Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 coupe revealed; gets a twin-turbo straight six

Mild-hybrid, four-wheel drive coupe is quicker and more powerful than the E 53 coupe it replaces.

Published On Dec 08, 2023 08:00:00 AM

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Mercedes-AMG has revealed the new CLE 53 Coupe as an indirect replacement for the discontinued E 53 Coupe. Based on the recently revealed CLE-Class line-up, the hot new two-door gets significantly more power, more sporting exterior styling and an upgraded interior.

AMG CLE 53 Coupe does 0-100kph in 4.2 seconds
Has a 270kph top speed with optional package
Comes with standard 4Matic all-wheel drive tech

Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe engine, specs

Power comes from AMG’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine, supported by an integrated starter-generator (ISG) to make it a mild hybrid. It develops 448hp and 560Nm, with the ISG delivering an additional 23hp and 204Nm of torque for brief periods under acceleration. Drive is sent to both axles through a 9-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox.

The official 0-100kph time is put at 4.2 seconds – some 0.2 seconds faster than that claimed for the outgoing E53 Coupe. The top speed is limited to 250kph but can be increased to 270kph with an optional Driver’s Package.

The suspension of the standard CLE has been comprehensively reworked during the development of the CLE 53, which adopts AMG’s Ride Control suspension with continuously variable twin-valve dampers. Further changes are also directed at the steering. It receives new gearing and operates in combination with standard rear-wheel steering, offering up to 2.5deg of steering angle on the rear wheels.

Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe exterior and interior

Among the visual changes are a new front bumper with AMG’s signature Panamericana grille, and new standard LED headlamps that be enhanced with AMG’s Digital Light function as an option. There are also AMG-specific door mirrors, wider door sills, a restyled rear bumper and a deck spoiler. The standard AMG wheels measure 19-inches in diameter, with 20-inch rims available as an option.

The optional AMG Optics package brings additional styling changes, including flicks on the bumpers, a larger rear spoiler and a decorative diffuser board between the tail pipes. Adding to the sporty appearance are tracks that have been widened by 58mm at the front and 75mm at the rear, giving the CLE 53 a more assured stance than standard CLE models.

Inside, the BMW 4 Series Coupe rival receives a standard AMG Performance steering wheel together with AMG-specific digital graphics for the 12.3-inch instrument and 11.9-inch central infotainment display, among other individual touches. An optional AMG Dynamic Plus package brings firmer qualities to the underpinnings, active engine mounts, red brake calipers, a further enhanced interior as well as two additional driving modes: Race and Drift.

Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe: will it come to India?

Mercedes-AMG did bring the outgoing E53 to India in convertible form. It remains to be seen whether the AMG CLE 53 will make it to our shores in the future.

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