The 76th Geneva International Motor Show, the venue for so many debuts over the years, will see Mercedes-Benz officially launch its 'Saugmotor' AMG 6.3 litre V8 in the CLS, and CLK Coupé and Cabriolet model ranges. Both model ranges will benefit from a new AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission.

CLS 63 AMG

In the CLS 63, the new 378 kW/514 hp AMG power plant has the highest specific power and torque of any naturally aspirated eight-cylinder production engine in the world. This gives the four door coupé a 0 - 100 km/h (62 mph) time of just 4.5 seconds, on its way to a governed top speed of 250 km/h. In addition to the new gearbox the car also has new AMG sports suspension, based on the semiactive air suspension system AIRMATIC DC which incorporates the ADS II Adaptive Damping System, and an AMG high-performance brake system.

The coupé's bodywork also incorporates AMG styling elements, while the interior boasts a standard specification that includes AMG sports seats with nappa leather upholstery, an AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel with new aluminium AMG gearshift paddles and the new AMG instrument cluster with 320 km/h speedometer scale and red needles.

CLK 63 AMG Coupé and Cabriolet

In the CLK 63 AMG Coupé and Cabriolet models, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine produces more power and torque - 354 kW/481 hp and 630 Newton metres - than any other vehicle in this class. The cars also feature new AMG sports suspension and new 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. The AMG bodystyling includes a new, more distinctively contoured, front apron with side air vents. Inside the cars, like the CLS, multicontour AMG sports seats and exclusive nappa leather upholstery is standard.

Geneva will also see the European debut of the R63, facelifted SL-Class (including SL 55 AMG and SL 65 AMG), and GL-Class.

Text: Classic Driver
Photos: DaimlerChrysler