Mercedes-AMG taps into the electrified market for
the first time with a new range of cars that wear the '53' moniker. One of them
is the CLS 53 4Matic+, a range-topping model of the third-gen CLS, which has a
more aggressive exterior design, and sportier trim in the cabin.
The biggest change lies beneath its pretty
skin, where motivation comes from a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged
six-cylinder engine, with a
starter-alternator that feeds the 48-volt electrical system.
The combined output of 456 hp and 769 Nm of
torque is channeled to all four corners through a 9-speed auto. Naught to 100 km/h) takes only 4.5sec in the mild hybrid, and top speed is limited to 270 km/h with the optional AMG Driver's package, or 250 km/h without it.
Deep-pocketed enthusiasts will get to order the new
Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4Matic+ in the coming months, when they will likely spend
close to US$ 100,000 in the US of A, given that the old model, which can still be
had here, starts from US$ 75,150.
Until the top-of-the-line CLS goes on sale, though,
it can be viewed live at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show, where it will remain until
January 28. It can also be seen on video, as it celebrates its dynamic debut in
the first commercial.
