Sold – September 29th

My very first unsold 2012 CLS63 AMG just arrived at the dealership! I have only driven it around the parking lot and I am already impressed! This car is a show stopper! This particular car has the prettiest piece of Burl Walnut Wood I have ever seen! It is currently available for sale and ready to go to a new home! Call before you come by…it won’t last long.

2012 CLS63 AMG

• Black
• Black Premium Leather
• Premium 1 Package
• Parktronic
• Night View Assist Plus
• 19″ AMG Twin 5-spoke Forged Alloy Wheel
• Driver Assistance Package
• Wheel Locking Bolts
• Rear Side Airbags
• MSRP $106,725

Now is your chance! Mercedes-Benz is giving away a trip for you and 3 guests to attend the AMG Driving Academy in Laguna Seca before the end of the year! All you have to do is visit the MBUSA AMG Driving Academy Facebook Page, Like them and register to win! Make sure to share this with your Facebook friends…they can take you if they win! (and I would be happy to go again if you need a fourth!)

Enter now through September 15th. The winner wil be announced on September 21st and will receive:

• Attendance for for paticipants at the AMG Driving Academy Basic Course in Laguna Seca
• Round-Trip airfare for four from the nearest major airport
• Two nights of hotel accommodations
• Transportation from the hotel and airport
• $500 check

The fine print says you can only enter once, must be 21 years of age or older and US residents to win. Good Luck!

For great videos about what you’ll learn at the Academy, take a look at the Tommy Kendall series at the MBUSA YouTube channel!

Mercedes-Benz has just announced the Edition 1 version of the C63 Sedan and Coupe. Only 100 coupes and 60 sedans will be produced for the US market. They are expected to arrive in the fall.

2012 C63 AMG Edition 1 Coupe

• Estimated MSRP $77,740
• designo Magno Matte Night Black Paint
• Premium Black Nappa Leather with Red Contrast Stitching
• Premium 1 Package
• AMG Development Pacakge
• Lighting Package
• Rearview Camera
• Power Passenger Seat with Memory
• Voice Control
• COMAND with hard drive Navigation
• Aluminum Trim
• 19″ matte Black Multispoke Wheel
• Keyless Go

2012 C63 Edition 1 Sedan

• Estimated MSRP $69,790
• designo Magno Matte Alanite Paint
• Premium Black Nappa Leather with Red Contrast Stitching
• Premium 1 Package
• Power Driver and passenger Seat with Memory
• Voice Control
• COMAND with hard drive Naviagation
• Aluminum Trim
• 19″ Matte Black Multispoke Wheel
• Keyless Go

The 2012 SLK55 AMG has been announced for January of 2012!

Highlights from the official press release:
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. Its new AMG 5.5-liter V8 engine featuring cylinder shutoff combines the ultimate in performance with the lowest possible fuel consumption. With a peak output of 415 hp and maximum torque of 398 lb-ft, the 2012 SLK55 AMG is poised to outperform all of its direct competitors. High-performance driving is ensured thanks to the AMG sports suspension with Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brakes and 3-stage ESP®, as well as the AMG high-performance braking system. The 2012 SLK55 AMG will arrive in U.S. showrooms in early 2012.

The SLK55 AMG accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited).

Key figures at a glance
2012 SLK55 AMG
Displacement 5,461 cc
Bore x stroke 3.86 in x 3.56 in
Compression ratio 12.6 : 1
Output 415 hp at 6,800 rpm
Max. torque 398 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm
Engine weight (dry) 412 lbs
Acceleration 0 – 60 mph 4.5 s
Top speed 155 mph**
* provisional figures; ** electronically limited

In line with its “AMG Performance 2015″ strategy, the new V8 engine continues to reduce both the fuel consumption and emissions of new models over the next few years – while reaching new heights with the central brand claim of “Driving Performance”. At the same time, AMG is also demonstrating its social responsibility with the M152 engine.

Numerous design features are identical, such as the displacement, bore/stroke, distance between cylinders, ECO stop/start system and direct gasoline injection technology. Distinguishing features versus the M157 include the new intake air ducting, new cylinder heads, the modified valve drive, an adapted oil supply system and an optimized crankcase.

The AMG Cylinder Management cylinder shut-off system – developed completely by Mercedes-AMG – significantly improves efficiency: cylinders two, three, five and eight are cut off under partial load, which lowers fuel consumption considerably. In similar form, this technology is also used in the 750-hp V8 engines used in Formula 1. As efficiency also plays a major role at the pinnacle of motor racing, two or four of the eight cylinders are cut off e.g. when cornering at slow speed, during Safety Car laps or for pit stops.

Other measures to optimize efficiency:

weight-optimized cast aluminum pistons with special piston skirt coating
special ventilation holes in the crankcase
oil pump with electrically controlled pressure stage
separate oil pump for cylinder shut-off as a controllable, low-friction vane cell pump
engine cooling using especially efficient cross-flow principle
electronically controlled fuel pressure, fully variable and demand-related between 1,450 and 2,900 psi

The Controlled Efficiency stop/start function further contributes to the low fuel consumption. This system is standard equipment on the SLK55 AMG and active in the fuel economy transmission mode “C”. Once the driver brakes to a stop e.g. at a red traffic light, the V8 engine is automatically switched off. Once the brake pedal is released or the accelerator is depressed, the engine is immediately restarted and the car is able to move off quickly.

AMG is premiering a new sports exhaust system featuring an exhaust flap on each side. This technology resolves the trade off between an emotional exhaust note during spirited driving and a more discreet engine sound in the partial load range. The main focus of the sound design was to achieve a perfect synthesis of perceptible performance and the long-distance comfort that is a hallmark of Mercedes.

The AMG sports suspension with Torque Vectoring Brakes and AMG Direct- Steer system provides both impressive lateral dynamics as well as agile handling. Looking for a highly aggressive driving style or comfortable cruising? The new SLK55 AMG is able to offer both. Independent suspension struts with stiffer spring/damper tuning, torque strut bearings on the front axle featuring higher rigidity, stiffer stabilizers at all four corners as well as a more negative camber on the rear axle result in high cornering speeds and low body roll in fast S-shaped bends.

The optionally available AMG Handling Package enhances the vehicle’s sportiness even further. It comprises an AMG Performance suspension with stiffer tuning, an AMG rear axle differential lock, two-piece brake discs at the front and a three-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel finished in premium leather with Alcantara® inserts in the grip areas.

Classic roadster proportions with typical AMG design characteristics as well as a hint of the SLS AMG -are striking visual highlights of the 2012 SLK55 AMG. The AMG designers have complemented the exciting basic forms of the long hood, the greenhouse positioned well to the rear and crisp rear section with typical AMG styling at the front, sides and rear. The new AMG front apron has large air inlets and AMG-specific LED daytime running lights. Inspired by the SLS AMG super sports car, the wide radiator grill features a large, centrally-positioned Mercedes star. In the case of the SLK55 AMG, the slats in the front apron and the lower cross strut are painted in a high-gloss black finish. Darkened clear-lens headlamps and darkened bicolor tail lamps also come as standard exclusively on the top-of-the-range V8 model. Bi-Xenon headlights with Active Curve Illumination are also available as an optional extra.

The vent grilles with chrome-plated fins in the front fenders are not only reminiscent of the SLS AMG, but also evoke memories of the famous Mercedes- Benz 300 SL Roadster from the 1950s. The “V8 AMG” lettering beneath the grilles highlight the top-of-the-range eight-cylinder model from the rest of the SLK model series.

Functional, stylish, high-quality: the interior design of the SLK55 AMG is also reminiscent of its bigger brother, the SLS AMG Roadster. Associations with the super sports car are evoked courtesy of the four air vents in the style of jet engines, as well as the center console finished in brushed aluminum. Placed in the center of the dashboard is an AMG-specific analog clock featuring an IWC design.

The AMG sports seats feature optimized lateral support and premium leather upholstery with AMG badges in the backrests and standard AIRSCARF necklevel heating system.

The 2012 SLK55 AMG sets new standards when it comes to safety: a whole host of the latest assistance systems support the driver and help secure the new AMG Roadster’s exceptional position in its segment. Standard equipment includes new, fiber-reinforced roll-over bar, two-stage driver and front passenger airbags, headbags, thorax airbags, knee airbags, seat belt tensioner with belt force limiters, NECK-PRO crash-active head restraints, three-stage ESP® and also ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection.

“Out goes the familiar, naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine that has powered the E63 AMG since 2009. In comes the same twin-turbocharged, 5.5-liter V8 mill found in the CLS63, the S63 and the CL63 AMG.”

“The E63 was already among the fastest production sedans on sale in the U.S. market. With the switch to AMG’s latest engine, it not only gains a solid dose of added torque, but a further dimension in performance, with improved off-the-line acceleration, greater in-gear shove, more refined cruising traits and–as far as turbocharged powerplants go–a terrific baritone blare at full tilt.”

“With all of that torque concentrated so low in the range, you’re pretty much on top of it the moment you step away from the line. From there on, the performance builds in one linear surge all the way to redline. There’s no apparent turbo lag, and at pretty much any revs, in any gear, there is vast thrust. Speed builds quickly and, owing to the smoothness of the delivery, rather deceptively. “

“Those in the market for a rapid sedan will no doubt be tempted by the reworked E63. The changes AMG brought to its latest model make it a better everyday proposition while extending its haughty performance potential and providing it with impressive fuel economy when driven at posted limits.”

You can read the full review at the AutoWeek website.

Here is the telemetry video that was recorded while I was doing hot laps in the SLS AMG. You can see speed, g-forces and my track position on the “dashboard” as well as my perspective and my face while driving! It looks like I am talking to myself the whole time…I am! I was repeating all of the instruction I had gotten throughout the day – Drift left here, apex, eyes up, spot the next cone, apex, accelerate hard,  BRAKE! Also, when the instructor comes over the radio it was not me who had been too aggressive, it was the car behind me.

The AMG Academy comes back to Road Atlanta on Friday – You can visit the AMG Academy website for all the details.

Last Wednesday I was able to attend the 1-Day Basic Training at the AMG Driving Academy at Road Atlanta. It was even better than I remembered from last year! The vehicles we unbelievable – C63 AMG, E63 AMG, SLS AMG, SLK55 AMG – the staff was world class and the track was thrilling! All day the instructors  encouraged me to accelerate faster, brake harder and be more aggressive. In addition to having a great time, I think I also became a better driver. Here is the video I made during the event. Please pardon all the giggling…it is just so much fun!

There are still openings for the rest of the dates!

BASIC

• April 1, 2, 5, 7, 8 at Road Atlanta
• May 12, 13, 14, 18 and  June 14, 15, 16 at Lime Rock Park in Connecticut
• September, October and November Dates at Leguna Seca

ADVANCED

• April 3-4 at Road Atlanta
• May 16-17 at Lime Rock Park in Connecticut
• September 25-26 and October 23-24 at Leguna Seca

PRO

• April 9-11 at Road Atlanta
• November 10-12 at Leguna Seca

You can visit the website to contact the staff or book your dates. If you have an AMG you should go to see what your car can really do. If you are considering an AMG you should go to get  REAL test drive! Everyone should go – AMG owner or not!

Thank you AMG Driving Academy for an unparalleled experience!

The AMG Driving Academy is an amazing opportunity to drive the Mercedes-Benz of your dreams! And it is here at Road Atlanta! What could be better – a world renowned driving school in our own backyard! I was thrilled to attend the academy last summer  - I posted a review as well as a video of my fast lap that you can view.

There are 3 levels of the AMG Driving Academy: The 1-Day Basic Training, the 2-Day Advanced Training, and the 3-Day Pro Training. All 3 levels give you the opportunity to drive the E63 AMG, SLK55 AMG, C63 AMG, SL63AMG, CLK63 Black Series and the SLS AMG!

At Road Atlanta the dates are:

BASIC:

• March 14
• March 15
• March 16
• April 1
• April 2
• April 5
• April 7
• April 8

ADVANCED:

• April 3 & 4

PRO:

• April 9,10 & 11

You can also attend the AMG Driving Academy at Leguna Seca and Lime Rock Park. Collect all 3!

Contact the Academy through the website and the staff will be happy to get you registered. Don’t wait too long – the dates are filling up fast! This would be an exceptional early Mother’s or Father’s Day present! Anniversary? Birthday? Anything! It is a fantastic day that you will talk about for years to come! Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions!

Mercedes-Benz recently offered the first test drives of the new 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG to a group of automotive journalists. The reviews are in…and it is a hit!

From Motortrend:

“The engine simply has power everywhere, all the time. There is no lag and there are no flat spots in the torque curve, just immediate acceleration all the time.”

“Shifts are fast and seamless, and even the most jaded clutch jockey would hard-pressed to find fault in how it operates as an automatic.”

“The front and rear bumpers are modeled after the SLS AMG supercar and add a menacing look.”

From Edmunds Inside Line:

“Any drivetrain setting besides C results in a well-intended evil itch to lurch forth like a giant eel grabbing a passing fish. “Yeah,” says engineer Eichler. “We wanted it to be a little more bad boy this time.”

“Dynamics are hugely improved via the new suspension and its custom settings and the Speedshift MCT transmission weighs less and can handle more torque, too. Fuel mileage is way up, and the passenger cabin remains a comfortable place for four adults.”

A friend at Mercedes-Benz USA shared these images of some designo vehicles that were on display at the LA Auto Show in 2010. The designo program has grown in recent years to include more vehicles, more colors and more combinations. For owners that are ready to branch out from the traditional…designo is Mercedes-Benz quality with a dramatic twist. There are not a lot of these custom vehicles on the road, so any chance to see them on a vehicle is a treat.

E63 in designo Mystic Blue

E-Class Cabriolet in designo Alanite

E-Class Cabriolet interior in designo Two-Tone Classic Red

SL63 AMG in designo Magno Night Black

Thanks Mike!