Just watched a UK video on the CLE 53 cab and how the RPS option not only controls the actual exhaust sound being pipped in, but also controls the valves/flaps in the mufflers themselves which in itself is a good thing. Unfortunately for me this was not an option when my 25 was built. Furthermore, MBUSA indicates the AMG Real Performance Sound only pipes in the actual exhaust sound and mentions nothing about controlling the flaps in the mufflers. As I've *****ed about before MBUSA has done a poor job with the DOG and config as things were left out, included at a charge that were standard etc. etc. My build also shows 339 switchable engine sound as an option, what exactly does this reference? At the time I thought it was part of the dynamic + pkg or something, but that was quite some time ago. Does anyone here have a 25 with AMG Real Performance Sound and can you confirm for the US mkt exactly what it does?

With regard to the seats, there are two high level nappa options for the same price, one quilted and one not, is one supposed to be more lux focused, is there any difference in comfort? I went with the nappa grey stitch, if it's just the stitching then why the leather pattern change, why aren't they both quilted?

Appreciate the info/clarification.

 

My September 24 build has 339 AMG Real Performance Sound. I only drove my car about 200 miles before it got cold outside, so I haven’t pushed the car hard enough to see if the exhaust pops, but I haven’t seen any indication that it will pop. The AMG Performance Exhaust System and AMG Real Performance Sound are both listed as options for the CLE53 at MBUSA. Unfortunately, their configurator only lists the RPS option. I’m not sure what is the status of the PES.

 

did you ever try switching your pes to see what it does, even at idle in the garage?
any thoughts on the interior?

 

btw the quilted nappa is not offered in the cab

 

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^bump

 

I’m pretty sure my car doesn’t have the PES. My car doesn’t sound like any AMG that I ever heard. My wife is happy that it’s quiet car.

I think it was this YouTuber that loved how the coupe sounded during the press tour, but was disappointed when he got one in the UK. Now, test drives of the cab have impressive sounds. Any bets me what it will sound like in the UK?

 

but you have the switchable engine sound 339 correct? have you tested it?

 

Yes. It makes a more pronounced engine sound in the interior. It’s loud enough that my wife notices and asks me to turn it off. 🤣

 

Lol.
Cool so it sounds like (no pun intended), it’s what they now call pes.

 

When ordering my 2025 CLE 53 Coupe this September 339 Switchable Engine Sound somehow made it on the configuration list as a no cost option. Same goes for the 293 Rear Side Airbags. The former did show up at delivery on the window sticker as 339 AMG Real Performance Sound with an option price of $550. The Rear Side Airbags were not listed though installed.

Haven't owned a vehicle with piped-in engine or exhaust sound before. Having read about the tricks used by most all other performance car manufacturers it seemed too fake. Synthesized sounds, recordings, and in VW/Audi's case - using the front windscreen as a speaker element (SoundAktor). At all "sounded" like something I didn't want any part of. Anyway, back on topic ..

In RBR's YT video "2024 CLE 53 UK Drive: AMG Fans Beware" comments eventually focused on omission of the 339 AMG Real Performance Sound option. After contacting his sources at AMG Germany he states "from what I can gather" that the option will allow you to control the exhaust valves in modes other than Sports+ or Race. Conversation starts around the 9:40 mark in his video.

Since then I have researched the AMG Real Performance Sound feature and have found that this assumption is likely incorrect as it has no reported effect on the AMG Performance Exhaust System mechanical valve settings. AI Chatbot summary as follows:
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The actual mechanical control of the exhaust valves in the AMG Performance Exhaust System, which comes as standard on many AMG models, is managed by the vehicle's engine management system or driving mode settings. These valves open or close to adjust the exhaust flow for performance or sound, but this function is separate from the AMG Real Performance Sound feature. The latter enhances what you hear inside the car but doesn't directly adjust how the exhaust system mechanically operates to produce that sound.

_________________

This seems consistent with my very limited use of the various settings when driving so far - haven't yet explored Sport+ or Race. As for the AMG Real Performance Sound produced while driving around in comfort mode, toggling between the two available output levels - the jury's still out here.

Interesting that RBR has another take on this in their "AMG CLE 53 Cabriolet First Drive" Y/T video linked above. Commenting on the AMG Real Performance Sound option starting around the 11:50 mark the favorable impression given nears a surrender as "that's the way it is in this day and age".

On the dealership floor my S/A tried a known trick to supposedly open the exhaust system valves at startup - have seen it mentioned here before. Somewhat impressive, though sitting in the car it's apparent that the AMG Real Performance Sound being piped in might have overshadowing the actual exhaust note. Will need to try it again with someone else behind the wheel while monitoring the tail pipe output. Another chatbot summary:
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By holding the left steering wheel paddle at startup, you can activate what is often referred to as "cold start" or "start-up pops and bangs." This action tricks the car into thinking you're in a high-performance mode, and as a result:

• Exhaust Valves Open: The mechanical valves in the exhaust system open, allowing for a richer, louder exhaust note from the moment the engine starts. This can create the characteristic pops and bangs during startup, especially if there's unburnt fuel in the exhaust system.
• Performance Mode Activation: Essentially, it's a way to experience the full sound of the exhaust without needing to switch into Sport+ or Race mode manually.

This trick is popular among AMG enthusiasts for showcasing the car's aggressive exhaust sound right from the get-go.

 

Thx good input.
Mine too has the switchable exhaust and RSAB's on my build, but PES wasn't available until later (mine was a very late end of Oct build and is on the water). What I like about the PES is its actual sound from the exhaust itself and not fabricated/enhanced, if I had the choice, I would have ordered it for the ~$550. I think AMG/MB has made some changes to the way the original switchable exhaust works and yes, many brands including MB have the valves set up to the drive mode being used.
When ours arrives next week, it will be sitting at the dealership until I return back to CA mid Jan.
Are you loving yours?

 

This “trick” has been called Emotion Start. It worked on my E53 coupe, but not my CLE 53.

 

that sux
next step would be starting car in s+ and locating/pulling fuse for flaps. Hopefully it won’t throw a code.

 

It was a bit warmer today to I took my car out and put in race mode. Accelerated and braked aggressively and no exhaust pops.

 

Thx for trying. I now have no idea what the switchable exhaust does/is supposed to do