 bhp), 1,065 Nm (785 lb-ft) of torque and a top speed up to 350 km/h (217 mph): those are the signature performance figures of the BRABUS B63S - 730 based on the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG, which celebrates its world debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. BRABUS offers not only a peerless high-performance package for the top-of-the-line CLS-Class model: the BRABUS automotive refinement program also includes aerodynamic-enhancement components made from clear-coated carbon-fiber, high-tech forged wheels with a diameter of 20 inches and exclusive options for the interior.

BRABUS offers the world’s most expansive program of performance tuning for the automobiles from Mercedes-Benz. Besides the two already familiar BRABUS power upgrades for the 5.5-liter eight-cylinder Biturbo engine of the CLS 63 rated at 430 kW / 584 hp (576 bhp) and 456 kW / 620 hp (611 bhp), there now is also a new BRABUS B63S - 730 high-performance version, which is backed by the same exemplary BRABUS Tuning Warranty of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers or 62,0000 miles (see BRABUS warranty terms and conditions, updated November 2006) as all other BRABUS components and conversions.

To achieve the enormous boost in power by 127 kW / 173 hp (170 bhp), the BRABUS engine professionals developed and tested an extensive power package for the V8 using state-of-the-art test bench technology. Two special BRABUS turbochargers with larger compressor unit generate a higher boost pressure than the production turbos.
An additional low-temperature water-to-air intercooler for the charge-air cooling system in conjunction with the BRABUS Gold Heat Reflection system for intakes and charge-air tubes results not only in an improved power yield thanks to lower charge-air temperatures. These measures also contribute to the engine’s immaculate durability.

The engine conversion also includes special BRABUS mapping for the engine management system and free-flow metal catalysts with 75-millimeter wide downpipes. The ideal complement to the power upgrades for the CLS 63 AMG is a BRABUS sport exhaust system with butterfly valve. At the push of a button on the steering wheel the driver can choose between operating the V8 in quiet “coming home” and enjoying a markedly sporty exhaust note in “sport” mode. The stainless-steel exhaust system also adds some striking visual highlights with its two ceramics-coated designer dual tailpipes.

The BRABUS B63S - 730 engine, which is lubricated with MOTUL high-performance motor oil, is available for the four-door CLS Coupe and the Shooting Brake. It stands out from the crowd with a maximum power output of 537 kW / 730 hp (720 bhp), available from a low 5,300 rpm. But that’s not all: its enormous peak torque, limited electronically to 1,065 Nm (785 lb-ft), is available steadily over a wide plateau between 1,750 and 5,000 rpm. In conjunction with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission it offers an exhilarating symbiosis of dynamic purpose and sophisticated acceleration.

3.8 seconds from a standing start to 100 km/h (62 mph) are just as unique for a car in this class as is a time of 10.8 seconds for the sprint to 200 km/h (124 mph). A BRABUS multi-disc limited-slip rear differential with a locking rate of 40 percent can further optimize traction and handling..

With a top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph) the four-door coupe version of the BRABUS B63S - 730 bests the production car’s top speed by a whopping 100 kilometers per hour (62 mph). Due to the higher rear-axle load of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake, the top speed for this body style has to be limited to 300 km/h (186 mph) out of consideration for the tires.

To further optimize directional stability well into the regions beyond 300 km/h (187 mph), the BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop a front spoiler for both body styles of the CLS 63 AMG. The aerodynamic-enhancement component attaches to the underside of the front fascia and reduces lift on the front axle.

The view from the side is redefined with sportily styled fender attachments with backlit BRABUS logo. All components are manufactured from especially light yet high-strength genuine carbon fibers for a full-blooded racing look, and are available with a matt or high-gloss surface finish.

The exclusive BRABUS appearance for the new CLS 63 AMG is also in part courtesy of the BRABUS Monoblock wheels with diameters of 19 and 20 inches. The latest innovation in the BRABUS wheel family is the BRABUS Monoblock R "Platinum Edition" forged wheel that combines lightweight construction and maximum strength. The wheel also features innovative styling. Five double spokes are arranged in two planes. The inner spokes are painted a matt gray color; the outer ones are diamond-polished and sealed with a matt clear coat, giving the wheel a highly distinctive look. The largest tires supplied by BRABUS technology partners Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA for the 20-inch alloys come in size 255/30 ZR 20 for the 9Jx20 wheels on the front axle and in size 295/25 ZR 20 for the 10.5Jx20 wheels in the rear.

Exclusive interior design that fulfills any customer request is a BRABUS specialty that comes to life in the company upholstery shop. The lineup for the CLS 63 AMG ranges from attractive accessories to custom-tailored interiors crafted from especially soft, breathable and yet highly durable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara.

Scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo, a speedometer with 400-km/h dial (250 mph) and rear-seat tables attached to the backs of the front seats add custom highlights as do the markedly sporty aluminum components such as pedal pads, door lock pins and shift paddles for the steering wheel. The product portfolio also includes high-quality carbon-fiber inlays for dashboard and center console in any desired color and wood trim in any desired color and grain.

Also available for the top-of-the-line CLS model is a custom-tailored BRABUS multimedia concept – including optional Apple iPad integration.

~ Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS GmbH ~

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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TUNING: Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG by Misha Designs & Couture Customs

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Misha Designs, famous for their high-quality Mercedes-Benz body kits, teamed up with Couture Customs of Scottsdale, Arizona for a joint project. Together they created this show-stopping CLS 63 AMG.

The Misha Designs body kit includes the front and rear bumpers, fenders, hood, side skirts, trunk and roof spoilers. Couture Customs did the custom installation of the kit and painted the car.

The custom work didn’t stop at the exterior of the AMG. Couture spread their handiwork to the interior by adding stylish – and of course custom – stitching and accents. The wheels featured on the CLS are a set of 20” FORGIATO F2.01 in white.

Couture Customs will be opening a new show room at the end of February. Misha Designs is working on adding additional body kits and will soon unveil the new wide body C class kit.

Credits: Misha Designs

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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A new benchmark: Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG as S-Model and with 4MATIC - performance, dynamism and efficiency

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Performance update for the CLS 63 AMG: along with the new E 63 AMG, the latest model upgrade also benefits the CLS 63 AMG in its Coupé and Shooting Brake variants. The S-Model variant of the CLS 63 AMG not only boasts the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all‑wheel drive but also comes with the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine generating a maximum output of 430 kW (585 hp) and up to 800 Nm of torque. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine continues to be the absolute pinnacle of efficiency: the combination of high performance and low fuel consumption remains unrivalled by any other competitor in the segment worldwide. The rear-wheel-drive variant rated at 410 kW (557 hp) and generating 720 Nm of torque is optionally available with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

Mercedes-AMG is also premiering high-performance passenger car models with an all-wheel-drive system geared to driving dynamics. This offers customers even greater scope for individuality and an even broader choice of models. Alongside the successful SUVs – ML 63 AMG, GL 63 AMG, G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG – two passenger car model ranges comprising up to eight unique models with all-wheel drive are now available from Mercedes-AMG in the guise of the E 63 AMG and the CLS 63 AMG. Additional models featuring performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, such as the A 45 AMG and the CLA 45 AMG, will follow this year.

"The S-Models in particular represent the most attractive proposition in the segment," notes Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. "With its superlative power and torque ratings and the new performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the CLS 63 AMG is without parallel in its Coupé and Shooting Brake variants. Our AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine remains the most efficient series production V8 engine in the world. The new, customised model variants provide greater scope than ever for individual solutions."

The world premiere of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake took place at the "Night of the Stars" at the Formula 1 German Grand Prix in July 2012. This unique high-performance vehicle from AMG is a fascinating new embodiment of an innovative vehicle concept. The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake combines performance with style and utility value as a highly appealing alternative for design-oriented automobile enthusiasts. In essence it represents an unprecedented embodiment of a sports car with five seats and a large tailgate.

Overview of the new models for the German market:

Acceleration from a standing start to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds clearly places the CLS 63 AMG S-Model in pole position in the competitive line-up. In addition to the increase in output, this special edge for the S-Model is also attributable in no small part to the performance-oriented all-wheel drive with a power distribution ratio of 33 to 67 percent (front/rear axle). Perfect traction during acceleration effectively avoids slip-induced losses. The top speed stands at 250 km/h (electronically limited).

On the new S-Model the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine generates a maximum output of 430 kW (585 hp) and maximum torque of 800 Nm – representing an increase of 20 kW (28 hp) over the AMG Performance package which was previously available as an option for the Coupé. This enhanced performance and power results from adaptation of the engine application, an increase in peak pressure and a rise in the charge pressure from 0.9 to 1.0 bar. At 410 kW (557 hp) and 720 Nm, the basic model also boasts an increase of 24 kW (32 hp) and 20 Nm over its predecessor.

Despite added power and enhanced performance, all models offer high efficiency, low fuel consumption and low exhaust emissions. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine remains the most efficient series production V8 engine around – with substantially more cubic capacity than its direct competitors. The CLS 63 AMG rated at 410 kW (557 hp) with rear-wheel drive runs on 9.9 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres in accordance with NEDC (231 grams of CO2). The variant with an output of 410 kW and performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive and the S-Model rated at 430 kW (585 hp) with all-wheel drive display only marginally higher fuel consumption, at 10.4 to 10.6 litres per 100 km (243 grams to 248 grams of CO2). As an additional boon, following the implementation of internal engine measures all CLS 63 AMGs meet the requirements of the stringent Euro 6 emissions standard which will not enter into force until 2015.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission for personal set-up

Maximum individuality and customised dynamics – these are the special strengths of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. The four modes – "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual) – offer the driver a personal set-up. In "C" mode, the ECO start/stop function is active and switches off the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is at a standstill. In addition, the transmission characteristics are tangibly soft, with smooth and early gear changes. Second gear is generally used as the starting gear in this mode.

The engine and transmission are far more agile in "S", "S+" and "M" mode; in addition, the ECO start/stop function is deactivated. Partial suppression of the cylinders proves perfect for an emphatic driving style: briefly and precisely interrupting ignition and injection under full load leads to even faster gearshifts with a more emotional sound than before. An automatic double-declutching function for downshifting and the RACE START function are also included as standard with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission.

Performance-oriented all-wheel drive for the ultimate in dynamism

The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive distributes the engine torque at a ratio of 33 to 67 percent (front/rear axle). The rear-biased power distribution provides for signature AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment. The 3-stage ESP® has been tailored specifically to the permanent all-wheel drive system. In "SPORT Handling" mode, the Torque Vectoring Brake performs selective braking intervention on individual wheels in the interests of high agility, thereby avoiding understeering when turning and cornering. In bends, specific brief braking of the inner rear wheel results in defined cornering of the vehicle.
The AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive enhances driving safety and grip on wet or wintry road surfaces. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-disk clutch with a locking effect of 50 Nm which exploits the frictional connection potential of all four wheels to the full on snow and ice in particular.

The technical basis for the all-wheel drive system is provided by a transfer case for the additional power take-off to the driven rear axle. This transfer case is integrated compactly into the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and requires virtually no additional installation space. The torque is transmitted from the power take-off via a propeller shaft to the front axle. Power transmission to the front-left drive shaft is effected via an intermediate shaft which passes through an encapsulated shaft duct in the engine oil pan. The compact and weight-optimised design results in a comparatively low level of additional weight for the all-wheel-drive system of only 70 kilograms.

CLS 63 AMG S-Model with rear-axle differential lock

The CLS 63 AMG S-Model sees Mercedes-AMG going one step further. True to the "Driving Performance" philosophy, a differential lock is fitted on the rear axle. This high-tech package results in a further increase in traction, ultimately leading to even greater driving dynamics and enhanced driving enjoyment, especially on the race track.

All CLS 63 AMG models feature the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically controlled damping system. The front axle employs a steel-spring suspension system, while the rear axle is fitted with a fully load-bearing air suspension system. Pressing the button marked with a shock absorber in the AMG DRIVE UNIT is sufficient to switch the electronics from "Comfort" to "Sport" or "Sport plus". The three-link front suspension has undergone further optimisation for the S-Model and the CLS 63 AMG with all-wheel drive. In conjunction with the newly developed axle components produced in aluminium, these optimisation measures result in markedly enhanced grip and agility combined with a high level of neutrality during fast cornering. The markedly more performance-oriented elastokinematics are exclusive to the S-Model, and offer the driver maximum neutrality and even better feedback and grip at the critical limits. With rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, the CLS 63 AMG's 24 millimetre wider track at the front offers substantially greater stability at high cornering speeds and improved road feel. Increased negative camber on both axles additionally boosts lateral dynamics.

Electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive steering complements the vehicle's set-up to perfection, the direct steering ratio of 14 : 1 providing for extremely agile handling in bends in conjunction with the variable servo assistance geared to the given suspension mode. The CLS 63 AMG is fitted as standard with triple-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey and featuring a high-sheen finish. Tyres in size 255/35 R 19 are fitted to 9.0 x 19 wheels at the front, while the 10 x 19 rear wheels have 285/30 R 19 tyres. Only the high-performance S-Model features exclusive 10-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in matt titanium grey with a high-sheen rim flange.

Optional AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system

The CLS 63 AMG is equipped with an AMG high-performance braking system befitting its status as an AMG automobile. The front and rear axles sport ventilated and perforated brake disks in ample 360 millimetre format. The disks which are subject to particularly high levels of stress and strain on the front axle feature the composite braking technology which has been tried and tested in the field of motor sport. Callipers in a silver painted finish with white AMG lettering and incorporating six pistons (front) and four pistons (rear) provide for spontaneous, fading-resistant deceleration and the shortest stopping distances.

An AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system is exclusively available for the S-Model as an optional feature – recognisable by the even larger 402 millimetre brake disks and the "AMG Carbon Ceramic" logo on callipers sporting a special paint finish. This ceramic system is around 40 percent lighter, providing for reduced unsprung masses and enhanced driving dynamics, agility and ride comfort. The superior hardness of the ceramic brake disks leads to a longer service life and greater resistance to extreme stress and heat.

S-Model with subtly different design features

In terms of exterior design, the CLS 63 AMG S-Model is differentiated from the other models by brake callipers in a red painted finish and the AMG logo on the trunk lid sporting an "S" in contrasting black. When the customer so desires, the interior of the S-Model features grey contrasting stitching on the AMG sports seats, the door centre panels, the door armrests and the centre console. Silver seat belts are also on board in conjunction with a black interior. The rim of the AMG Performance steering wheel in black nappa leather is flattened at the top and bottom and boasts grip areas in Alcantara® and grey contrasting stitching. The front head restraints of the AMG sports seats incorporate exclusive embossed AMG emblems. The AMG instrument cluster in a new design features an "S AMG" logo on the 320 km/h speedometer and red applications. AMG door sill panels illuminated in white round off the exclusive range of equipment and appointments.

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system

A very special highlight among the optional equipment and appointments for all CLS variants is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, developed by Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes‑ AMG together with renowned Danish audio specialist Bang & Olufsen. The sound system also offers playback in Dolby Digital 5.1 quality and enables an exclusive audio experience of the very highest standard. This performance is made possible by a 1200 W amplifier and 14 high-end loudspeakers with neodymium driver in conjunction with precision distribution of the audio signals by the sound processor. This integrated digital sound processor (DSP) enables the driver to select a special B&O sound menu via COMAND. Front, central or rear sound setups can be selected in True Image™ mode, resulting in an authentic audio experience in the selected listening position. Various sound modes are additionally stored in the "Sound Mode" menu, enabling selection between a "Reference" high-end studio sound and a surround option. While "Reference" focuses on an authentic, unadulterated rendering of the artist's performance, the special surround sound mode is particularly ideal for live or concert music, creating a unique panoramic sound in the vehicle without compromising the natural character of the recording.
The illuminated 50 W tweeters featuring Acoustic Lens Technology in the mirror triangles add special highlights. High-quality loudspeaker covers in "silver chrome" bearing the Bang & Olufsen logo additionally allude to the exclusive character of the high-end surround sound system.

designo wooden luggage compartment floor in American cherry

A further highlight for all models of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake is the designo wooden luggage compartment floor. This luggage compartment floor is made of open-pore American cherry wood, a decorative fine wood traditionally used in superior interior design work, high-quality furniture and exclusive ship outfitting applications. Selected veneer sheets are glued and pressed together by hand in cross-bonded layers to achieve high dimensional stability. The blanks are milled into their precise shape using a CNC machine, and the surfaces are sanded to a smooth finish, waterproofed and oiled to highlight the natural beauty of the wood.

Dark fumed oak inlays, precision-cut in narrow three-millimetre strips using laser technology, lend a definitive finishing touch to the design of the luggage compartment floor. In combination with rubber strips, the extruded aluminium rails with brushed surfaces not only protect the wood surface but also have an anti-slip effect.

The market launch of the CLS 63 AMG with rear-wheel drive will begin in April 2013, with the all-wheel-drive CLS 63 AMG and the CLS 63 AMG S-Model following in June.

* Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH *

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