If there’s anything that electrification does to the fiercest of cars, it’s civilize them. Look only at the new 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53.
The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 is the automaker’s entry-level performance coupe.
Now, that’s not so say that this isn’t a seductive source of amusement; it is. But past Mercedes-AMG C- and E-Class Coupes were frantic, furious and fast. More brutes than boulevardiers, they got their muscle from throaty V8s that made no apologies for their sheer mania.
While the 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 is technically the latest in the bloodline, it’s a somewhat different beast, while very much the same.
Designed to replace both the smaller, compact C-Class and larger, midsized E-Class Coupe, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 measures 191 inches long.
All dressed up
Good looking and fun? Yup.
Certainly, it dresses for its role, with the expected AMG-specific radiator grille and flat, sharply cut LED headlights.
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, as is Mercedes-Benz advanced Digital Light system.
Buyers can also opt for the 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.
UNDER THE HOOD
OK, this is not its best angle.
Power comes from a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine and a 48-volt integrated starter/generator mild-hybrid. It’s assisted by an AMG Speedshift 9-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable all-wheel drive.
Rated at 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, the turbocharger gets a new electric auxiliary compressor that boosts torque to 443 pound-feet for 12 seconds – perfect for those quick getaways. The new 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 improves on the tamer CLE 450, which comes with 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, and the secretarial CLE 300’s 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. In fact, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 reaches 60 mph in an estimated 4 seconds on the way to a 155-mph top speed.
Aiding and abetting its behavior are five AMG Dynamic Select drive programs: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual and integrates AMG Dynamics Basic, Advanced or Pro performance levels. Just dial in your preferences at the hit of a button. Among the parameters it changes is the speed-sensitive steering, which varies depending on the five AMG Dynamic Select drive program you choose. It also provides rear-wheel steering up to a maximum steering angle of 2.5 degrees.
More Mercedes-Benz Reviews
- First Drive: 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE 500 4Matic
- A Week With: 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe
- First Drive: 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 35
THE INSIDE STORY
The interior is a visual symphony of textures.
Excellent build quality and an opulent, luxurious interior are essential for premium coupes, and in both regards, the Mercedes-AMG 53 doesn’t disappoint. Being based on the C-Class, there’s no avoiding that this cabin looks like the nicest C-Class you’ll run across. Fair enough. The finishes, however, are extravagant and lavish, indulging its occupants with beautiful leather and premium detailing throughout.
As you might expect, the seats are fairly firm and extraordinarily supportive. But they are not the best for the broader of beam, as the side bolsters are not adjustable. But space is good in front, acceptable in the rear, and fairly good out back, where you’ll find 15 cubic feet of cargo capacity.
The instrument panel features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen with standard wireless Android Auto and Apple Car Play. We found the overly-sensitive touchscreen makes it ridiculously easy to hit the wrong spot on the screen. But the its large size was welcome. And kudos to the 17-speaker Burmester sound system’s clarity and quality.
SO, WHAT’S IT LIKE?
A truly delightful coupe.
As you might suspect, the CLE uses C-Class underpinnings, yet clearly has E-Class overtones, even though it lacks its big brother’s optional air suspension. So, its ride isn’t quite as polished even the vehicle is. The steering is nicely weighted and quick enough for enthusiastic driving, even if doesn’t return much in the way of road feel.
Acceleration is exactly what it should be: effortless. The driveline also sounds wonderful, emitting a burble and bark that’s pleasing without sounding juvenile. It’s just enough. Still, there will be those who will miss the previous AMG Coues’ outrageous V8 symphony. This new est AMG Coupe matches their strong and confident performance, but it’s not stupid. It’s a different personality, but one that should feel familiar, if not identical, from what has come before.
Prices start at $56,550 for a CLE 300, while our test vehicle started at $72,800.
While not a furious as past AMG Coupes, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 proves far more livable as a day-to-day option.
Tough job, but someone has to do it.