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2026 Mercedes CLE53A4 AMG Cabriolet and 2025 MAYBACH EQS680V4
Originally Posted by superswiss
Unfortunately the larger brakes with the 6 piston calipers are no longer part of the package for 2025. It's now just the standard 4 piston setup painted red.
'08 BMW 335i Coupe '15 E400 Sedan '25 CLE 53 Coupe
Have addressed this on another thread.
Originally Posted by superswiss
Unfortunately the larger brakes with the 6 piston calipers are no longer part of the package for 2025. It's now just the standard 4 piston setup painted red.
Not sure what you are addressing there. The pictures you posted are not of the composite rotors. The composite rotors are 2-piece rotors, with the hat and ring separated by pins.
Expecting my build to lock any day now, made a few updates today after getting the opportunity to see some colors and different interiors, my last decision to make is Obsidian or Alpine?
It was an overcast day but the way the lines worked on Obsidian made the rear end look wider than all the other colors. Up close I preferred Alpine, the Obsidian had swirl marks which was a turn off up close, both needed a wash.
'08 BMW 335i Coupe '15 E400 Sedan '25 CLE 53 Coupe
While not as obvious as other examples such as the one you provided, the CLE53 optional "composite rotors" as specified by MBZ appear to be two piece construction. The grayish hat is likely a forged aluminum alloy affixed to an iron or high carbon steel disc. Not sure how the two are joined, have seen similar two piece rotors on other makes/models.
Originally Posted by superswiss
Not sure what you are addressing there. The pictures you posted are not of the composite rotors. The composite rotors are 2-piece rotors, with the hat and ring separated by pins.
Snapped a quickie iPhone pic on delivery of the 2025 CLE53 - might be a slight improvement over the configurator image.
Edit/Add: Ran it past the xAI chatbot for an explanation:
___________________
"For Mercedes-AMG models like your CLE53, the joining method for the composite rotors (aluminum hat with cast-iron or high-carbon steel friction ring) is a specialized casting process rather than external bolts or pins. Specifically, the forged aluminum hat features internal projections or "teeth" around its outer edge, and the cast-iron ring is formed directly around these during a high-speed spinning casting procedure. This creates a mechanically interlocked bond without welding (which is challenging between aluminum and iron due to differing melting points and expansion rates), ensuring the assembly can handle thermal stresses while minimizing heat transfer to the hub.
The lack of visible fasteners in your photo is by design—the integration happens internally during manufacturing, resulting in a seamless appearance from the outside, with no protruding bolts or rivets like on some BMW or aftermarket rotors. This "cast-in-place" approach also enhances durability, reduces vibration, and contributes to the rotor's floating characteristics for better performance under repeated hard braking."
Last edited by J.Raymond; Sep 20, 2025 at 08:06 PM.
While not as obvious as other examples such as the one you provided, the CLE53 optional "composite rotors" as specified by MBZ appear to be two piece construction. The grayish hat is likely a forged aluminum alloy affixed to an iron or high carbon steel disc. Not sure how the two are joined, have seen similar two piece rotors on other makes/models.
Snapped a quickie iPhone pic on delivery of the 2025 CLE53 - might be a slight improvement over the configurator image.
I believe that's just a zinc coating. Proper 2-piece rotors have aluminum hats to save weight. Aluminum isn't gray and doesn't need any coating, but single piece rotors need coating on the hat so it doesn't start to rust. Pretty sure those are single piece rotors you have there and the rest is probably marketing.
The other type of 2-piece rotors are the full-floating rotors. Those are attached to the hat using springs, so they can expand laterally. Those are also easily recognized by the screws that hold the springs together and attach the floating ring to the hat. The ones I've posted above are known as semi-floating. I replaced those with full-floating Brembos on my C63S Coupe.
Last edited by superswiss; Sep 20, 2025 at 08:14 PM.
'08 BMW 335i Coupe '15 E400 Sedan '25 CLE 53 Coupe
Aluminum where exposed to such conditions does indeed need coating or passivation to prevent corrosion.
Originally Posted by superswiss
Aluminum isn't gray and doesn't need any coating, but single piece rotors need coating on the hat so it doesn't start to rust. Pretty sure those are single piece rotors you have there and the rest is probably marketing.
As to the grayish color - a further response:
"The grayish color of the aluminum alloy hat on two-piece brake rotors, such as those in the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53's Dynamic Plus Package, is primarily due to the anodizing process applied during manufacturing. Anodizing creates a durable, corrosion-resistant oxide layer on the aluminum surface through an electrochemical treatment, which naturally results in a matte or frosted gray appearance without added dyes (though pigments can sometimes enhance the gray tone for consistency or aesthetics). This finish protects against oxidation, heat-induced discoloration, and environmental wear while maintaining the lightweight benefits of aluminum."
It's difficult to imagine that MBZ would specify the brake rotors as "composite construction" solely as a marketing ploy.
Expecting my build to lock any day now, made a few updates today after getting the opportunity to see some colors and different interiors, my last decision to make is Obsidian or Alpine?
It was an overcast day but the way the lines worked on Obsidian made the rear end look wider than all the other colors. Up close I preferred Alpine, the Obsidian had swirl marks which was a turn off up close, both needed a wash.
I had the same struggle. Went Obsidian Black and it was 100% the right call. I don’t love the black plastic piece that unifies the taillights, so OB hides it well and makes the piece look more intentional
I was worried about swirl marks when washing, but I’ve developed a great and new cleaning system that involves a power washer, leaf blower, new soap, and expensive drying towels. Car looks great after several washes!
While not as obvious as other examples such as the one you provided, the CLE53 optional "composite rotors" as specified by MBZ appear to be two piece construction. The grayish hat is likely a forged aluminum alloy affixed to an iron or high carbon steel disc. Not sure how the two are joined, have seen similar two piece rotors on other makes/models.
Snapped a quickie iPhone pic on delivery of the 2025 CLE53 - might be a slight improvement over the configurator image.
Edit/Add: Ran it past the xAI chatbot for an explanation:
___________________
"For Mercedes-AMG models like your CLE53, the joining method for the composite rotors (aluminum hat with cast-iron or high-carbon steel friction ring) is a specialized casting process rather than external bolts or pins. Specifically, the forged aluminum hat features internal projections or "teeth" around its outer edge, and the cast-iron ring is formed directly around these during a high-speed spinning casting procedure. This creates a mechanically interlocked bond without welding (which is challenging between aluminum and iron due to differing melting points and expansion rates), ensuring the assembly can handle thermal stresses while minimizing heat transfer to the hub.
The lack of visible fasteners in your photo is by design—the integration happens internally during manufacturing, resulting in a seamless appearance from the outside, with no protruding bolts or rivets like on some BMW or aftermarket rotors. This "cast-in-place" approach also enhances durability, reduces vibration, and contributes to the rotor's floating characteristics for better performance under repeated hard braking."
Great wheels. I wish I had them. Mine came with the silver and black wheels which are a ***** to clean.
'08 BMW 335i Coupe '15 E400 Sedan '25 CLE 53 Coupe
Regardless of the online explanations, I have been puzzled by the homologous appearance of the "composite" brake rotor - and after researching this further undertook a closer inspection. Using a magnet on both the friction disc and then the rotor hat proved that the latter is not a non-ferrous aluminum alloy as expected.
Originally Posted by superswiss
I believe that's just a zinc coating. Proper 2-piece rotors have aluminum hats to save weight. Aluminum isn't gray and doesn't need any coating, but single piece rotors need coating on the hat so it doesn't start to rust. Pretty sure those are single piece rotors you have there and the rest is probably marketing.
It appears that MBZ may have used a cast iron friction ring press-fitted to a sheet steel hat. Therefore they can technically term them as "composite" since they use two different materials in the two-piece assembly. While they are not "single piece rotors" they are also not aluminum hat two-piece rotors consistent with the term "composite" where applied to other AMG vehicles. So yes indeed - there is a definite marketing component.
.
Last edited by J.Raymond; Sep 22, 2025 at 10:15 PM.
Regardless of the online explanations, I have been puzzled by the homologous appearance of the "composite" brake rotor - and after researching this further undertook a closer inspection. Using a magnet on both the friction disc and then the rotor hat proved that the latter is not a non-ferrous aluminum alloy as expected.
It appears that MBZ may have used a cast iron friction ring press-fitted to a sheet steel hat, Therefore they can technically term them as "composite" since they use two different materials in the two-piece assembly. While they are not "single piece rotors" they are also not aluminum hat two-piece rotors consistent with the term "composite" where applied to other AMG vehicles. So yes indeed - there is a definite marketing component.
.
Yes, it is interesting that the hat has "teeth". I haven't really seen this before, but it fits your press fit theory to make sure the hat and ring don't slip against each other.
Last edited by superswiss; Sep 23, 2025 at 02:06 AM.
Appreciate all of the feedback, I updated my build.
Code Description Price
MODEL: 2026 CLE53C4 $76,300
197 Obsidian Black Metallic $750
651 Black MB-Tex / Microfiber w/ Red Stitching
Standard Accessories
01U Pre-installation for Navigation Services
14U Smartphone Integration
201 Rear-Axle Steering
232 Garage Door Opener
235 PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
241 Power front left seat with memory function
242 Passenger Seat Memory w/ adj. Thigh Support
275 Power Driver Seats with Memory
287 Split-Folding Rear Seats
293 Rear Side Airbags
299 PRE-SAFE®
30P Storage Space Package
310 Twin Cupholders
321 Fingerprint sensor
325 Centre airbag
32U Sound personalisation
345 Rain Sensor Wipers
34U Digital Extra: Remote Services Premium
351 eCall-Emergency System
355 Extended MBUX functions"
365 MB Navigation
367 Live Traffic
37U Remote Services Advanced
382 Communication module (5G) for the use of Digital Extras
413 Panorama Sunroof
421 9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic Transmission
459 Suspension with Adaptive Damping System
461 English Inscriptions
464 12.3" Digital Instrument Cluster
475 Tire Pressure Monitoring System
494 USA specification
501 Surround View Camera
51U Black Headliner
528 MBUX multimedia system
536 SiriusXM Radio with Free Trial Period
543 Pull-Out Sun Visor
551 Anti-Theft Alarm System
580 Dual Zone Climate Control
608 Adaptive High Beam Assist
75B USB Package
772 AMG Body Styling
810 Burmester® Surround Sound System
852 Advanced Alarm with Parking Collision Detection
868 12.3" Center Display
871 HANDS FREE ACCESS
873 Heated Front Seats
875 Heated Washer System
876 Premium Interior Lighting
881 Electronic Trunk Closer
887 Independent Trunk Locking
889 KEYLESS-GO®
88B Passive person presence reminder
891 Multi-Color Ambient Lighting
893 KEYLESS GO starting function
894 Ambient lighting Plus
896 Digital Extra: Digital vehicle key for smartphone
897 Inductive wireless charging and NFC pairing
916 Large Capacity Fuel Tank
94B Integrated Starter Generator Generation 2
B59 DYNAMIC SELECT
P17 KEYLESS-GO Package
P47 Surround View System
P49 Mirror Package
P82 GUARD 360° vehicle protection Plus with Digital Extras
PBG MBUX Navigation Premium
PTF Mercedes-AMG interior
PUF Mercedes-AMG exterior
RRD 19" AMG Multi-Spoke Wheels w/ Black Accents
U02 Seat Belt Extender
U10 Passenger Seat Weight Sensing System
U22 4-Way Lumbar Support
U26 AMG Floor Mats
U34 MB-Tex Dashboard with Nappa Look
U45 Illuminated Door Sills
U88 AMG DRIVE UNIT
U95 AMG spoiler lip
Options
DA2 Driver Assistance Package $1,950
233 Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC®
243 Active Lane Keeping Assist
266 Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC® with Active Steering Assist
272 Evasive manoeuvre support
292 Pre-Safe Impulse Side
513 Traffic Sign Assist
546 Active Speed Limit Assist
P20 Driver Assistance Package
DE6 AMG Dynamic Plus Package $2,000
P71 AMG Dynamic Plus Package
U70 Red Brake Calipers
DF1 AMG Night Package Plus $1,300
5U6 AMG-specific radiator grille, darkened
7U8 Model Badging in Black
P60 AMG Exterior Night Styling
PAZ AMG Night Package II
DX2 Pinnacle Trim $2,050
316 DIGITAL LIGHT
42U Pre-installation for projection function for symbols
43U Preinstallation for projection function for animations
444 Head-up display
PAX Projection functions for DIGITAL LIGHT with Digital Extras
PDC Premium Package with Digital Extras
U19 Augmented Video for Navigaton
12B Owners Manual
16U Apple CarPlayTM
17U Android Auto
21U Dashcam $200
249 Auto-dimming Driver and Rearview Mirrors
262 Rear sensors for the lane departure assistant
264 License Plate Holder
339 Switchable Engine Sound $550
443 Heated Steering Wheel $250
500 Power Folding Mirrors
517 HD Radio
587 Side Mirror Logo Projector
634 Omission of first-aid kit
636 Omission of Warning Triangle
668 Sea Packing & Dispatch
679 Product protection-partial protection
783 Radio remote control with panic switch
795 Metal Weave Center Console
806 Technical modifications
986 Identification label with VIN number
989 VIN Code
B01 EQ Boost 48V System
H08 Fineline Anthracite Wood
K32 Active Lane Change Assist
K33 Extended Restart in Stop-and-Go Traffic
K34 Route-Based Speed Action
L6K AMG Performance Steering Wheel in Nappa / Microfiber $500
PAV Winter Package
R02 All Season Tires
R66 Extended Mobility Tires
U01 Rear belt status indication in the instrument display
U50 Omission of Dark Tinted Windows – US Regulatory Requirement
Y05 Red Seat Belts
D07 Wheel Locking Bolts $170
SUBTOTAL $86,020
Just had mine coded by RJAUTOMOTIVE who commented above. Flawless experience, highly recommend it.
I've ordered a C53 but didn't include the AMG Dynamic Plus Package. It might see some occasional track use, I'm second-guessing my decision. I have about a week before my order is locked in and would love to hear from other enthusiasts. For anyone with experience do you think I'll regret not adding this package?
I think you will regret purchasing that vehicle as a whole. You should have went with a CLE 53. It's far Superior, it has a twin turbo V6 instead of a turbo four-cylinder which you can get in a Honda or Toyota and far more standard features than the C class
Good thing is once the car arrives, you can cancel it and get your deposit back. Definitely go for the CLE 53. You Will not regret it readyville
I think you will regret purchasing that vehicle as a whole. You should have went with a CLE 53. It's far Superior, it has a twin turbo V6 instead of a turbo four-cylinder which you can get in a Honda or Toyota and far more standard features than the C class
Good thing is once the car arrives, you can cancel it and get your deposit back. Definitely go for the CLE 53. You Will not regret it readyville
I think you're confused....the CLE 53 has an inline 6 cylinder....
"AMG-enhanced 3.0L inline-6 turbo engine with hybrid assist
The seamless power and natural balance of an inline-6 pair with another Mercedes-AMG tradition: a technological leap forward. The lightweight, fully beltless and comprehensively upgraded engine is also electrified: An Integrated Starter-Generator can supply up to 23 hp and recapture energy during deceleration. An improved electric auxiliary compressor enhances the response of a larger turbo with up to 22 psi of max boost. The gas engine outputs 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque on its own."
I think you're confused....the CLE 53 has an inline 6 cylinder....
"AMG-enhanced 3.0L inline-6 turbo engine with hybrid assist
The seamless power and natural balance of an inline-6 pair with another Mercedes-AMG tradition: a technological leap forward. The lightweight, fully beltless and comprehensively upgraded engine is also electrified: An Integrated Starter-Generator can supply up to 23 hp and recapture energy during deceleration. An improved electric auxiliary compressor enhances the response of a larger turbo with up to 22 psi of max boost. The gas engine outputs 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque on its own."
No confusion here. I owned the car. I have also driven the C-Class proposing to buy. The main point of my post was to simplistically explain that the CLE 53 is a much better car. If you want to get into the details, it's up to you. Also, the 23 horsepower you referencd regarding the starter generator is included in the 443 horsepower. I have also read that the CLE 53 put out over 490 horsepower on the Dyno. But we haven't understand do you know when the 10 extra PSI boost occurs?
No confusion here. I owned the car. I have also driven the C-Class proposing to buy. The main point of my post was to simplistically explain that the CLE 53 is a much better car. If you want to get into the details, it's up to you. Also, the 23 horsepower you referencd regarding the starter generator is included in the 443 horsepower. I have also read that the CLE 53 put out over 490 horsepower on the Dyno. But we haven't understand do you know when the 10 extra PSI boost occurs?
I don't believe you have because if you did you'd know the CLE 53 NEVER had a V6. My wife recently took delivery of her 2026 CLE 53 coupe in September, and I can asure you it has an inline 6.
And BTW, my quote in my previous post about the CLE 53 engine was straight off the Mercedes Benz build site....
A bit of confusion all around I suppose. OP ordered a CLE 53, but mistyped it. There's no C53. There's a C43 and a C63 and if OP ordered one of those, then this thread is in the wrong section.
The 53 models indeed have an inline 6 with a single turbo and an electric supercharger. No V6 biturbo. Details do matter. I do agree with the above poster that having driven the C63 SE and CLE 53 back to back on a track etc. the latter is the better car, which is unfortunate for AMG and much of the reason why both the C43 and C63 are being discontinued.
Yep, I can confirm my 2026 with Dynamic Package has 4-piston calipers. Still glad I added it for all the other bits, with Red being a bonus to improve the look with the 20" forged wheels. The brakes are plenty powerful for me.
'08 BMW 335i Coupe '15 E400 Sedan '25 CLE 53 Coupe
Have been waiting to validate my own observations - this was incentive enough.
Originally Posted by amg-formula1
Yep, I can confirm my 2026 with Dynamic Package has 4-piston calipers. Still glad I added it for all the other bits, with Red being a bonus to improve the look with the 20" forged wheels. The brakes are plenty powerful for me.
Just returned from the garage after pulling a front wheel for a closer look at the red brake calipers of my DYNAMIC PLUS Package optioned 2025 CLE 53. Even with the greater accessibility afforded by the cross-spoke forged wheels, my previous attempts using inspection mirrors couldn't confirm with certainty the six piston design claimed in the official 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe Quick Reference Guide - linked below:
Most every review since the MY2024 release has claimed that the DYNAMIC PLUS package front red brake calipers were larger six piston units - likely relying on the above document provided by MBZ. Close up inspection of online images displaying the optioned CLE 53 red front calipers shows that there is no discernible visual change in the external appearance throughout all model years.
Awhile back, forum member MASSC450 provided a close-up photo showing the dual scalloped structure of the outer red caliper casting, commenting that it was typical of a four piston design. I too caught that straightaway, though I fell back on MBZ's official description along with those written by reputable automotive journalists.
After discovering what could be described as creative marketing on the part of MBZ related to their use of the term "composite brake rotors" however accurate - the idea that MBZ would misrepresent something as basic caliper piston count still seems unimaginable. Wonder how the folks at Car & Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds and the like would handle retractions need be.
Will more closely review my quickie iPhone pics from this morning sometime later - and will be discussing the findings on this issue with my MBZ dealership in the coming weeks.
.
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Last edited by J.Raymond; Nov 9, 2025 at 06:02 PM.
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Slideshow: A one-of-one U.S.-spec Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster became even rarer after a factory-backed transformation at McLaren's headquarters.
