Mercedes-AMG: Comfortable muscle package
BENZINER WITH E-BOOST The AMG Coupé CLE 53 4Matic rounds off the new CLE series at the top end. It differs from the Mercedes-Benz version in terms of modifications to the exterior and the more powerful drivetrain.
Of course, the new Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4Matic+ is immediately recognizable by its exterior. The long hood embedded in the front end with the two powerful powerdomes is characteristic. The passenger compartment is set far to the rear and leads to the short rear end via flat front and rear windows. The front apron, which is raised in an A-shape in the middle section, allows a large lower air intake. Flared fenders at the front and rear, the enlarged track widths and the 19- or 20-inch wheels give the AMG Coupé a powerful appearance.
Everything under the AMG flag
The interior of the AMG CLE also differs significantly from the Benz models. Eye-catching features include the free-standing 12.3-inch instrument cluster, the portrait-format 11.9-inch central display and the ambient lighting, which sweeps in 64 colors from the center console to below the outer air vents. The integral seats in black man-made leather with AMG-specific graphics and red contrasting topstitching are another highlight. They are comfortable and offer firm lateral support. Upholstery in genuine leather is available on request.
However, the most important parts are hidden under the body: the drivetrain and the chassis. They turn the new coupé into a sporty, comfortable coupé saloon or a muscular sports car, depending on the driver's wishes and choice of mode.
Fast-thinking turbo engine
The showpiece is the in-line six-cylinder engine, which delivers 449 hp and 560 Nm from three liters of displacement thanks to numerous internal engine modifications as well as a new injection system and higher boost pressure, and even 600 Nm in the short term with e-boost from the integrated starter-generator. An additional electric compressor also ensures a more spontaneous response and improved torque build-up. Unlike in the Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 4Matic, the 9-speed Speedshift TCT transmission is equipped with a wet clutch instead of a torque converter. This enables super-fast gear changes and multiple downshifts, with an intermediate throttle function if the appropriate mode is selected. With the five driving programs Smooth, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual, the characteristics of the new 53 models can be set using the steering wheel rotary adjuster. The AMG Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, with the Race Pack even in 4.0 seconds, and maximum speeds of 250 and 270 km/h are specified. The fully variable all-wheel drive, rear-wheel steering as standard and Ride Control suspension leave nothing to be desired in terms of driving dynamics.
The 4.85 meter long and 1925 kilogram AMG 53 4Matic+ coupé is available at prices starting at 99,900 Swiss francs. And what can also be expected: AMG-style convertible joys are likely to be fulfilled in the near future.
