All-New AMG CLE53 Coupé Gets a Hybrid AWD Biturbo V6
Morphed New C & E Power Coupé Benefits a Little AMG CLE53 Magic
Now that there’s once again only one coupé to cover both its C and E ranges, Mercedes-AMG has ripped the covers off the significantly more powerful and tarted-up all-new two-door CLE53 Coupé.
Packing a hotter new biturbo AMG 3-liter straight-six gas lump strapped to a 48-volt integrated mild hybrid starter-generator, the sleek 443 HP AMG CLE 53 can rush to sixty in under four seconds and on to a 155-mph top speed, or 168 mph with the optional Driver’s Package. The hybrid system serves to back the gas engine up at lower engine speeds.
A Step Up on Benz’s Regular Straight Six
Said to be a significant step up on other versions of Benz’s straight-six, this AMG version gets optimized combustion chambers, redesigned inlet and exhaust ports and special new piston rings. Oh, yes, the there’s also a new turbocharger that works in conjunction with an electric auxiliary compressor to increase manifold pressure to 22 psi for a 12 second overboost.
All that drives CLE53’s rear-biased Mercedes 4Matic all-wheel-drive via the default AMG 9G-tronic nine speed automatic gearbox. This slush box is special in that it benefits a clutch pack instead of a torque converter. That 4Matic also system decouples the front axle when it is not required. AMG quotes around 30 mpg.
The CLE 53 gets AMG’s signature Panamericana grille LED headlamps that come with the option of AMG Digital Lighting, and a more aggro front bumper. Add AMG-specific wing mirrors, wider door sills, a fresh rear bumper, and a trunk spoiler. It comes with 19-inch AMG wheels, but 20s are available as an option.
Plenty Cool Touches Inside CLE53
Two-inch wider front and 3” broader rear tracks add to the CLE53 drama. Reworked AMG Ride Control suspension has continuously variable twin-valve dampers, revised steering gearing and up to 2.5 degrees of rear wheel steering too.
There’s am AMG Performance steering wheel AMG-specific graphics for the 12.3-inch dials and 11.9-inch central infotainment display, among other individual touches inside.
And optional AMG Optics package adds flicks to the bumpers, a larger rear spoiler, and other grotesque bits. And an optional AMG Dynamic Plus package brings firmer suspension. As well as active engine mounts, red brake calipers, more cabin titivation and extra Race and Drift driving modes. Expect AMG to ship the new CLE53 early in the new Year.
Images: Mercedes-AMG