2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Montrose CO

November 3, 2009   By Brian Alexander, Content Editor



2009 Mercedes-Benz
CLS-Class
DriverSide Overview
AMG is more than just your typical performance-based marketing acronym. While some manufacturers are content fitting their factory-tuned models with some sporty rims, stiffer suspension, a few body panels and a handful of extra ponies, Mercedes-Benz takes a more hardcore approach. If you’ve ever experienced one the Affalterbach-based tuning specialist’s magnificent cars, the sight of an AMG badge probably brings flashbacks of clouds of tire smoke, sensational acceleration and lurid, endless powerslides. The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is no exception to the formula either – in fact if anything, it reinforces the AMG stereotype. Equipped with the first engine developed solely by AMG, it’s an absolute belter with chiseled good looks to match. Four-door practicality is blended with coupe styling, adding to the desirability of this car. Make no mistake about it, this is one snarling, angry, capable and menacingly quick four-door coupe.








What's to Like
The brutal pace of the CLS63 is pure addiction, a perfect fit for its sinister stance sitting on 19-inch, triple-spoke wheels. It is impressive that such a maddeningly fast car can maintain a compliant, easy ride around town.

What's Not to Like
The distinct lack of unrestricted Autobahn in North America make the upper limits of the CLS63’s performance unreachable. Your neighbors are likely to complain about a certain “thunderous, infuriating cacophony” whenever you drive down the street.

The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
Effortless, insane pace is the CLS’s specialty. The exhaust note has been finely tuned and firing up the massive 6.2-liter AMG engine emits a bass-filled exhaust note that is as addictive as it is intimidating. The engine sounds fantastic off-throttle too, emitting a series of pops and barks on its way down the revs. Strangely, there is little to no induction noise, proving the CLS63 is well insulated from the exterior environment. The V8’s 507 horsepower sees it to 60 mph in an incredibly brief 4.3 seconds after which it will slam straight into its 155 mph speed limiter. Handling is superb thanks to accurate steering, especially when the suspension is set to its firmest mode, the semi-active air suspension working to minimize any body roll induced by lateral Gs through corners. The seats are feature dynamic side bolsters which inflate through corners, keeping you centered. Amazingly enough for a 4,210 lb car, the AMG feels nimble and the power is mind-altering at any rpm, really coming alive for the final slug from 5,500-7,000 rpm.

Engine and Drivetrain
The CLS63’s handmade, 6.2-liter V8 makes 507 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, and is capable of revving to a ludicrously lofty 7200 rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via an AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic s...

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