2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Road Test Video

By Edmunds Video Productions | Published September 25, 2009

2:27 min

Now that the Mercedes Benz CLS 63 AMG is gone, we don�t just miss it, we crave it. Even just a little taste of its 507 hp, 6.2 liter V8 is enough to keep you coming back for more. It doesn�t seem like a 4,300 lb car should be so quick � but it is. 0-60 comes up in just 4.4 seconds and the CLS63 covers the quarter mile in 12.8 seconds � a performance that essentially equals that of the BMW M5. Thanks to 19 inch wheels wrapped with Pirelli PZero tires the big Benz has plenty of grip too - .88g in the skidpad to be exact. Still, it�s slower through the slalom than the M5 by five miles per hour � a notable margin for any car, especially a $100,000 performance sedan. The car also feels nose heavy thanks to that large chunk of metal sitting over the front wheels. So the CLS isn�t as agile as an M5 and it�s not our first choice for tackling curvy backroads. But the CLS� real accomplishment is that despite the low profile rubber and fire breathing engine, the car isn�t at all harsh. Even with the adjustable shocks on the stiffest setting, the ride remains comfortable and compliant. It�s also a very attractive sedan. The upper portion of this four-door carves an uninterrupted arc of the type designers are always going on about. The lines are pure, crisp and refreshing. And the interior is equally beautiful with plenty of soft leather and subtle touches of chrome trim. The dash is covered with wood trim but something about the grain or the color leaves us with a slightly low buck impression. Pretty and powerful, the CLS63 AMG is impressive on many fronts. Still, given US speed limits we can�t help but think it would be a silly purchase. The non-AMG CLS550 costs about $25,000 less and the 63 is no faster or quicker but it costs a little more. Though longer and wider than the E-class sedan on which it is based the CLS seats fewer people, less comfortably. Still, the CLS63 is remarkably fast � and quick. Ultimately that�s what makes the car so desirable. In fact, we think we might need a little more time in the car. You know, just to be sure.