2011 Mercedes Benz CLS AMG Spied Completely
These are the latest spy pictures of AMGs range-topping version of the new Mercedes CLS.
The saloon is set to be revealed at the Paris motor show in September; an estate version will be launched at next weeks Beijing motor show.
Codenamed C218, the new CLS sits on the same underpinnings as the current E-class, with a 20mm longer wheelbase than todays model along with a corresponding increase in length, taking it to around 4950mm. But as with the first-gen CLS, the new car is more about style than interior space.
The AMG CLS will use a new turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 engine. Set to replace the existing naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8, it produces 537bhp, an increase of 30bhp over todays model.
And an even more powerful version of the same engine will be offered as part of a performance package, with 563bhp – enough muscle to fire the new four-door to 60mph in just 4.2sec.
The AMG CLS will use the seven-speed MCT (multi-clutch transmission) unit that features in the E63 AMG.
The dynamic improvements brought to the new E-class should be reflected in the new CLS. The two cars share the same chassis and steering system.
Inside, the car receives a unique dashboard and interior trim to separate it from the more formal E-class saloon. The increase in exterior dimensions and longer wheelbase have created more room inside, and luggage capacity goes up to 530 litres.
