Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake

After giving Australian journalists a look at the Shooting Brake overseas, Mercedes has revealed details of the high-powered AMG version.

Under the bonnet it packs one heck of a punch with a 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine with a power output range of 386-410kW and an AMG SpeedShift MCT 7-speed sports transmission and AMG Ride Control sports suspension.

That generous boot allows up to 1550 litres of storage space, while the stylish interior will have many second guessing the practical nature of the Shooting Brake – and just to confuse you further, look out for the wooden luggage compartment flooring.

The proportions still aim to make it carry a coupe style. Glance at it again and you’ll notice there are five practical doors. But with an AMG workover, this is a sports car with five seats and plenty of bootspace – sting, style and a sensible package.

Mercedes-AMG GmbH Chairman Ola Kallenius claims the Shooting Brake will follow the company trend of creating a new market segment. "After the successes of the CLS 55 AMG and CLS 63 AMG, with the new CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake we are consistently pursuing the philosophy of offering our customers unrivalled, exciting high-performance cars.”

While Mercedes are eager to attract new buyers, Kallenius says existing customers will be equally delighted. “The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake is establishing a completely new, small and select niche sector, and is expected to delight new customers just as much as it will existing AMG enthusiasts. The combination of performance, style and usability is unique."

Sitting between the coupe and wagon markets, the Shooting Brake currently has no direct competition. However, a sporty, spacious and curiously good-looking car such as this will be highly appealing – young families are an obvious target, yet you’d expect interest from a range of other groups as well.