Spy photographers have spotted what appears to be the first prototype for a Mercedes-Benz CL-Class hybrid testing in Europe. On the outside, the car looks very much like a regular CL, except for the unusual components protruding from the hood on this test car.

According to our sources, BMW hybrid prototypes have similar instrumentation coming out of the hood, albeit cloaked by fake "powerdomes."

Not much is known at this time of the CL hybrid, but the big Benz coupe will probably be powered by the same unit as the hybrid S400 sedan.

If making small, efficient cars more efficient saves a little bit of gas and the associated pollution, then surely making big cars more efficient is even more effective. This logic seems to be resulting in more big hybrids out there. Lexus has the first luxury V8 hybrid with its LS 460h and also offers hybrid versions of its RX SUV and GS sports sedan.

A recent report provided a timeframe for the arrival of a hybrid 7-series from BMW, and many other automakers are also gaining interest in the segment. From the high-performance Fisker Karma to the hulking Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, it's clear gas-electric powertrains aren't limited to economy cars.

The current Mercedes-Benz CL Class was launched back in the autumn of 2006, and the two-door luxury coupe is quite the looker. With a range of safety features, its new Mercedes style, and performance to boot this coupe seems to have it all.

LSD doors from Germany know better though and now offer instant street cred by installing a set of wing doors. The wing doors can be installed on the original door mouting points and are tested for safety with side-crash test and have the German TUV parts certificate.

The LSD wing doors open outwards by a 30 degree angle and then swing upwards, without any great exertion. According to the press release the doors are 'ideal for all fans of unusual tuning' and we happen to agree.

With a design perfected through an immaculate sense of style, highly exclusive appointments and cutting-edge technology, the extensively updated Mercedes-Benz CL-Class underscores its claim to supremacy as the summit of automotive refinement. The entirely re-designed 320 kW (435 hp) V8 biturbo engine of the CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY, with a combined consumption of 9.5 litres premium-grade petrol per 100 km, opens a new dimension of efficiency in the luxury coupé category. Its NEDC figures show savings of up to 23 percent over its predecessor model, CO2 emissions having dropped from 288 grams per kilometre to 224 grams per kilometre. This significant reduction is achieved thanks to the newly-developed BlueDIRECT technology with third-generation spray-guided direct injection, with the contribution of the specially-designed BlueEFFICIENCY package of the CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY. The package includes, among other things, energy-efficient control of alternator, fuel pump, air-conditioning compressor and power-assisted steering system, as well as the ECO start/stop function. It also features the use of low rolling resistance tyres and the energy-optimised Active Body Control system. In addition, the Mercedes-Benz developers equipped the CL-Class with state-of-the-art multimedia technology, thus helping this model, produced with a high proportion of hand-finished work, to retain its position as the epitome of quality in its class.

With the new generation of the CL-Class, the Stuttgart-based automaker focuses on fuel consumption and exhaust gas emissions in the exclusive high-end segment, too. According to Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG: “The CL is the ideal ambassador for our brand. It combines in a particular degree those things that characterise Mercedes-Benz: fascination, perfection and responsibility. And with the new generation we have gone a step further, too – especially in the realm of efficiency. But in terms of design, safety, comfort and output, too – the CL shows the way forward: simply follow Mercedes”

In addition, a combination of cutting-edge camera and radar-based assistance systems unique in the luxury coupé segment, including the innovation of the Active Lane Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist systems, makes of the CL-Class a "thinking" partner of the driver. The modified Active Body Control (ABC) with crosswind stabilisation system and the Direct-Steer system also contribute to enhancing safety and driving enjoyment.

Design: a muscular, self-assured presence

The exterior appearance of the new CL-Class generation is characterised by the terse profile of the bonnet, the dynamic V-shape radiator grille and the curving headlamps – design details that discreetly but effectively emphasise the car's elegant yet powerful lines.

The front bumper, too, presents a new design with three air intake openings and a chrome trim strip. An LED strip with chrome surround for the daytime running lights is elegantly integrated in the side openings for the brake cooling air. With their standard-fit Intelligent Light System (ILS) and Adaptive Highbeam Assist, the headlamps offer state-of-the-art illumination technology. The latest LED technology in the turn indicators and position marker lamps rounds off the car's advanced image. The rear of the vehicle is characterised by the newly-designed tail lamps.

New V8 bi-turbo engine with innovative technology

The new-generation CL-Class also assumes a pioneering role in the drive system sector. Under the bonnet of the CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY and CL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY a new V8 biturbo engine with BlueDIRECT technology delivers its impressive power. With its 4663 cc displacement, the eight-cylinder engine produces 320 kW (435 hp) so that despite 0.8 litres less displacement, it is still around 12 percent more powerful than its predecessor, which had an output of 285 kW (388 hp). At the same time, torque was raised from 530 Nm to 700 Nm – an increase of 32 percent. Combined consumption in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), on the other hand, drops by 23 percent to 9.5 litres of premium petrol per 100 kilometres for the rear-wheel drive version. CO2 emissions consequently sink from 288 grams per kilometre to 224 grams per kilometre. The CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY requires a mere 4.9 seconds to accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h (previous model: 5.4 seconds). Summing up: the CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY is significantly more agile, torquey and thriftier than its predecessor.

The BlueDIRECT technology package of the V8 biturbo includes a series of new developments, unique in their combination. Worthy of mention among these is the third-generation spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors and multi-spark ignition with up to four ignition sparks within a millisecond. Together both enable an innovative combustion process called "homogenous split". Other factors contributing to the exemplary low fuel consumption continue to be the consistent use of friction-optimised pistons, piston rings and cylinder barrels, the on-demand control of oil pump and the new three-phase thermal management in the coolant circuit. The luxury coupé's package includes the ECO start/stop function and alternator control in accordance with the handling situation and on-board voltage with kinetic energy recuperation in overrun mode.

The CL 600, with its 380 kW (517 hp) 12-cylinder biturbo engine remains the top-of-the-line model: it accelerates the luxury coupé from a standstill to 100 km/h in breath-taking 4.6 seconds and now also complies with the Euro 5 emissions control standard.

A unique combination of driver-assistance systems

The new-generation CL-Class consolidates its position as an automotive masterwork and a technology platform of the Stuttgart-based company with the most advanced assistance and protection systems. These highly perceptive assistants convert the Mercedes model into a "thinking" partner that can see, feel and react instantly if it detects a hazard, acting autonomously to prevent accidents or to mitigate their effects. The trailblazing driver assistance systems in the CL-Class are based on state-of-the-art radar, camera and sensor technology.

Thus, in the new-generation CL-Class Active Lane Keeping Assist celebrates its premiere (at the same time as in the S-Class). If the vehicle threatens to cross a continuous lane marking line, the system actuates an electric motor in the steering wheel, causing it to vibrate briefly – giving the driver a discreet but effective warning hint to countersteer immediately. The active system springs into action if the Mercedes coupé unintentionally crosses a continuous lane marking line to the right or to the left. In this case, it intervenes by gently braking the wheels of the opposite side of the car, helping the driver to stay in the lane. In order to do this Active Lane Keeping Assist avails itself of the ESP® Electronic Stability Program.

Active Lane-Keeping Assist evaluates information provided by a camera mounted on the inside of the windscreen. It identifies the contrast between the road surface and the lane marking lines. In addition to this, using radar the system scans the side of the roadway for crash barriers and other roadway edge markings. This Mercedes assistance system also evaluates the driver's actions and can thus reliably determine whether the car is departing from the lane intentionally or not. For this reason, there is no warning if the driver accelerates hard just before overtaking or when accessing a motorway, or if he brakes hard or steers into a curve.

Targeted brake actuation: active Blind Spot Assist

A further innovation Mercedes-Benz offers for the CL-Class is active Blind Spot Assist, a system that makes use of a multi-stage warning concept. If it detects that a change of lane would be too dangerous, it warns the driver by displaying a red triangle in the glass of the exterior mirror. Close-range radar sensors monitor the area immediately to the side and to the rear of the car. If the driver disregards this warning and, for example, actuates the turn indicator, an audible warning also sounds. If the driver continues to ignore the warnings and comes dangerously close to a vehicle in the neighbouring lane, a novel feature of the system acts: a corrective braking intervention via ESP® on the wheels of the opposite side of the vehicle. This causes a yaw movement about the car's vertical axis due to the unequal distribution of the braking forces. If despite this course correction an accident cannot be avoided, the active Blind Spot Assist system can reduce the consequences of a collision through the brake actuation.

Assistants to see and be seen better

Adaptive Main Beam Assist is another standard-fit system featured by the CL-Class. This camera-based system can recognise oncoming vehicles or vehicles ahead with their lights on, and then controls the headlamps to ensure the best possible beam range without dazzling other road users. In addition, Mercedes-Benz offers the Night View Assist PLUS system for the CL-Class, featuring a special infra-red camera for pedestrian detection: as soon as the system detects pedestrians on the road ahead, these are highlighted additionally in the display, in order to catch the driver's attention better.

The images supplied by the windscreen camera are also used by the new, optional Speed Limit Assist, which recognises speed limit signs in passing and shows the relevant speed limit in the central display and on the navigation system's map display (standard for CL 600).

For the new-generation CL-Class, Mercedes-Benz has also improved the long and medium-range radar used by Brake Assist (BAS PLUS) and DISTRONIC PLUS proximity cruise control.

An "electronic crumple zone": the PRE-SAFE® Brake

Mercedes-Benz also offers another radar based system for the luxury coupé as a component of the driver assistance package PLUS in the form of the PRE-SAFE® Brake. If the driver is distracted and fails to recognise the imminent danger of a rear-end collision or the warning signal of an assistance system, this system can intervene and brake the vehicle independently. If the driver fails to react even after automatic, partial braking action, this most recent development stage of the PRE-SAFE® Brake activates the maximum braking pressure around 0.6 seconds before what it now recognises as an unavoidable collision - an emergency braking action that can significantly mitigate the severity of the impact. The PRE-SAFE® Brake thus acts as a kind of "electronic crumple zone".

Warns driver of overtiredness: ATTENTION ASSIST

Overtiredness is one of the most common causes of accidents. This is why Mercedes experts have developed the ATTENTION ASSIST system which forms part of the standard equipment of the new generation CL-Class. As the vehicle is being driven, the system continuously evaluates more than 70 different parameters in order to identify driver drowsiness and provide a warning before the dangerous microsleep phase begins. Observing the driver’s steering behaviour has proved to be a particularly strong indicator: several years of practical research by Mercedes-Benz have shown that drowsy drivers make minor steering errors which they often correct very rapidly in a characteristic way. This steering behaviour is recognised by a special steering angle sensor. Observing the driver's eyes cannot always provide conclusive evidence of sleep since many drivers can experience micro-sleep with their eyes open.

Active Body Control reduces the effect of a crosswind

The CL-Class also meets the highest standards in terms of driving dynamics and agility. This is in part thanks to Direct-Steer, with a steering ratio that varies with the steering angle, and modified Active Body Control (ABC) with crosswind stabilisation (standard for CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY and CL 600). This latest stage in active body development modifies the wheel load distribution via the ABC spring struts within milliseconds, depending on crosswind direction and intensity, to the extent that it can largely compensate the effects of the crosswind.

The Active Body Control suspension system with which Mercedes-Benz ushered in new dimensions of driving dynamics in the preceding C 215 model series in 1999, is unique worldwide as it not only regulates roll, but pitching and squatting movements as well, ensuring a perfect harmony of comfort and handling stability. Since the introduction of this innovative system, engineers in Sindelfingen have continuously improved on it, so that eleven years later it still marks the summit of automotive engineering. In addition to crosswind stabilisation, the new suspension features an energy-optimised hydraulic pump that takes part of the burden off the engine, contributing towards reducing fuel consumption.

Additional safety and agility at the physical limits is provided by the standard-fit Torque Vectoring Brake in the new-generation CL-Class – targeted, one-sided braking intervention at the inside rear wheel when cornering. This enables the luxury coupé to turn into the bend under precise control with even greater agility.

On-board infotainment: the most advanced multimedia technology

In line with its serene character and claim to be a technological masterwork, the CL-Class also sets standards where onboard infotainment is concerned. Thus, the Stuttgart automotive manufacturer equips its flagship model with the new SPLITVIEW technology for the COMAND control and display system centrally located in the centre console (standard for the CL 600 in conjunction with Front Seat Entertainment package). This innovative display concept allows the driver and front passenger to view different contents simultaneously on one and the same screen. While the driver e.g. uses the map-based navigation system, the front passenger can be watching a film on DVD.

The standard COMAND control and display system with Bluetooth®, USB and SD card interfaces offers customers the possibility of exporting their stored data to other vehicles and multimedia devices. It is also possible to transfer and update navigation data. In the glove compartment Mercedes-Benz integrates as optional equipment the Media Interface – an interface for mobile audio and video devices – devices such as the iPod® and every other possible customer device.

The optional Navigation package with COMAND APS (standard for the CL 600) features a Europe-wide navigation system whose data are stored on a 40-Gigabyte hard disc, enabling extremely rapid route calculation. Another factor contributing to a high level of navigation comfort is the detailed three-dimension map display including updates free of charge for three years. For musical entertainment COMAND APS provides a radio, a CD/DVD player with MP3 function, an equalizer with speed-dependent volume control and the MUSIC REGISTER with a 7.2 GB hard disc which stores around 2500 digital music files in MP3, AAC or WMA format. The system recognises music files played on CD, DVD or from the MUSIC REGISTER using its stored Gracenote® database, and shows the title, album and performer in the colour display. Another new function, Music Search, enables CL-Class drivers and passengers to search SD memory cards, USB sticks, CDs and DVDs for specific music titles and performers.

The Navigation package also includes the latest-generation LINGUATRONIC voice control system that controls the navigation, telephone and audio devices via whole-word input. Benefit: the driver no longer needs to spell out his commands but simply speaks the corresponding words as whole words when entering the destination or choosing a radio station or a music title from the Music Register, or when calling up a name from the phone book.

The further developed surround sound system with Discrete Logic7® technology developed by Mercedes-Benz together with audio specialists Harman Kardon® delivers an outstanding performance with three-dimensional sound as a natural 360-degree musical experience for all passengers of the CL-Class. Mercedes-Benz offers the surround sound system together with SPLITVIEW and a six-disc DVD changer as part of the Entertainment Package (standard for CL 600).

Interior: carefully selected materials and first-class finish

In the interior, too, Mercedes-Benz developers and designers perfected the CL-Class, paying careful attention to detail. A total of four different kinds of fine wood open up the possibilities for perfectly matched material and colour concepts according to your personal taste: apart from light and dark high-gloss burr walnut, there is black ash and high-gloss brown poplar (CL 600). Another particularity: in line with the central importance awarded to the concept of sustainability within the Mercedes-Benz corporate philosophy, the CL-Class employs only European wood from renewable forestry sources. Most of the wood parts are hand-made and matched individually for colour and grain by experienced craftsmen.

The seat covers of the new CL-Class are of the most exquisite quality. For this luxury model there are two different kinds of leather available which thanks to their low pre-tensioning and consequent wrinkle effect appear supple and comfortable from the very first glance. There is a choice of five tasteful colour combinations for the vehicle interior: black/black, savannah beige/cashmere beige, sahara beige/black, and the novel combinations alpaca grey/basalt grey and aubergine/black.

The multifunction steering wheel of the CL-Class has also been modified by the Mercedes-Benz designers: in future the rim and airbag module are lined with soft nappa leather as standard. The new, flatter airbag module also lends a sporty touch to the multifunction steering wheel covered in leather sewn with sophisticated double stitching.

Apart from this, Mercedes-Benz makes more use of light as a styling element in the vehicle interior. In future customers who specify the optional ambient lighting (standard for CL 600) have a choice between three lighting moods: solar (amber), neutral (white) and polar (ice blue).

Tradition: an exclusive line of ancestors

The new generation CL-Class continues the great tradition of Mercedes-Benz coupés, which reaches back to the legendary supercharged cars of the 1920s and '30s. Since the 1950s in particular, the brand with the three-pointed star has produced an uninterrupted series of exclusive two-door cars which combine sophisticated design with trailblazing technology – every model an automotive classic. The W 188 model series 300 S Coupé which entered series production in 1952 marked the beginning. A contemporary report called it the "measure of what it is possible to achieve in automotive engineering".

This statement has retained its full validity for all subsequent models, right down to the current CL-Class of model series C 216, because the luxury coupés from Mercedes-Benz featured - apart from their timeless design and the highest level of comfort - trailblazing innovations in automotive technology. Thus it was that in 1961 the 220 SE Coupé was the first series-production Mercedes-Benz to be equipped with disc brakes. In 1995 the ESP Electronic Stability Program celebrated its world premiere in the S 600 Coupé of model series C 140, and in 1999 the Active Body Control suspension system was introduced for the first time in the CL-Class, model series C 215. With the PRE-SAFE® brake a further technological innovation made its debut in a large Mercedes-Benz coupé. In the new CL-Class generation, two new developments, Active Lane Keeping Assist and the Active Blind Spot Assist, will help prevent accidents or reduce their severity.

Exciting cutting-edge technology from Affalterbach: the Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG and the CL 63 AMG are to benefit from a completely newly developed powertrain. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine with a peak output of up to 420 kW (571 hp) and a torque of up to 900 Nm, in combination with the unique AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, contributes towards a considerable reduction in consumption and emissions, while at the same time increasing maximum power and torque. With a fuel consumption of 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined), the new high-performance cars not only undercut their direct competitors – they are also more than 25 percent more economical in terms of their fuel consumption than the previous models with naturally aspirated V8 engine.

The Mercedes-Benz CL 63 AMG also features a new cutting-edge look: thanks to a new design the Coupé has an even more athletic and confident appearance. The inclusion of the Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brake and crosswind stabilisation as standard has resulted in another leap forward in terms of agility and active handling safety. New optional extras now available include Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind-Spot Assist. The exclusive V12 models - the S 65 AMG and CL 65 AMG - now produce 463 kW (630 hp) instead of the previous 450 kW (612 hp).

The S 63 AMG and CL 63 AMG mark the start of a new chapter in the "AMG Performance 2015" drive strategy: Mercedes-AMG is continuing this impressive story and is meeting its promise to continuously reduce both the fuel consumption and emissions of new models with the new engine/transmission combination – while also reaching new heights with the central AMG brand value of "performance".

According to Ola Källenius, head of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "We are heading into a new era with the S 63 AMG and CL 63 AMG: for the first time we have combined spray-guided direct petrol injection with biturbocharging and the start/stop system. Together with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, we have reduced both fuel consumption and emissions significantly – while at the same time increasing output and torque."

Together with the unique AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, the new AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine will play a significant role in the Mercedes-AMG model strategy over the coming year. The new engine / transmission combination marks a further milestone in the successful history of Mercedes-AMG, which began back in 1967.

Direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion and biturbocharging

Designated internally as the M 157, the new V8 engine is a prime example of efficiency and features a whole host of impressive technological highlights: for the first time AMG is taking advantage of direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion and piezo injectors. This technology enables improved fuel economy thanks to higher thermodynamic efficiency, which in turns leads to lower exhaust emissions. AMG has combined the spray-guided combustion with biturbocharging. Other highlights of the innovative, original eight-cylinder engine from Affalterbach include full aluminium crankcase, four-valve technology with variable intake valve timing, air/water charge air cooling, generator management and also standard Controlled Efficiency start/stop function. Compared with the AMG 6.3-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with a displacement of 6208 cc, the new AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine achieves all this with a displacement of 5461 cc.

This high-tech package leads to a high output and torque yield, together with fuel consumption figures that are unrivalled in the competitive line-up. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine develops a peak output of 400 kW (544 hp) and maximum torque of 800 Nm. In conjunction with the AMG Performance package these figures are increased to 420 kW (571 hp) and 900 Nm. A look at the performance diagrams shows that no other engine in this output class achieves the figures delivered by the new AMG biturbo. The major difference between the two performance classes is an increase in the maximum charge pressure from 1.0 to 1.3 bar. In addition, the engine cover of models with the AMG Performance package comes in high-quality carbon fibre.

Quantum leap: fuel consumption reduced by more than 25 percent

With an NEDC fuel consumption of only 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres, the S 63 AMG and CL 63 AMG are 3.9 litres more economical than the preceding models powered by the naturally aspirated AMG 6.3-litre V8 – despite an increase in output of 14 kW (19 hp) resp. 34 kW (46 hp) and in torque of 170 and 270 Nm. Engine specialists consider this achieved fuel saving of more than 25 percent to be nothing less than a quantum leap. CO2 emissions have likewise been significantly reduced: at 244 grams per kilometre, the figure is almost 30 percent lower than for the previous model. Both performance variants have identical fuel consumption and CO2 figures. As such, the new AMG models are not only considerably better than all their competitors, but also more fuel-efficient than much less powerful cars in this segment.

Sports car-level performance

At the same time the S 63 AMG and CL 63 AMG deliver superior performance at sports car level: both V8 models accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, and have an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. The 100 km/h mark is reached in just 4.4 seconds with the AMG Performance package, with the top speed increased to an electronically limited 300 km/h.

It is not only the unrivalled torque delivery of this turbocharged eight-cylinder that makes the heart beat faster, as the agile responsiveness with no irritating charger delay leads to an effortlessness and dynamism previously unknown in this output class. All perfectly matched by the powerful, sonorous engine note. Moreover, this AMG high-performance engine naturally meets all the requirements with respect to smooth, quiet running and the comfort on long journeys that is to be expected of a Mercedes.

Key data at a glance:
S 63 AMG and CL 63 AMG
Displacement 5461 cc
Bore x stroke 98.0 x 90.5 mm
Compression ratio 10.0:1
Output 400 kW (544 hp) at 5500 rpm 420 kW (571 hp) at 5500 rpm*
Max. torque 800 Nm at 2000 - 4500 rpm 900 Nm at 2250 - 3750 rpm* at 2500 - 3750 rpm*
Engine weight (dry) 204 kg
Power/weight ratio 0.41 kg/hp 0.39 kg/hp*
Fuel consumption NEDC combined 10.5 l/100 km
CO2 emissions 244 g/km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h 4.5 s 4.4 s*
Top speed** 250 km/h 300 km/h*

* with AMG Performance package; ** electronically limited

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission

Power is transferred by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission used exclusively by AMG, which is already familiar from the SL 63 AMG and E 63 AMG and combines high emotional appeal with outstanding driving dynamics, impressive comfort and a high level of efficiency. The wet start-up clutch replaces a conventional torque converter, and helps to save fuel. The exemplary fuel economy is also in large measure due to the standard start/stop function. This system is active in the transmission's Controlled Efficiency ("C") mode, and switches the eight-cylinder engine off when the car comes to a stop. In "C" mode the sports saloon and coupé always start off in second gear, and the transmission shifts to the next, higher gears at a decidedly early stage. With its high torque at low engine speeds, the V8 engine encourages a smooth, effortless driving style.

The eight-cylinder biturbo engine also features the generator management system familiar from the E 63 AMG: whenever the engine is on the overrun or when braking, kinetic energy is used to charge the battery rather than being wasted as heat in the usual way. In all other operating modes a combination of onboard network and generator management enables the generator to be kept at a low voltage. This reduces the load on the engine and makes for fuel savings of around 0.15 litres per 100 kilometres according to the NEDC standard, and up to 0.2 l/100 km in city traffic with its frequent overrun and braking phases.

Engine production – tradition of hand-built excellence

Like all other AMG engines, the new eight-cylinder biturbo unit is assembled by hand in the AMG engine shop in Affalterbach. Highly-qualified technicians assemble the M 157 according to the "one man, one engine" philosophy, maintaining the very strictest quality standards. This painstaking care is attested to by the signature on the characteristic AMG engine plate.

Long tradition of powerful AMG V8 engines

Powerful eight-cylinder engines are an inseparable part of AMG's corporate history. Established in 1967, the company immediately caused a stir with the 300 SEL 6.8 AMG which succeeded in taking second place at the 24-hour races at Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium). The AMG racing saloon was technically based on the Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3. With an engine output of 184 kW (250 hp) at 4000 rpm and a top speed of 220 km/h, this luxury V8 saloon was Germany's fastest regular production car at the time. Classic tuning as well as an enlarged displacement from 6330 to 6835 cc resulted in an increase in output to 315 kW (428 hp) at 5500 rpm and in torque from 500 to 608 Nm.

A further milestone in the AMG engine story was the M 117, the first eight-cylinder unit with four-valve technology. With a displacement of 5.6 litres, 265 kW (360 hp) and 510 Nm of torque, this V8 accelerated the Mercedes-Benz 300 CE 5.6 AMG to a top speed of 303 km/h in 1987. This made the coupé the fastest German car in series production, and American fans reverently christened it "The Hammer".

Another important engine in the history of AMG was the supercharged AMG 5.5-litre V8 introduced in 2001: the M 113 K developed an output of up to 428 kW (582 hp) and torque of 800 Nm. The supercharged AMG 5.5-litre V8 in the SLR McLaren of 2003 was even more powerful – the M 155 developed up to 478 kW (650 hp) and 820 Nm. 2005 saw the debut of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine; depending on the model, the naturally aspirated, high-revving M 156 developed up to 386 kW (525 hp) and 630 Nm. Exclusively reserved for the new SLS AMG, the likewise 6.3-litre M 159 has a maximum output of 420 kW (571 hp) and maximum torque of 650 Nm.

Numerous victories in the "International Engine of the Year Awards"

The supercharged AMG 5.5-litre V8, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 and the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo were all able to win the Best Performance Engine category in the International Engine of the Year Awards. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 also won in 2009 and 2010 in the "Above 4 litres" class.
CL 63 AMG with new look and attractive standard equipment

The new CL 63 AMG now has an even more athletic and confident appearance. The bonnet, headlamps, radiator grille, bicolour tail lamps and the newly designed AMG bodystyling all add more dynamism. The "V8 BITURBO" lettering on the front mudguards also makes for an eye-catching touch. Also featuring a new look are the AMG triple-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium grey and with a high-sheen finish, and fitted with 255/40 and 275/40 R 19 tyres. New in the interior are the AMG sports steering wheel with silver-coloured aluminium shift paddles and specially shaped grip area covered with perforated nappa leather, as well as the "AMG V8 BITURBO" start screen in the AMG instrument cluster. As a new optional extra, SPLITVIEW is also available for the COMAND multimedia system.

With immediate effect, standard equipment on the CL 63 AMG now includes the Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brake and crosswind stabilisation. With its variable ratio depending on steering angle, the Direct-Steer system helps to ensure a more direct response when cornering, and therefore more responsive handling – in brief: enhanced driving pleasure at the wheel of the Mercedes-AMG CL-Class. Thanks to brief direct application of the brakes on the vehicle's inner rear wheel when cornering, the Torque Vectoring Brake, meanwhile, helps to ensure that the V8 coupé corners precisely and under control at all times. The Torque Vectoring Brake is an additional feature of the Electronic Stability Program ESP® and not only noticeably improves responsiveness but also active handling safety in critical conditions.

The AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC) now also provides crosswind stabilisation as an additional function: thanks to this feature, influences caused by crosswinds are compensated for, or – in the case of strong gusts – reduced to a minimum. ABC compensates against the effect of crosswinds by adjusting the wheel load distribution within milliseconds, using the yaw-rate and lateral acceleration sensors of the ESP®.

CL 63 AMG with new look and attractive standard equipment

The new CL 63 AMG now has an even more athletic and confident appearance. The bonnet, headlamps, radiator grille, bicolour tail lamps and the newly designed AMG bodystyling all add more dynamism. The "V8 BITURBO" lettering on the front mudguards also makes for an eye-catching touch. Also featuring a new look are the AMG triple-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium grey and with a high-sheen finish, and fitted with 255/40 and 275/40 R 19 tyres. New in the interior are the AMG sports steering wheel with silver-coloured aluminium shift paddles and specially shaped grip area covered with perforated nappa leather, as well as the "AMG V8 BITURBO" start screen in the AMG instrument cluster. As a new optional extra, SPLITVIEW is also available for the COMAND multimedia system.

With immediate effect, standard equipment on the CL 63 AMG now includes the Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brake and crosswind stabilisation. With its variable ratio depending on steering angle, the Direct-Steer system helps to ensure a more direct response when cornering, and therefore more responsive handling – in brief: enhanced driving pleasure at the wheel of the Mercedes-AMG CL-Class. Thanks to brief direct application of the brakes on the vehicle's inner rear wheel when cornering, the Torque Vectoring Brake, meanwhile, helps to ensure that the V8 coupé corners precisely and under control at all times. The Torque Vectoring Brake is an additional feature of the Electronic Stability Program ESP® and not only noticeably improves responsiveness but also active handling safety in critical conditions.

The AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC) now also provides crosswind stabilisation as an additional function: thanks to this feature, influences caused by crosswinds are compensated for, or – in the case of strong gusts – reduced to a minimum. ABC compensates against the effect of crosswinds by adjusting the wheel load distribution within milliseconds, using the yaw-rate and lateral acceleration sensors of the ESP®.