Spied: 2011 Mercedes CLS AMG


On the heels of a "leaked" Mercedes-Benz CLS brochure, our spy photographers captured an AMG-tuned version running the Nürburgring Nordschleife during tests.

With little camo masking the nose, this prototype is clearly a work of AMG. Designers have implemented the usual barrage of go-fast goodies -- aggressive front bumper, pronounced side sills, integrated rear diffuser, bigger cross-drilled brakes, larger wheels, lowered ride height -- onto this edition. Look closer and you'll notice a quad exhaust and subtle trunk-mounted spoiler.

Set in between the LED-clad headlights is a simpler grille with a single horizontal bar in place of the regular edition's double elements. There also appears to be brake ducts hiding under a layer of cladding set ahead of the front wheel wells.

Rumors are indicating this CLS AMG is powered by the division's latest twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8, rather than the current 6.2-liter V-8. Insiders have told us the mill makes around 570 horsepower (up 63 horses), and that despite the smaller displacement, Mercedes product planners will likely keep the "63" badge so that owners don't feel shortchanged. Expect more information to arrive closer to its Paris Motor Show this October.

Thanks to: Motor Trend