The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC.

Publisher's note:  Normally, the cars you read about here at TireKicker are loaned to us by the press fleets of the various manufacturers for several days.  Seven is typical.  Occasionally, we'll get a longer period of time, and sometimes it'll only be three or four days.  Our "30 Minutes With" series are cars that we spent half an hour behind the wheel of during the just-concluded Western Automotive Journalists Media Days in Monterey, California.

Day one of Media Days is a driving program, with journalists taking cars from the staging area at Quail Lodge in Carmel Valley to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca via Laureles Grade.  Once there, you swap cars with another journalist for the drive back, and then swap cars again once back at the Quail. Apart from an hour's lunch, this is your day from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Each run is about half an hour, and driving 10 to 12 cars back-to-back-to-back gives you interesting points of reference about the next one.

After driving to the Quail from the host hotel, the  Monterey Tides at Sand City, in the 2017 Jaguar XE 35t AWD, it was straight into the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC.

Quail Lodge to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca (courtesy: Google Maps).

Laureles Grade is about five and a half miles of non-stop twists and turns between Carmel Valley Road and CA 68, and thus perfect for a pack of automotive journalists and some high-grade machinery.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC.

While Mercedes builds some of the best cars in the world, I've always been underwhelmed by their least-expensive cars.  It costs money to build a car to a standard, and that's why E-Classes and S-Classes cost what they do.  The first ML SUV was built to a price, and it showed.  The most egregious example was the GLA 250's most direct ancestor, the 2001-2005 C230 Coupe.  Car and Driver was as kind as it could be at the time, but if you read between the lines, you can see that Frank Markus had to really, really try.

How can I call the GLA 250, a crossover SUV, a direct descendant of a hatchback coupe?  Two things:

One, as with the C230, the GLA is one of Mercedes' lowest-priced offerings.  At a base price of $32,850, only the CLA Coupe costs less, and then only by $150.

And two:  Cross the pond to Europe and you'll find this vehicle...marketed as a hatchback.  To sell it in 'Murica, where the word "minivan" is (slightly) more socially acceptable than the word "hatchback", Mercedes elevated the ride height, and positioned it as a luxury small crossover.

The good news is that its hatchback roots provide the "U" ("utility") in "SUV", with abundant and flexible cargo space, and make it a much more engaging car to drive on a twisty road.  Bottom line: The GLA 250 4MATIC tracks like it's on rails.  And the 2-liter turbo inline four's 208 horsepower works so well with the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic that it always seems to be in a sweet spot...delivering just the right amount of power with more the moment you want it, and (from what we could tell in 30 minutes) with zero turbo lag.

Don't confuse that with being super-fast, though.  Mercedes' own 0-60 estimate for the GLA 250 is 7.1 seconds.  You'll keep up with Camrys and Accords at the stoplights and on-ramps. Big-time power is available by stepping up to the AMG GLA 45, which jacks things up to 345 horsepower, cuts 0-60 down to 4.3 seconds and comes with a base price of $49,900.

Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC interior.

If you're coming straight from a more upscale ride, the GLA 250's interior appointments may seem a little spartan, but the materials are of a high quality, and fit and finish are excellent.

So...knowing that a base Mercedes anything at the base price is a unicorn...what's it really cost?  Well, window stickers weren't available, so using Mercedes' "build it" feature on their website, we find that going with the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive adds $2,000 to the $32,850 base price.

The one we drove had 19-inch  AMG twin 5-spoke wheels in black, which requires the "Night" package, which includes the $2,300 "Sport" package and gloss black exterior accents for a total of $2,600.

The panorama roof was another $1,480...and $2,300 for the COMAND nav/entertainment system, which also requires the $2,750 Premium Package...

To be honest, in half an hour, without a window sticker, I'm guessing as to what the car may and may not have had beyond that.  So to be fair to Mercedes, let's be conservative and say that's it.  Which gets us to a bottom line of....$45,055 including $925 transportation charge.  And that's a big enough jump from the $32,850 base as to put it out of reach of anyone attracted by the base price.

But even without the options, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC surprised me.  It's very good---quite possibly the best entry-level Benz yet.

Affalterbach, Germany - In the new E 63 4MATIC+* Estate and E 63 S 4MATIC+* Estate, Mercedes‑AMG combines the brand's hallmark Driving Performance with high utility value and the intelligence of the E‑Class. As in the Saloon, the 4.0‑litre V8 biturbo engine with an output of up to 450 kW (612 hp) and the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive deliver outstanding driving dynamics. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds sets a new record in this class. At the same time the engine is now even more efficient thanks to a cylinder deactivation system fitted as standard.

Like the Saloon, the E 63 4MATIC Estate and E 63 S 4MATIC+ Estate offer innovative drive technology and outstanding performance coupled with a unique design, exclusive appointments and the latest infotainment features for a wide range of connected multimedia applications.
The new Estate boasts even more agile response than its predecessor: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT (Multi Clutch Technology) 9‑speed sports transmission is combined with a wet clutch. Another highlight is the new AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system, which combines the advantages of various drive configurations. Torque distribution on the front and rear axles, which is fully variable for the first time, ensures optimum traction in all road conditions.

"The new AMG E 63 Estate combines our brand's hallmark driving dynamics with high everyday practicality. It is not for nothing that the model has been a permanent fixture in the AMG portfolio for 40 years. The powerful engine and the intelligent all-wheel drive underpin our claim to always be at the forefront of development when it comes to performance," states Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Technical data at a glance


Exterior design

Every detail of the exterior is designed to enable AMG Driving Performance to be experienced at first hand from every perspective. The distinctive, sporty design of the front end forward of the A-pillar demonstrates the lengths AMG goes to when it comes to development: For the first time on an AMG estate, the bonnet is inset between the wings and bumper like on a coupé, thus exhibiting an entirely new, more dynamic approach to the sculpting. More powerful-looking and 27 millimetres wider, the wheel arches accommodate the greater track width and the larger wheels on the front axle.

A wide front apron inspired by the design of a jet wing, with flics in black and a large front splitter, impressively epitomises the power of the new models. It also showcases the sophisticated cooling technology – a typical feature from motorsport and another visual reference to the powerful engine.

The side sill panels make the estate appear to sit lower on the road and elongate the overall line, culminating in a muscular rear end with an apron insert sporting a diffuser look and the two high-gloss chrome-plated twin tailpipe trims of the exhaust system. The hallmark AMG V8 sound has been tuned specifically for the Estate model.

Designers and aerodynamics experts worked closely together to develop the E 63 4MATIC+ Estate. Their insights not only resulted in the striking AMG bodystyling but also the performance-oriented lift balance – for agile handling characteristics on country roads and optimum driving stability at high speed on the motorway.

The new E 63 4MATIC+ Estate likewise sets standards in its segment when it comes to everyday practicality: boasting a capacity of 640 to 1820 litres, its boot is the largest in the performance estate segment. The rear seat back comes as standard with a new cargo-related functionality: it can be positioned at a 10-degree steeper angle. This creates an additional 30 litres of cargo volume while continuing to enable full use to be made of five seats. In addition, the rear seat back can be folded down in a 40:20:40 split. Unlocking is electric.

New peak of performance: 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with twin-scroll turbochargers

The versatile AMG 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine in the E 63 S 4MATIC+ Estate takes peak output to a new level at 450 kW (612 hp). The maximum torque of 850 Nm is likewise a new high. It is available over a broad engine speed range of 2500 to 4500 rpm and so provides a feeling of effortless superiority in every accelerator pedal position. The E 63 4MATIC+ Estate is rated at 420 kW (571 hp) and has 750 Nm of torque. The S version completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, the E 63 4MATIC+ in 3.6 seconds.

The standard-fit AMG Cylinder Management and a number of other measures make the new performance estate exceptionally efficient: with a combined fuel consumption of 9.1 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of 206 grams per kilometre (combined), both engine variants set a new best by comparison with their competitors. Twin-scroll turbochargers are installed for the first time to further enhance the performance and response of the AMG 4.0-litre V8 engine. They reduce the exhaust gas backpressure and optimise the gas cycle, resulting in higher output, exceptionally spontaneous response and higher torque at low revs.

AMG Performance 4MATIC+ variable all-wheel drive

Both estate models come with the innovative AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all‑wheel-drive system fitted as standard. This newly engineered, intelligent system brings together the advantages of various drive configurations: torque distribution on the front and rear axles, which is fully variable for the first time, ensures optimum traction on any surface. The driver can rely on a high level of handling safety.

An electromechanically controlled coupling connects the permanently driven rear axle variably to the front axle. The best possible torque distribution is calculated continuously. The performance estate can thus be driven in a continuously variable way from traction-oriented all-wheel drive to purely rear-wheel drive. In addition to traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel-drive system also improves the longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration.

Short shift times, high efficiency: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission is specially tuned to the requirements of both models, featuring re-engineered hardware and software. The software enables extremely short shift times and fast multiple downshifts while the double-clutching function makes for an emotive gearshifting experience. A wet clutch replaces the torque converter. It saves weight and optimises response, especially when accelerating or coming off the power.

For a personalised experience: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs

The four different AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport Plus" and "Individual" allow drivers to extensively influence the characteristics of the E 63 Estate. Key parameters are modified - such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension, steering, ESP® and all-wheel-drive system. Independently of the drive programs, the driver has the option of pressing the "M" button to switch directly to manual mode, in which gearshifts are performed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. Individual suspension settings can be selected as required. The S version also comes with the "RACE" drive program for highly dynamic driving on closed race circuits. Here all parameters are set for maximum performance.

Specially developed suspension for maximum lateral and longitudinal dynamics

The agility and the high cornering speeds of the new models are down to the all‑new AMG suspension with full-support multi-chamber air suspension, which ensures exceptionally high levels of camber stability, driving dynamics and steering precision.

A four-link front axle design uses forged aluminium components with wishbones, strut rod and spring link. Independent wheel control and wheel suspension parts enable higher lateral acceleration, but minimal torque steer on the steering system. The likewise model-specific, completely redesigned rear axle was specially adapted to the higher vehicle dynamics. The suspension thus ensures hallmark E-Class comfort with high levels of precision and driving dynamics.

Personalised driving experience thanks to three-chamber air suspension system

Thanks to a sporty spring and damper set-up and continuously variable damping, the new three-chamber air suspension system combines exemplary driving dynamics with excellent road roar and tyre vibration characteristics. The stiffness of the air springs can be adjusted over a wide range by activating or deactivating individual air chambers, which tangibly enhances comfort and handling.

There are three degrees of spring tuning, depending on the selected drive program and current driving status. The spring rate is hardened automatically in the event of sudden load changes, fast cornering, heavy acceleration or heavy braking, which effectively reduces roll and pitching while stabilising the performance estate.

The adaptive damping can be set in three stages – “Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus” – to choose between relaxed comfort on long journeys and maximum sportiness. The rebound and compression levels are adjusted independently of each other, and the freely programmable characteristics map permits a wide spread between the minimum and maximum damper force. The difference between the comfortable and sporty suspension setting is more refined and is clearly perceptible – depending on the driving style.

Rear differential lock: optimum traction

For improved traction and vehicle dynamics, the E 63 4MATIC+ Estate has a mechanical rear-axle limited-slip differential, while the S model comes with an electronically controlled version. Both differentials reduce the slip on the inside wheel when cornering, without control interventions in the braking system. The driver is able to accelerate out of bends earlier and more powerfully. The car remains more stable when braking from high speeds, the limited-slip differential improves traction when moving off.

The greatest benefit of the electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential is the even more sensitive and proactive control, which pushes the thresholds higher and makes it easier to drive at the vehicle's limits. The three-stage ESP® with "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT Handling Mode" and "ESP OFF" settings works in precise unison with the rear-axle limited-slip differential and the all-wheel drive, and is optimally tuned to the outstanding dynamics.

E 63 S 4MATIC+ with dynamic engine mounts as standard

Uniquely in this segment, the E 63 S 4MATIC+ Estate is fitted with dynamic engine mounts, which solve the conflicting goals of achieving as soft a connection as possible to the powertrain for high comfort and as rigid a connection as possible for optimum driving dynamics. The dynamic mounts are quickly and variably able to adapt their stiffness to the driving conditions and requirements. These measures enhance the vehicle's precision when driven dynamically, while the soft setting increases comfort tangibly.

Direct and with clear feedback: the AMG speed-sensitive steering

Both models feature electromechanical speed-sensitive sports steering with a variable ratio, which impresses thanks to the rack ratio with precise and authentic feedback. Steering power assistance is variably adjusted in the stages "Comfort", "Sport" or "Sport Plus". The relevant characteristics are automatically activated depending on the selected DYNAMIC SELECT drive program or can be personalised in "Individual" mode. The driver does not need to steer much at low speeds while at high speed he or she is able to rely on solid straight-line stability.

Good sensitivity and fade-resistant: the AMG high-performance braking system

The large-sized high-performance compound braking system is reliable, quick and fade-resistant, even under high loads. There are internally ventilated and perforated compound brake discs in size 360 x 36 mm at the front with six-piston fixed callipers and in size 360 x 24 mm with single-piston floating brake callipers on the rear axle.

The S version is fitted with even larger compound brake discs on the front axle in size 390 x 36 mm. Plus there is an AMG Carbon Ceramic braking system available as an option, with brake discs in size 402 x 39 mm on the front axle and 360 x 32 mm on the rear axle.

Sporty characteristics: the interior design

The interior reinforces the consistently dynamic bias with numerous specially designed details. The AMG performance steering wheel in black nappa leather is ideal for a sporty driving style. The driver and front passenger enjoy a secure position in the front sports seats, whatever the driving style, thanks to the improved lateral support. AMG performance seats with integral head restraints can be ordered as an option. The interior of the S version has been further refined and includes a nappa leather trim for the dashboard and beltlines as well as seat belts in crystal grey and a steering wheel with grey 12-o'clock marking.

All of the important information appears within the driver's field of vision on the AMG instrument cluster. Dials in a carbon-fibre look and the distinctive typography lend the displays an especially sporty touch. The widescreen multifunction display with two monitors comes as standard in the S version, otherwise it is available as an option. With the widescreen display, the driver can choose from three display designs unique to AMG: Classic, Sport and Progressive.

Intelligent Drive

The E 63 4MATIC+ Estate and the S version feature all the connectivity and Intelligent Drive functions of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, such as DRIVE PILOT to assist the driver with semi-automated driving in traffic jams or on routine trips.

In addition to the standard functions of Mercedes me connect, Remote Online (included as standard with COMAND Online) offers a range of convenience features via smartphone. New functions include the Concierge Service with personal services such as weather and stock-market information, route recommendations, or suggestions for sporting or cultural activities. The required navigation data is transmitted straight to the vehicle. This service is free of charge for the first year.

Even more exclusivity: the E 63 S 4MATIC+ Estate "Edition 1"

From launch, the E 63 S 4MATIC+ Estate will be available as the exclusively configured "Edition 1" for around one year. The paintwork in designo selenite grey magno or optionally in designo night black magno and the AMG Night package further enhance the car's powerful aura while the light grey stripes above the side sill panels emphasise the elongated side line to full effect. Added to this are the AMG 20-inch 7-twin-spoke forged wheels, painted in matt black with high-gloss polished rim flange.

AMG performance seats in black nappa leather with yellow top stitching create an exceptionally sporty ambience in the interior, which is further enhanced by the colour-coordinated yellow highlights on the AMG performance sports steering wheel, upper part of the dashboard, door panels, centre console, AMG floor mats and analogue clock in IWC design. The sports steering wheel in black DINAMICA microfibre features "Edition 1" lettering and a 12-o'clock marking in black. Carbon-fibre trim elements further enhance the exciting juxtaposition of colours and materials.

The world premiere of the two performance estate models will be at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2017. Sales release is in April 2017, with the market launch scheduled to start in June 2017.


















Credits: Daimler AG / Mercedes-AMG

Copyright © 2017, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Affalterbach, Germany, Sep 02, 2015

Mercedes-Benz is presenting a superlative dream car in the guise of the S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet. For the first time in its 48-year history, Mercedes‑Benz's sports car and high-performance brand is offering a four-seater Cabriolet in the S-Class segment, adding to its product portfolio an attractive alternative for automobile enthusiasts with a penchant for performance and luxury. The new model also offers its driver and up to three passengers space to travel in style. Its high-calibre statistics: 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine with an output of 430 kW (585 hp) and peak torque of 900 Nm, AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque split as standard, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a high-performance composite brake system for optimum deceleration.

High-performance technology coupled with expressive exterior and interior design: It is immediately apparent that the new S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet is built by car enthusiasts for car enthusiasts. "The new S 63 Cabriolet is another fascinating AMG dream car from Affalterbach", says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. "The new model demonstrates in impressive style that we are keeping our foot firmly on the gas in 2015. We are continuing our model initiative with a vengeance - in all market segments."

AMG Lightweight Performance

The basis for the vehicle's superior and dynamic character is provided by the particularly rigid bodyshell structure featuring innovative solutions such as the luggage compartment bulkhead made of magnesium.

The increase in weight which is inherent to the design of a convertible has been limited by the use of a lightweight lithium-ion battery, AMG light-alloy wheels produced by means of a sophisticated forging process and the weight-optimised AMG high-performance composite brake system. In addition, large parts of the shell and the front section are made of aluminium, as is the vehicle's rear end.

AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine: superior and efficient

In terms of maximum output, torque and fuel consumption, the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine remains one of the most efficient series-produced V8 engines in the world. With an output of 430 kW (585 hp) and 900 Newton metres of torque, the AMG eight-cylinder engine meets the very highest standards. And the same goes for its performance: the S 63 Cabriolet accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

NEDC fuel consumption of 10.4 litres per 100 kilometres makes the two-door model the most fuel-efficient model in its competitive segment. This just goes to show that performance, efficiency and environmental compatibility need not be mutually exclusive aims.

The data at a glance:


Exhaust system with automatic exhaust flaps

The S 63 Cabriolet also adapts to the driver's individual wishes in terms of its engine sound – from emotional and sporty to a more restrained alternative suitable for long journeys. The exhaust system has automatic logic-controlled exhaust flaps in both rear silencers. When the transmission is in "C" (Controlled Efficiency) mode, the flaps remain closed in most situations, in which case the eight-cylinder biturbo engine's sound is more understated. In "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual) modes, the exhaust flaps open earlier and more spontaneously, especially if the driver prefers a dynamic driving style. This results in an emotional, signature AMG engine sound.

"One man, one engine": a tradition of hand-built excellence

The biturbo eight-cylinder engine of the S 63 Cabriolet is fitted by hand in the hand-finishing section of AMG's production plant in Affalterbach. Highly qualified engine fitters assemble the engines according to the strictest quality standards based on the "one man, one engine" philosophy. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative precision and production quality, the AMG engine plate bearing the engine technician's signature also alludes to the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz's sports car and high-performance brand.

Individuality: AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission combines perfectly with the V8 biturbo engine. Maximum agility and exciting dynamics are the two key strengths of this transmission, which is used exclusively at AMG. Drivers can configure their own personal set-up, depending on their driving style. There are three modes to choose from: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual). The ECO start/stop function features as standard and is activated in transmission mode "C".

Performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive

There are two variants of the S 63 Cabriolet available: with rear-wheel drive (as RHD version only) or with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive (as LHD version). The combination of S-Class Cabriolet and 4MATIC is exclusive to the AMG variant. The drive distributes 33 percent of the engine torque to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle. This rear-biased power distribution provides for the signature AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment, and improves acceleration in all driving situations, including from a standing start. The all-wheel drive also enhances driving safety on wet or wintry road surfaces.

AIRMATIC air suspension

The AMG specialists have also pulled out all the stops when it comes to the suspension: The S 63 Cabriolet comes with the AIRMATIC full-support air suspension featuring the adaptive damping system ADS PLUS, which can be preset to "Sport" or "Comfort". At the touch of a button, the special configurations of these two programmes enable outstanding agility and dynamics or unlimited comfort on long journeys and smooth cruising at low speeds.

Specific front axle kinematics – including a higher camber, a larger anti-roll bar and a stiffer subframe carrier on the rear axle – have also been developed for the Cabriolet. The AMG-specific elastokinematics and parameterisation of the continuously variable damper control, the lower air volume of the air suspension system and the progressive piston geometry nip unpleasant rolling and pitching in the bud.

It is also possible to raise the vehicle's level by 30 millimetres on poor surfaces. The chassis is lowered again automatically in "Sport" mode and from a speed of 120 km/h in "Controlled Efficiency" mode.

Systematic lightweight construction: AMG forged wheels as standard

The S 63 Cabriolet is equipped with forged AMG light-alloy wheels as standard. This forged design provides for extremely strong and particularly light wheels. The resultant lower unsprung masses give rise to advantages in terms of handling and spring/damper element response. In the standard specification, the S 63 Cabriolet is fitted with multi-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish – 8.5 x 19 at the front and 9.5 x 19 at the rear, with 255/45 R 19 and 285/40 R 19 tyres respectively. Forged wheels are available as optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio, in size 8.5 x 20 at the front and 9.5 x 20 at the rear, fitted with tyres in size 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 respectively.

Optional AMG high-performance ceramic composite brake system

Short stopping distances and rapid deceleration are a given for the S 63 Cabriolet, which is equipped with a weight-optimised, fade-resistant high-performance composite brake system. A ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available as an option. The design, which is more than 20 percent lighter, ensures lower unsprung masses as well as enhanced driving dynamics, agility and ride comfort.

Design as an expression of sportiness and performance

The S 63 Cabriolet also boasts exciting looks to emphasise its sporty performance: The design is a stage for the exciting technology at the heart of the new dream car. Numerous exquisitely designed aerodynamic elements underscore the outstanding driving dynamics: the front end is dominated by the three-dimensional "twin-blade" radiator grille in silver chrome. Under the radiator grille is the "A-wing": this three-dimensional aerodynamic feature is painted in the body colour and sports the stylised "A" that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles. Large, black flics surround the outer cooling air intakes. Down below, the front splitter in silver chrome optimises the flow of air to the cooling modules. It also makes the vehicle appear closer to the road.

A similar effect is created by the side sill panels with their high-quality, three-dimensional inserts in silver chrome. Together with the lower feature line, these inserts make the S 63 Cabriolet exude dynamism even when it is at a standstill.
At the rear, the diffuser insert in high-gloss black also catches the eye straight away. The lower trim element in silver chrome is reminiscent of the A-wing at the front and provides an effective contrast. The two chromed twin tailpipes of the exhaust system with sports flaps are perfectly integrated into the diffuser insert.

Interior: beguiling luxury and sporty exclusivity

Opening the door reveals the beguilingly luxurious interior of the S 63 Cabriolet: the instrument panel almost seamlessly transitions into the doors in a wrap-around design. High-quality materials and fine workmanship are combined with a sporty, exclusive design idiom. The newly developed AMG sports seats with electrical adjustment, Memory function and seat heating offer the driver and front passenger optimum lateral support.

The three-spoke sports steering wheel with its distinctively contoured rim and perforated leather in the grip area allows perfect vehicle control. Aluminium shift paddles shorten the reaction time when changing gear and enhance dynamism. Another feature displaying the hallmark AMG look is the high-resolution TFT colour display as an instrument cluster with two animated round dials. In addition to the AMG-specific lettering and the needles in red/silver, further distinctive design features include the start-up display, the AMG logo in the speedometer with 330 km/h scale and the "V8 BITURBO" lettering in the rev counter.

World premiere in 2015 and market launch in 2016

The S 63 Cabriolet will have its world premiere at the Frankfurt International Motor Show. It will go on sale in December, and the market launch will begin in the spring of 2016.




















Credits: Daimler AG / Mercedes-AMG

Copyright © 2015, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

625 kW / 850 hp (838 bhp), 1,450 Nm (1,069 lb-ft) of torque, 3.1 seconds for the sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph): these are the outstanding performance data of the BRABUS 850 Shooting Brake 6.0 Biturbo 4MATIC. This makes the high-performance automobile based on the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake the world’s most powerful street-legal all-wheel-drive wagon. The exclusive five-door car from BRABUS features the new V8 high-capacity engine and offers high-performance in its purest form: with forged BRABUS Monoblock R "Platinum Edition" 20-inch wheels and a dynamically styled aerodynamic-enhancement kit it also sports an extravagant appearance.

Following three performance levels for the CLS 63 AMG that produced 430 kW / 584 hp (576 bhp), 456 kW / 620 hp (611 bhp) or 537 kW / 730 hp (720 bhp) with the BRABUS B63S - 730 performance kit, the BRABUS motor engineers have now opened the door to a new performance dimension for all current CLS 63 models – four-door coupe or Shooting Brake.

The BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo high-capacity engine is the crowning achievement in the BRABUS 2014 engine line-up. Delivering high-performance by means of increasing displacement is a long-standing and successful tradition at BRABUS. In this case, a displacement increase to just shy of 6.0 liters (361 cu. in.) joins forces with an even more efficient turbocharging system with two turbochargers.

The step up from standard 5,461 cc to 5,912 cc (333 to 361 cu. in.) requires quite a lot of technical effort. After increasing the bore of the eight cylinders in the BRABUS engine-building shop the engine is rebuilt with a precision-balanced billet crankshaft with a stroke of 96 instead of 90.5 millimeters (3.77 instead of 3.56 in). The engine is also fitted with eight forged pistons and billet piston rods. The two cylinder heads are also optimized for improved mixture flow.

The extensive redesign not only covers the inner workings of the engine, the peripherals are also upgraded to the high-performance configuration. The production turbos give room to two turbochargers with larger compressor unit and modified exhaust manifolds. To keep the charge-air temperature as cool as possible, the intake and charge-air pipes are fitted with eye-catching BRABUS "Gold Heat Reflection" sheathing.

The standard intake manifold is also not designed for this much power and is replaced by a special development from the BRABUS engine department.

The BRABUS 850 intake manifold consists of an air filter box with larger intake cross section. It is supplied with air through an air duct integrated into the hood. Its larger intake pipe is positioned in the front fascia directly exposed to the relative wind.

On the exhaust side, metal catalysts and a BRABUS sport exhaust system with controlled butterfly valve ensure optimal power yield and a thrilling exhaust note. At the push of a button drivers can choose whether to enjoy a full-blooded and earthy V8 exhaust note in “Sport” position or listen to a subtle whisper in the “Coming Home” mode. The fully stainless-steel exhaust system also has a visual effect: in conjunction with the BRABUS diffuser for the production fascia the two ceramic-coated design tailpipes marked with BRABUS logo lend the rear end of the CLS an unmistakable look.

BRABUS has a test-rig park with state-of-the-art simulation technology that is second to none in the tuning industry. The motor engineers used this hardware not only for endurance tests to ensure the proverbial durability of a BRABUS engine. Together with the electronics engineers they developed tailor-made mapping for the electronic engine management system. The objective was not only maximum performance: also part of the performance specifications were a harmonious and superior power delivery over the entire rev range and exemplary exhaust emissions.

A displacement of six liters (361 cu. in.) and two turbochargers result in the most powerful engine to date based on Mercedes-Benz: the BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo high-capacity engine produces 625 kW / 850 hp (838 bhp) of power at a low 5,400 rpm. And the eight-cylinder engine also sets a new benchmark for peak torque: between 2,500 and 4,500 rpm the engine produces a steady torque of 1,450 Nm (1,069 lb-ft). To protect the powertrain torque is limited electronically to 1,150 Nm (848 lb-ft). Like all BRABUS components this high-performance engine is backed by the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers/62,000 miles (see BRABUS Warranty Terms and Conditions, updated July 2013).

The new top-of-the-line engine, which is operated exclusively with high-performance lubricants from technology partner MOTUL, is available for all current CLS 63 AMG models, Coupe and Shooting Brake, with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. Especially the 4MATIC version of the BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo delivers acceleration figures previously unimaginable for sedans or wagons. From rest the BRABUS supercar sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.1 seconds. The model with only two driven wheels takes six-tenths of a second longer.

The unique performance of the engine also gives the tuned CLS 63 AMG an unrivalled top speed. The BRABUS 850 high-capacity engine propels the four-door coupe to a top speed of??? km/h (??? mph).

At these speeds efficient aerodynamic properties are absolutely essential. For this reason the carbon-fiber front fascia developed specifically for the BRABUS ROCKET 800 with a top speed in excess of 370 km/h (230 mph) was adapted to both body styles of the CLS 63. The fascia was optimized in the wind tunnel and minimizes negative lift on the front axle while lowering drag at the same time. The fascia also includes the complete radiator frame. The air slots integrated above the radiator grille route additional fresh air to the new intake manifold.

The carbon-fiber design elements in the front fenders are also part of the sporty-dynamic appearance of the five-door car. The BRABUS rocker panels with clear-coated carbon-fiber inserts and integrated LED entrance lights calm the airstream along the sides of the vehicle.

The rear of the ultimate lifestyle wagon is refined with a clear-coated carbon-fiber BRABUS diffuser with tailor-made cutouts for the dual tailpipes of the high-performance exhaust system.

High tech and design also enter into a perfect symbiosis in the wheels of the BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo. Thanks to state-of-the-art forging technology the BRABUS Monoblock R "Platinum Edition" wheels reduce unsprung masses to a minimum. At the same time they have a fascinating and innovative design with two sets of five double-spokes alternatingly polished and painted anthracite grey, arranged in two plains. Of course dynamic handling doesn’t come up short either: the size 9Jx20 front wheels with size 255/30 ZR 20 tires provide excellent grip as do the size 295/25 ZR 20 tires on size 10.5Jx20 wheels on the rear axle. The perfect high-performance tires are supplied by BRABUS technology partners Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA.

Exclusive BRABUS fine leather interiors that satisfy any customer request are another specialty realized in the company upholstery shop. The BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo can be equipped with the finest leathers and Alcantara in any desired color. Scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo and the rear tables for installation on the back of the front seats add individual highlights as do the markedly sporty aluminum components such as pedal pads, door-lock pins and shift paddles on the steering wheel. The product portfolio also includes high-quality clear-coated carbon-fiber inlays for the instrument panel and center console in any desired color as well as wood trim in any desired color and grain.





































~ Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS GmbH ~

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