Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S II W218 (2015): A Review
Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into a seriously awesome car, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S II W218. This isn't just any sedan, guys; this is a powerhouse wrapped in an incredibly stylish package. If you're a fan of luxury, performance, and that unmistakable AMG growl, stick around because we're about to break down what makes this car a legend. We'll cover everything from its stunning design to its mind-blowing performance and those little luxury touches that Mercedes is famous for. So, buckle up, and let's explore the 2015 CLS 63 AMG S II W218!
The Heart of the Beast: AMG Performance
When we talk about the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S II W218, we have to start with its incredible performance. Under the hood, this beast packs a 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine. Yeah, you read that right – twin turbos on a V8! This powerhouse is tuned by AMG, Mercedes' in-house performance division, meaning it's not just powerful; it's engineered for pure driving pleasure. In the 'S' model, you're looking at a staggering 577 horsepower and a colossal 590 lb-ft of torque. That's enough to make your hair stand on end and plant you firmly in your seat the moment you tap the accelerator. The 0-60 mph sprint? It's a blur, clocking in at around 3.6 seconds. Seriously, guys, this car is faster than many sports cars out there, but it does it all while comfortably seating four adults. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed transmission is lightning-quick, delivering rapid shifts that keep the power on tap. Whether you're cruising on the highway or carving through corners, the CLS 63 AMG S II delivers an exhilarating experience. The all-wheel-drive system (4MATIC) is standard on the S model, which is crucial for putting all that power down effectively and safely, especially in less-than-ideal weather conditions. It's tuned to send more power to the rear wheels, maintaining that classic AMG RWD feel while providing the added grip when you need it. The exhaust note? Oh man, it's pure music. That deep, throaty rumble is the signature sound of AMG, a constant reminder of the potent engine lurking beneath that sculpted hood. It's aggressive, it's thrilling, and it's utterly addictive. This car isn't just about getting from A to B; it's about enjoying every single second of the journey. The engine itself is a masterpiece of engineering, built with precision and passion by AMG's dedicated technicians. The biturbo setup means instant response and relentless acceleration. You can feel the surge of power building smoothly, then BAM! You're accelerating with incredible force. It’s a feeling that never gets old. And when you need to slow down from those exhilarating speeds, the performance braking system is more than up to the task, providing confidence-inspiring stopping power.
Design That Turns Heads
Moving beyond the sheer grunt, let's talk about how the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S II W218 looks. Honestly, this car is a stunner. Mercedes-Benz designers absolutely nailed it with the CLS lineup, and the AMG version takes it to another level. The silhouette is often described as a 'four-door coupe,' and you can see why. It has this incredibly sleek, flowing roofline that sweeps back elegantly, giving it a dynamic and athletic profile. The front end is aggressive, with a distinctive AMG grille, large air intakes that feed that massive engine, and sharp, modern headlights. The body lines are muscular and sculpted, hinting at the power within without being over the top. It’s a perfect blend of elegance and sportiness. The coupe-like styling is unmistakable, setting it apart from more traditional sedans. The LED daytime running lights add a signature touch that makes it instantly recognizable, even when it's not moving. From the side, those distinctive wheels, often larger and more aggressive on AMG models, fill the arches perfectly. The rear is just as captivating, with sleek taillights and a subtle rear diffuser that hints at its performance credentials. The quad exhaust tips are a clear giveaway that this is no ordinary CLS. It’s a car that commands attention wherever it goes, exuding an air of sophisticated power. The paintwork on these cars is typically flawless, with deep, lustrous finishes that catch the light beautifully. It's a design that is both timeless and modern, proving that a car can be both a practical sedan and a work of art. The attention to detail is evident in every curve and contour. Even the door handles seem to flow seamlessly into the bodywork. Aerodynamics also play a role in its stunning looks, with design elements carefully crafted to manage airflow efficiently, contributing to both performance and stability at high speeds. The overall aesthetic of the 2015 CLS 63 AMG S II W218 is one of understated menace and refined luxury. It’s the kind of car that makes you want to pull on some driving gloves and head out on a scenic route, just to admire it as it glides along. The interior design complements this exterior elegance, creating a cohesive and luxurious experience from every angle. It’s a true masterpiece of automotive design.
Luxury and Technology Inside
Slide into the cabin of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S II W218, and you’re immediately enveloped in a world of luxury and cutting-edge technology. Mercedes-Benz knows how to do interiors, and this car is a prime example. The seats are usually clad in premium leather, often with Alcantara inserts, providing both supreme comfort and excellent support during spirited driving. The AMG sports seats are not just about looks; they offer exceptional bolstering to keep you firmly in place when the G-forces kick in. The steering wheel is typically an AMG performance steering wheel, wrapped in Nappa leather, with a flat bottom and paddle shifters, giving you a direct connection to the car's mechanical heart. Throughout the cabin, you'll find high-quality materials – soft-touch plastics, genuine wood or carbon fiber trim, and brushed metal accents. Everything feels solid, well-built, and luxurious. The infotainment system might seem a bit dated by today's standards, but back in 2015, it was quite advanced. It typically featured a central display screen, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium sound system – often Harman Kardon or Bang & Olufsen – that delivers crystal-clear audio. The COMAND system controls most of these functions, operated via a rotary dial and buttons on the center console. While it lacks the large touchscreens of modern cars, it's intuitive and keeps your eyes on the road. Ambient lighting is often a feature, adding a sophisticated glow to the cabin at night. The rear seats offer decent space for two adults, though the sloping roofline does impact headroom slightly compared to a more traditional sedan. Still, it's far more practical than a true coupe. Other luxury touches include heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof that enhances the feeling of spaciousness. The attention to detail in the cabin is remarkable, with fine stitching and subtle AMG badging reminding you of the car's special status. It’s a cockpit designed for both the driver and passengers to enjoy a premium experience, whether on a long road trip or a quick commute. The overall ambiance is one of refined sportiness, a place where you feel cocooned in luxury yet connected to the powerful machine beneath you. The ergonomics are generally excellent, with most controls falling easily to hand. It’s a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s design philosophy, blending form and function seamlessly. The safety features, while not as extensive as in newer cars, still included a comprehensive suite of airbags, ABS, stability control, and optional driver assistance systems, ensuring peace of mind on every journey.
Driving Dynamics and Handling
Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: how does the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S II W218 handle? This is where the AMG magic truly shines. Despite its considerable size and power, the CLS 63 AMG S II is surprisingly agile. The AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension plays a huge role here. It's an adaptive damping system that continuously adjusts the suspension stiffness based on road conditions and driving style. You can often select different modes, like Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus, allowing you to tailor the ride to your preference. In Comfort mode, it's remarkably compliant for a performance car, soaking up bumps and providing a smooth ride on the highway. Switch to Sport or Sport Plus, and the suspension firms up significantly, reducing body roll and sharpening the car's responses. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you a good feel for what the front wheels are doing. While it might not have the raw feedback of a pure sports car, it's more than adequate for enthusiastic driving. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, as mentioned earlier, is a game-changer. It provides tenacious grip, allowing you to put that immense V8 power down with confidence, even in tight corners or wet conditions. It’s biased towards the rear, so you still get that engaging, RWD-like feel, but with the added security of front-wheel traction when needed. The braking system is equally impressive. The standard brakes are substantial, but many owners opt for the optional ceramic brakes, which offer even greater stopping power and fade resistance, perfect for track days or repeated hard braking. The car feels planted and stable at high speeds, making it an excellent grand tourer. You can cover long distances with ease, feeling confident and in control. The balance of the car is excellent, thanks to the sophisticated chassis and suspension tuning. It doesn't feel nose-heavy, despite the large V8 engine up front. Torque vectoring also plays a subtle role, helping to rotate the car into corners, making it feel more nimble than its size would suggest. The driving experience is truly multifaceted; it can be a comfortable cruiser one moment and a ferocious sports sedan the next. The transition between these modes is seamless, thanks to the advanced technology employed by AMG. The suspension upgrades unique to the AMG S model provide a slightly firmer setup compared to the standard CLS 63, further enhancing its sporting credentials. It’s a car that rewards skilled driving, allowing you to explore its limits with confidence and enjoyment. The combination of power, grip, and sophisticated suspension makes the 2015 CLS 63 AMG S II W218 a truly remarkable machine on the road.
The Verdict: A Legend in its Own Right
So, what's the final word on the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S II W218? Simply put, it's a legend. It perfectly blends aggressive AMG performance with the sophisticated elegance of the CLS lineup. This car offers supercar-level acceleration, a stunning design that turns heads, and a luxurious, tech-filled interior that cocoons its occupants in comfort. It’s a true grand tourer that can devour miles on the highway in supreme comfort, yet it’s also a thrilling sports sedan capable of exhilarating drives on winding roads. The V8 biturbo engine is a masterpiece, the handling is sharp and engaging thanks to the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive and adaptive suspension, and the build quality is, as you'd expect from Mercedes-Benz, exceptional. While it might not have the latest infotainment tech by today's standards, its core strengths – performance, style, and luxury – remain timeless. If you're looking for a car that offers serious power, undeniable presence, and a premium driving experience, the 2015 CLS 63 AMG S II W218 is an absolute winner. It's a car that appeals to the head and the heart, offering a compelling package for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life and demands performance to match. It represents a high point in the evolution of the four-door coupe and a benchmark for performance sedans of its era. It’s a testament to AMG’s engineering prowess and Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury and innovation. This car is more than just a vehicle; it's an experience. Whether you're a driving enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates automotive excellence, the 2015 CLS 63 AMG S II W218 is a machine that deserves recognition. It’s a car that you’ll not only enjoy driving but also enjoy owning, with its robust engineering and enduring style. It truly stands out as a modern classic in the Mercedes-Benz AMG lineup. The combination of raw power, refined luxury, and striking design makes it a highly desirable vehicle, even years after its release. It’s a car that truly embodies the spirit of AMG – "The Driving Performance". It's an investment in driving pleasure that continues to deliver.
