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2011 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class preview

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Michel Deslauriers
On sale in November, new engine for CL63 AMG
AMG’s hand-built, 6.2-litre naturally-aspirated engines is one of our favourites here at Auto123.com. It produces from 451 to 563 horsepower, depending on which engine bay it was dropped in. In addition, it provides each AMG it equips with a menacing exhaust roar, perfect for giving us an always-welcome rush of adrenaline.

2011 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)

Our admiration turned into worry when we learned AMG was to gradually replace the 6.2L V8 by a smaller engine. Our worries were futile.

The new AMG V8 features a displacement of 5,461 cc, four variable overhead camshafts, 32 valves, direct injection and intercooled twin turbochargers. In the CL63, this engine develops 536 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, and if you choose the optional AMG Performance Package, output climbs to 563 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. The 7-speed, multi-clutch automated sequential is the carryover transmission.

Compared to the 6.2L V8, the 5.5L unit boasts more power and torque, better fuel economy and less exhaust emissions. Zero to 60 mph (96 km/h) is cleared in 4.4 seconds. Can’t complain about that now, can we?

2011 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)

The electronic driving mode system gets a new setting called Controlled Efficiency (labelled “C”). When selected, the CL63 gets a relaxed throttle response, always launches in second gear and upshifts as early as possible—6th gear is reached at as low as 60 km/h, according to Mercedes—which improves fuel economy.
Michel Deslauriers
Michel Deslauriers
Automotive expert
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