Going by the name CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake, neither it nor its more mundane cousin will be offered in the U.S.
That’s a shame, as the CLS Shooting Brake and CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake are not only great-looking vehicles but they’re also very practical and compete in a segment with very few alternatives.
Though most of its internals are shared with the CLS63 AMG four-door coupe, the CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake is unique from the windshield back. In particular, the car has a longer wheelbase, providing extra legroom for backseat passengers and additional storage space--up to 54.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Special Edition 1 model delivers 557 horsepower
Drive comes from AMG’s latest twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8 channeling a healthy 525 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque through the rear wheels. A limited ‘Edition 1’ model ups the output to 557 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of stump-pulling torque, and comes with a host of other exclusive extras.
Both versions offer superb driving performance: accelerating from 0-60 mph takes 4.4 and 4.3 seconds respectively, and the top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Both versions also get AMG’s SPEEDSHIFT seven-speed automatic, which comes with a trio of modes to choose from including sport (S), manual (M) and controlled efficiency (C). The latter helps save fuel by relying on an engine stop-start system, smoother transmission mapping and earlier shifts. Automatic rev-matching and a RACE START launch control function are also included, making even novice drivers look like the pros.
Handling is improved over the regular CLS Shooting Brake thanks to the latest version of the AMG Ride Control sports suspension system, as well as AMG-specific electro-hydraulic steering. Once again, drivers have a trio of options to choose from, ranging from "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport plus" modes.
However, just in case the transmission and suspension adjustments weren't enough, the CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake also has three settings for its electronic stability system.
Ultimate stopping power from carbon ceramic discs
The wheels are 19-inch light alloys and stopping power comes from standard 360-mm ventilated and perforated brake discs at all four corners. For extra braking performance, AMG offers a set of carbon ceramic discs.
To further improve the performance of the vehicle, AMG offers through its Performance Studio a number of enhancements including a carbon fiber aero package, a rear axle differential lock and the aforementioned carbon ceramic brake discs.
When it comes to luxury, the CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake doesn’t disappoint--it's still a Mercedes-Benz after all. LED headlamps are fitted as standard, along with quality materials, Nappa leather trim and an analogue clock featuring an IWC design.
An AMG DRIVE UNIT with E-SELECT selector lever located in the center console--a special feature exclusive to AMG--allows the driver to select from all the chassis adjustments, while at the rear of the car the luggage compartment can be trimmed in some very tasteful wood finishes. On top of this, aluminum rails, manufactured using an extrusion molding process, have a brushed finish as well as rubber inserts, and not only help to protect the wooden floor but also feature anti-slip properties.
Sales of the new 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake commence in Europe this October with the official world debut taking place one month prior at the Paris Auto Show.
2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake
