2012 MERCEDES CLS
BY BRUCE HUBBARD
AUTO ADVISOR GROUP
This week, U.S. journalists are test-driving the very first new-generation 2012 CLS coupes arriving in the U.S. I was not able to drive the new four door Coupe but others who did indicated the “first” drive was impressive. The all-new CLS-Class coupe represents the first major redesign of a car that established an entirely new market segment - the four-door coupe, which combines the emotional appeal and dynamic design of a coupe with the comfort and functionality of a sedan. The 2012 CLS line consists of three models, all powered by new biturbo direct-injection V8 engines. Even better the German’s added as I requested years ago the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive. A base vehicle will cost you $71,300 for the CLS550, $73,800 for the CLS550 4MATIC and $94,900 for the high-performance CLS63 AMG (not including delivery charges of $875). Add the other options or upgrades and expect to pay a lot more depending on what you select from the amazing offers of equipment.
Some journalist and designers state the new CLS looks similar to the S-Class, CL or E-Class Mercedes. The CLS fits right between the S-Class-based CL and the E-Class two-door to form a family of Mercedes coupes that makes efficient use of existing chassis and powertrain layouts while preserving their unique individual identities. More Fuel-Efficient CLS550 With its new 4.6-liter direct-injection twin-turbo V8 the new CLS550 achieves 26 percent better fuel mileage (est. 18 city / 26 hwy) than the previous model, while still producing 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft. of torque.
The CLS550 is equipped with new electrically assisted power steering, AIRMATIC air suspension and a revised seven-speed automatic transmission. Standard Mercedes safety technology on all CLS coupes includes PRE-SAFE, ABS anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, traction control and the ESP electronic stability control. DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE Brake is optionally available, as well as Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist. Mercedes and BMW have some of the best systems for similar vehicles. History shows that Mercedes has developed many of the superb safety features far before any other manufacturer.
The 5.5-liter version of the new direct-injection V8 engine in the 2012 CLS63 AMG is rated at 518 hp and 516 lb.-ft of torque. An optional AMG Performance Package increases output to 550 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. Even with its high-performance, the CLS63 AMG is 26 percent more fuel efficient (est. 15 city / 23 hwy), thanks in part to an innovative ECO stopstart system. Whenever the AMG model stops in "D" or "N" with the brake pedal depressed in "Controlled Efficiency" transmission mode, the engine is automatically turned off to save fuel. As soon as the driver releases the brake, the engine computer decides which piston is in the best position for first ignition, and the direct fuel injection and multi-spark systems work with a starter motor to re-start the engine almost instantly.
The CLS63 AMG features a 7-speed MCT (multi-clutch technology) sport transmission with an innovative start-up clutch that replaces the conventional torque converter. Providing the direct feedback of a manual transmission with the total convenience of an automatic, the MCT transmission offers impressive versatility and faster shift times.
In addition to larger brakes and wider wheels and tires, the CLS63 AMG also has a unique combination of steel coil springs at the front and AIRMATIC suspension at the rear, which provides especially responsive handling from the front suspension, while the self-leveling AIRMATIC at the rear maintains consistent ride height, regardless of the load. Along with a tubular front stabilizer bar, the CLS63 AMG is fitted with special front control arms and wheel hub carriers that provide wider track and more negative camber for even better grip in high speed curves. The CLS63 AMG rear suspension includes new track rods and push-pull rods as well as more rigid sub-frame mounts that all contribute to enhanced cornering.
The car is new and we need time to drive it for a week to give a complete analysis. But, from just a brief encounter it will probably be one the finest journeys we have ever encountered.
BRUCE HUBBARD
AUTO ADVISOR GROUP
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