Powered-up Coupe Heads New Mercedes-AMG CLE Lineup

Mercedes-AMG reveals the CLE53 4Matic+ Coupe as an indirect replacement for the discontinued E53 4Matic+ Coupe.

Set for North American sales in 2024, the 2-door performance model builds on standard CLE models with more sporting exterior styling, an upgraded interior and a powered-up 6-cyl. mild-hybrid engine delivering 13 more horsepower and 29-lb.-ft. (39 Nm) more torque than that of the model it replaces.  

Among the visual changes is the adoption of a new front bumper with AMG’s signature Panamericana grille and air-duct styling. The standard LED headlamps can be enhanced with Mercedes-AMG’s Digital Light functions as an option.

Among other signature features: AMG-specific exterior mirrors, wider door sills, a restyled rear bumper and a deck spoiler (pictured, below). Standard AMG wheels measure 19 ins. in diameter, with 20-inchers optional. An AMG Optics package includes flics on the bumpers, a larger rear spoiler and a so-called diffuser board between the tailpipes.

MB-AMG CLE53 rear 3.4

Tracks that have been widened by 2.2 ins. (56 mm) at the front and 3.0 ins. (76 mm) at the rear, giving the CLE53 a more assured stance than standard CLE models.

Inside, the performance coupe receives an AMG Performance steering wheel together with AMG-specific digital graphics for the 12.3-in. (31-cm) instrument screen and 11.9-in. (30-cm) central infotainment display. Options include AMG Sport seats and Nappa leather upholstery.

Power comes from Mercedes-AMG’s twin-turbocharged 3.0L inline 6-cyl. and integrated starter-generator (pictured, below). The engine develops 442 hp and 413 lb.-ft. (560 Nm) of torque, aided by an additional 22 hp and 151 lb.-ft. (205 Nm) from the ISG.

MB-AMG CLE53 engine bay

Drive is sent through a 9-speed torque converter-equipped AMG Speedshift TCT gearbox and fully variable AMG Performance 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.

The official 0-62 mph time is 4.2 seconds (250 km/h) – some 0.2 seconds quicker than the outgoing E53 4Matic+ Coupe. Top speed is limited to 155 mph (250 km/h) but can be increased to 168 mph (270 km/h) in combination with an optional Driver’s Package.

The standard CLE suspension is comprehensively reworked, adopting AMG’s Ride Control with continuously variable twin-valve shock absorbers. The steering receives new gearing and operates in combination with standard rear-wheel steering offering up to 2.5 degrees of steering angle on the rear wheels.

An optional AMG Dynamic Plus package brings a firmer suspension, active engine mounts, red brake calipers, an enhanced interior and two additional driving modes: Race and Drift.

MB-AMG CLE53 cabin