km : Automotive News

A few weeks ago we got our first look at the new 2011 CL-class, a slightly updated version of the current car with a new set of V8 and V12 engines, both packing twin sets of turbochargers. If you're feeling a touch of deja vu today we don't blame you because well, Mercedes-Benz has just debuted a set of 2011 CLs, one with a twin-turbo V8 and another with a twin-turbo V12.

This second batch of cars is presumably late to the party because of the difficulty of breaking out of a mental hospital. These two models, the CL63 AMG and CL65 AMG, are downright crazy. The top-dog CL65 AMG is actually nothing new; it has been breaking the necks of passengers for a few years now with 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of electronically-limited torque. Top speed is also cut short at 186 mph while a quoted 0-60 mph time is limited only by the traction of those poor 275-series tires at the rear.

More significant news comes under the hood of the CL63 AMG, where an already misleading 6.2-liter V8 has been replaced by the 5.5-liter twin-turbo unit that debuted this spring in an updated S63 AMG. The drop of 747 cc between these generations of engines doesn't mean less power, of course. A set of turbochargers ensures plenty of propulsion, delivering 536 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, unless one pays up for the optional AMG Performance Package. That option kicks the figures up to 563 and 664, respectively, pushing the CL63 very close to stepping on the toes of its big brother. Without the Performance Pack, the 63 does 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds and is limited to 155 mph. Pay more, and those numbers change to 4.3 seconds and 186 mph. All the while, you'll be achieving better (but unstated) fuel economy than last year's CL63. However, since turbochargers work to muffle sound, we're still pretty skeptical this new engine will make noises that could cause an avalanche.

Along with the exterior design updates of each model, a new "Splitview" dual-content infotainment screen is offered as a standalone option and a carbon-fiber trim kit is as well. Sales start in November.

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