Mercedes-Benz’ move to kill a couple of its popular coupes didn’t resonate with many fans of the segment, but the German automaker’s got something they can look forward to now.
No doubt Mercedes-Benz coupe fans were disappointed upon hearing the news that Mercedes-Benz was killing both its E-Class and C-Class coupes. But they might be heartened now that Mercedes-Benz is replacing them both with the CLE 300 and CLE 450. Now comes its hardcore sibling: the Mercedes-AMG CL 53.
It’s powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine and 48-volt integrated starter/generator mated to an AMG Speedshift 9-speed automatic transmission routing its power through AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable all-wheel drive.
Generating 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, the turbocharger and a new electric auxiliary compressor can raise torque to 443 pound-feet for up to 12 seconds. The new 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 53 improves markedly of the CLE 450, which uses a tamer version of the same powertrain, rated at 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. And it’s a clear upgrade from the base CLE 300’s 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.
It all comes down to numbers. And the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 53’s are mouthwatering, running 0-60 mph in an estimated 4 seconds on the way to a 155-mph top speed.
More than merely more power
The driveline comes with five AMG Dynamic Select drive programs: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual and integrates AMG Dynamics. The latter anticipates the desired vehicle behavior based on the driver’s actions and sensor
data and varies the electronic stability control and all-wheel drive appropriately in Basic, Advanced or Pro performance levels. These parameters can be selected directly through steering wheel buttons.
Regardless of drive mode, the transmission can be shifted manually through the steering wheel paddle shifters.
As you’d probably expect, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 53 also comes equipped with AMG Ride Control, with steel spring suspension with adaptive adjustable damping at each wheel, depending on whether Classic, Sport or Sport+ ride control mode is selected.
Three-stage speed-sensitive steering that varies depending on the five AMG Dynamic Select drive program. The CLE 53 also comes with speed-sensitive steering, allowing the rear wheels a maximum steering angle of 2.5 degrees. They turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels up to 60 mph, after which they turn in parallel to the front wheels, up to 0.7 degrees.
Style, style, style
No automaker would add extra juice under the snout and not refine a vehicle’s appearance. And so it is with the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 53. The CLE-Class doesn’t inherit the E-Class’s pillarless design, opting instead for the less-expensive look of the C-Class. Yet the CLE is slightly longer than the outgoing E-Class Coupe, and its 12.8 cubic-foot trunk tops the E coupe’s 10 cubic foot cargo hold.
But 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 53’s look is enhanced with an AMG-specific radiator grille and flat, sharply cut LED headlights. Mercedes-Benz advanced Digital Light system is optional. Flared front and rear fenders widen the CLE 53’s track by 2.3 inches up front and 3 inches in the rear. Nineteen-inch wheels are standard; 20-inch wheels are optional.
But buyers can gild the lily by ordering the optional AMG Performance Studio Package, which visually enhances the front and rear fascia, while adding a more pronounced spoiler lip on the trunk lid and a rear diffuser board between the tailpipes. Two AMG Night packages and two AMG Carbon Fiber packages are also available.
The design upgrades continue inside, where you’ll find seats sheathed in MB-Tex/microfiber upholstery with AMG-specific graphics and red contrast stitching. Nappa leather upholstery with embossed AMG-embossed headrests is optional.
AMG Performance Seat Package features seats with more pronounced bolsters are also available. A two-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with a flattened bottom and AMG steering wheel buttons is standard.
A 12.3-inch digital driver display and an 11.9-inch vertical infotainment touchscreen come standard.
Mercedes-Benz didn’t announce pricing, but look for it to be announced closer to the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 53’s arrival next year.
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