The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S represents the pinnacle of four-door grand tourer motoring, combining aggressive athleticism with refined luxury. This specific model year marked the zenith of the first-generation CLS-Class performance lineup, offering a compelling blend of handcrafted German engineering and brute force. For enthusiasts, it served as the accessible entry point into the world of AMG performance, sitting below the even more extreme CLS 63 AMG S E-Cell+ and providing a more visceral experience than the standard CLS 550. Its presence on the road signaled a driver-focused intent that was rare among its four-door competitors.
Design and Exterior Elegance
Visually, the 2014 CLS 63 AMG S commands attention with its low, wide stance, setting it apart from the more conservative luxury sedans of the era. The design language inherited from the C-Class but amplified through AMG-specific touches creates a aggressive yet elegant profile. Key visual identifiers include the distinctive AMG front bumper with its large air intakes, a rear diffuser that hugs the ground, and quad exhaust pipes that speak to its performance capabilities. The iconic AMG Panamericana grille is a bold statement, flanked by sharp LED headlights that provide exceptional visibility and a modern aesthetic.
Signature AMG Styling Elements
19-inch AMG alloy wheels in a multi-spoke design
Characteristic red-painted brake calipers
Side skirts and a prominent rear spoiler
LED daytime running lights integrated into the headlights
The S moniker is not merely a badge; it denotes a significant performance upgrade over the base CLS 63. This includes a more assertive suspension setup, larger brakes, and exclusive design cues that distinguish it from its less powerful sibling. The overall effect is a vehicle that looks ready for the track while still maintaining the comfort expected of a Mercedes-Benz.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2014 CLS 63 AMG S housed a handcrafted 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, a technological marvel for its time. This powerplant generated an impressive 544 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque, providing acceleration that is both immediate and sustained. The result is a sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds, a testament to the efficiency and power of the AMG engineering. This level of performance places it firmly in supercar territory, yet it remains approachable on a daily basis.
Advanced Transmission and Handling
Delivering this power to the rear wheels is the 7G-Tronic automatic transmission, a unit that shifts with lightning speed and precision. The inclusion of AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT technology allows for a more direct connection between the driver and the drivetrain, offering manual-style shifts via steering wheel paddles. Handling is confident and precise, thanks to the optional AMG Ride Control suspension and large ceramic composite brakes. The car feels planted at high speeds, making it a stable and thrilling companion for long journeys or spirited back-road drives.
Interior Luxury and Technology
Stepping inside the 2014 CLS 63 AMG S reveals a cabin that is the antithesis of the aggressive exterior. The focus is on luxury, comfort, and driver-centric ergonomics. Premium materials such as supple Nappa leather, brushed aluminum, and piano black lacquer are used extensively, creating an atmosphere of sophisticated refinement. The seats are supportive bolsters, providing excellent lateral support during aggressive cornering while remaining comfortable for long drives.
