Spyshots: 2011 Mercedes CLS 63 AMG

Perhaps one of the most spied and, at the same time, most anticipated models of this year, the Mercedes CLS AMG still hasn't shed all of its Darth-like camo, some six months after we presented you the first set of spyshots showing the model.

Expected to be released onto the market sometime in 2011 (we know, in 2009 the rumor was the car will be released this year), the new model is likely to boast AMG's 5.5l engine developing around 544 horsepower. The unit will likely be paired with the SpeedShift MCT 7-speed transmission.

Until now, rumors were that the CLS will boast the 6.2l engine fitted on the 2010 E63 and CLS 63 AMG. But with all the downsizing going on in the industry and considering the similar power outputs of the two units, the 5.5l one is a more logical choice. It is unknown whether the 63 designation will be kept for the new CLS AMG, but keeping it would be the logical choice in order not to deter consumers.

Design wise, the CLS 63 AMG will borrow elements from the E-Klasse as well, but until photos with the car wearing less armor will be revealed, it's hard to see exactly what the eye-catching design cues will be.

As for the car which forms the basis of the CLS AMG, the CLS, it is also undergoing testing and is gearing up to enter production towards the end of the year. According to initial rumors, changes to the new model include the use of regular petrol V6s and V8s, as well as a diesel engine. The next CLS will also pack the hybrid system used on the S400 BlueHybrid.