CLE, MEET AMG®

The folks at Mercedes-Benz introduced the CLE-Class in July 2023 as a replacement to coupe and cabriolet versions of the C- and E-Class, which means the CLE 53 takes the place of the outgoing C 43 and E 53 coupes. This AMG®-modified coupe is 2.3 inches wider at the front and 3.0 inches wider in the back, which makes for a striking presence when you see it in person. AMG® also installs a creased power-domed hood, tweaked front fascia treatment, and circular quad exhaust finishers. Buyers can further augment the transformation with a AMG® Performance Studio package, that adds additional aerodynamic touches including a more pronounced trunk lid spoiler and rear diffuser. For even more aggression, seek one of two blackout AMG® Night packages or either AMG® Carbon Fiber package.

Folks who opt- in for the CLE 53 get a version of the mild-hybrid 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six that’s included in the CLE 450. Difference is, the AMG® version uses an electric supercharger improve engine response across the rev range and bump output to 443 hp and 413 lb-ft (or 443 lb-ft with overboost), decent but not world-changing bumps over the non-AMG® and outgoing E 53 I-6s or the previous-gen C 43’s twin-turbo V-6. We can’t forget to discuss the AMG® powertrain, including its wet-clutch nine-speed automatic, is notably more powerful and technically impressive than those from its BMW and Audi competitors.

MORE THAN A NICE EXTERIOR

Of course, the AMG® experience is more than just engine and aesthetics. Every CLE 53 is fitted with AMG® Ride Control suspension, which combines steel springs with dampers that continually adjust to the road surface. Drivers can choose Comfort, Sport, or Sport+ damper mapping via a small round digital display mounted to the dual split-spoke steering wheel or through the central infotainment screen. Variable AWD is also standard, and it’s a rear-biased system that completely decouples the front axle in situations that don’t require additional traction at the front end. The driver also has multiple stability control settings to further bias torque to the rear. Unlike the C 43 and E 53 it replaces, the CLE 53 comes standard with rear steering, a feature that isn’t available in either of its German peers. he system angles the rear wheels opposite of the fronts below 60 mph to aid maneuverability (tighter turning circle in parking lots, rotation in tight, fast corners) and steers with the front tires at higher speeds for superior stability. Rear steer aggression varies depending on the drive mode.

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