Mercedes’ performance arm, AMG, is already ramping up development of the hot version of the CLS — as these spy pictures of the test hack lapping the Nürburgring prove.
The CLS63 AMG will be powered by the same twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 motor as the recently launched CL63 AMG.
See the spy pics of the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG
It has 536bhp and 590lb ft on tap in standard trim, and 563bhp with an optional performance package. Those figures mean that the new car should trim a tenth or two from the outgoing CLS63’s 0-62mph time of 4.7sec.
Opting for the performance package will also remove the 155mph speed limiter, freeing up the CLS63 to reach more than 180mph.
Read the full story on the new Mercedes CLS, including official pics
However, even the ultra-rapid CLS is likely to get stop-start and improved brake energy recuperation as Mercedes tries to lower the average emissions across its range.
In the CL63, the twin-turbo V8 emits over 100g/km less CO2 than the old normally aspirated powerplant.
