Mercedes CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake: Performance And Practicality

The Mercedes CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake redefines what a luxury performance estate can achieve, combining the sleek lines of a coupe with the utility of a wagon. Powered by a formidable 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, this vehicle delivers exhilarating acceleration while offering ample cargo space for everyday needs. Introduced as part of Mercedes’ innovative CLS lineup, the Shooting Brake variant stands out for its unique ‘four-door coupe’ aesthetic extended into a practical rear hatch design.

Engineering Excellence Under the Hood

At the core of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake lies a handcrafted 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine, initially tuned to produce 525 horsepower before upgrades boosted it to 557 hp and 720 Nm of torque. This powerplant propels the car from 0-100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, with top speeds electronically limited to 250 km/h—though an optional Driver’s Package unlocks up to 280 km/h. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive version shaves this sprint time to 3.8 seconds, enhancing traction in varied conditions.

Mercedes-AMG pairs this engine with a 7-speed Speedshift MCT transmission, featuring multi-clutch technology that eliminates the traditional torque converter for lightning-fast shifts as quick as 100 milliseconds in Sport+ and Manual modes. Drivers can select from multiple drive modes—Controlled Efficiency for relaxed cruising, Sport, Sport+, and Manual—allowing tailored performance dynamics.

• Engine Specs: 5.5L twin-turbo V8, 557 hp, 720 Nm torque (base RWD model)
• 4MATIC S-Model Upgrade: 585 hp, 800 Nm torque, 0-62 mph in 3.7 seconds
• Fuel Economy: Combined 26.6 mpg, emissions around 243 g/km

Chassis and Handling Dynamics

Despite its substantial size and weight—around 1,955 kg—the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake handles with surprising agility. The suspension employs advanced adaptive damping, providing a balance between comfort on long hauls and sharpness through corners. Reviewers praise the steering for its precise feel, especially with the optional Alcantara-wrapped wheel, transmitting road feedback directly to the driver.

On twisty country roads, the car exhibits controlled body roll and predictable weight transfer, enabling playful drifts when the stability control is in Sport mode. High-speed stability shines on autobahns, where it maintains composure beyond 200 km/h without the turbocharged V8 showing signs of strain compared to naturally aspirated predecessors. The Shooting Brake body adds minimal weight (about 33 pounds more than the coupe), yet enhances rear-end traction for dynamic driving.

Braking Prowess and Optional Upgrades

Stopping power matches the acceleration, courtesy of massive optional carbon-ceramic brakes: 402 mm front discs with six-piston calipers and 360 mm rears with four-piston calipers. These are 40% lighter than standard steel brakes (360 mm all around), reducing unsprung weight for improved agility and fade resistance. Even standard brakes perform admirably, but the ceramics elevate track-day confidence.

Other AMG enhancements include 19-inch alloys, aggressive body styling with flared wheel arches, and a lowered stance that amplifies its muscular presence. The exhaust system delivers a thunderous V8 roar in aggressive modes, transitioning to refined quietude in Efficiency mode.

Interior Luxury and Shooting Brake Versatility

Step inside, and the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake envelops occupants in premium materials—leather, Alcantara, and carbon fiber accents. The front seats offer exceptional support with AMG badging, while the rear accommodates adults comfortably despite the coupe-like roofline. The Shooting Brake’s defining feature is its cargo area: a wide hatch reveals 520 liters of space with seats up, expanding significantly when folded, outpacing traditional sedans.

Technology abounds with the COMAND infotainment system, navigation, premium audio, and driver aids like adaptive cruise control. Build quality exudes Mercedes’ hallmark refinement, making it suitable for grand touring as much as spirited drives.

Real-World Driving Impressions

Drivers report effortless overtaking grunt in any gear, thanks to the broad torque band from low revs. On motorways, it cruises silently at legal speeds, transforming into a beast with a throttle stab. Corners reveal a playful side—rear-wheel-drive models invite slides, while 4MATIC variants grip tenaciously, rivaling Audi Quattro and BMW xDrive systems.

Daily usability shines: light steering for urban maneuvers, compliant ride quality, and paddle shifters for manual control keep engagement high. Fuel thirst is expected for such power—real-world figures hover around 20-25 mpg combined—but the visceral experience compensates.

Pros and Cons from Owners and Experts

• Pros: Explosive performance, luxurious interior, unique styling, practical boot space, superb brakes
• Cons: High fuel consumption, potential rear suspension issues (self-leveling pump common), premium maintenance costs, less practical than full wagons like E-Class

Long-term ownership reveals reliability akin to other Mercedes estates, with minor leaks or A/C fixes noted, but overall durability over 30,000 miles.

Performance Benchmarks Comparison

Stacked against rivals, the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake holds its own:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the top speed of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake?

Electronically limited to 250 km/h standard, upgradable to 280 km/h with the AMG Driver’s Package.

Is the Shooting Brake more practical than the CLS Coupe?

Yes, it offers significantly more cargo volume with the rear hatch and foldable seats, ideal for families or gear-hauling.

How does 4MATIC compare to rear-wheel drive?

4MATIC provides better acceleration (3.8s vs 4.2s) and all-weather traction, while RWD offers purer handling dynamics.

What are common maintenance issues?

Rear self-leveling suspension pumps and minor oil leaks, but generally reliable for high-mileage use.

Is it suitable for daily driving?

Absolutely—comfortable ride, quiet cabin, and versatile space make it a refined grand tourer.

Legacy and Market Position

The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake carved a niche as a ‘supercar estate,’ blending E-Class practicality with CLS elegance and AMG fury. Though production ended years ago, used examples remain desirable for their blend of rarity, performance, and luxury. In today’s market, they appeal to enthusiasts seeking a alternative to ubiquitous SUVs.

Mercedes’ bold ‘Shooting Brake’ concept influenced future models, proving estates could be stylish and potent. Whether blasting down highways or loading weekend cargo, this car delivers uncompromised thrills.