THERE’S always some trepidation when manufacturers break with tradition – even more so when it involves a performance car’s engine and specifically a switch from a naturally-aspirated engine to one with forced induction. Enthusiasts, pessimists and motoring journalists usually prefer the purity of non-turbo cars, but the case for turbocharging is compelling and the technical data – let alone sheer performance figures – of the latest, facelifted CL63 AMG are compelling. The 6,2-litre V8 of the previous model has been replaced by a smaller, lighter, more powerful and – importantly – more efficient 5,5- litre twin-turbocharged unit that’s guaranteed to be pushed into service in upcoming AMG models.
Not only does it produce 14 kW and 170 N.m more than the 6,2- litre unit, it is also claimed to be 25 per cent more fuel efficient, thanks to the introduction of a stop/start system, which is only active when in Eco mode, as well as the utilisation of lighter steel, alloy and aluminium components.
It’s a pity that the AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed transmission doesn’t always feel ideally matched to the engine, because there are great dollops of overtaking shove available once the electronics have realised that the ’box needs to drop down a few gears. Having said that, a 4,58-second zero to 100 km/h sprint time from a vehicle that tips the scales at just under two tons, is quite astounding. At times, we did manage to wrong-foot the ‘box from a standing start, especially since the stop/start system needed to reignite the engine first. Using the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel does help, but we believe that most owners will prefer to leave the transmission to its own devices.
Thankfully, the addition of turbos has done nothing to mute the deep burble of the V8: the engine purrs along at highway speeds and lets rip with a vicious roar under hard acceleration.
That said, the CL is by nature a grand tourer and while its performance (both in a straight line, around the track and under braking) remains a great novelty, the car is meant to be an effortless, long distance cruiser. The fact that its underpinnings can cope with such frenetic engine performance does say a lot, but the CL63 AMG also offers an impeccable ride quality and at city-crawling speeds the car remains as easy to drive as a lesser CL. It comes standard with active body control (ABC) and a sport suspension: in C mode the ride is very compliant, but the dampers firm up appreciably in Sport mode.
In terms of visual upgrades, the CL63 AMG features a more distinctive grille, LED running lights in the headlamps, as well as a contoured bonnet and 20-inch wheels. The interior has also been updated, but remains as plush and tasteful as before. The seats are superbly cushioned and offer ample hip and lumbar support in all driving conditions. The rear has two individual seats that can be reached without the need to contort one’s body.
Standard features include everything from navigation with a split screen in the facia (it allows the driver to access the system while the front passenger simultaneously watches a DVD) to night vision with the ability to detect pedestrians, as well as a system that warns the driver when he/she gets drowsy. There are too many gizmos to mention them all!
TEST SUMMARY
The Mercedes-Benz CL is, in many ways, the quintessential grand tourer. In AMG garb it looks less stately than in standard trim, but there is no garishness and the reshaped front end is eyecatching. Unfortunately, it does show its age in terms of its less-than-intuitive Comand electronic interface, but interior build quality and finish are still class leading. Its power delivery is very impressive, even if the transmission seems too leisurely in its responses. Be that as it may, the CL is redeemed by its impeccable, unflustered ride quality. If a buyer seeks grace, pace and space, the CL does the job admirably. It is not an engaging sportscar, but a high-speed long distance cruiser. Is it an anachronism? Perhaps, but a fine one nonetheless.