2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe gets electric and exhaust gas turbos

Replacing both the C-Class and E-Class coupes, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE has a couple of pairs of boots to fill, and its biggest kick yet will come in the form of this new AMG 53 model.

Unlike previous iterations of AMG, the numbering here seems pretty arbitrary, reflecting neither engine capacity nor power output. Mercedes-AMG’s 53 tier has come to represent a rung below Affalterbach’s all-out weaponry. Naturally, this leaves room for an even more potent 63 version.

In the meantime what we have is a three-liter straight six, with both a conventional exhaust gas turbocharger and an auxiliary electric compressor, which adds an extra 5.8 psi of boost for a combined 22 psi. There’s 443 hp at 5800-6100 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque on tap from just 2200 revs, with a 12-second overboost of 443 lb-ft also available when your right foot hits the floor. At lower speeds a 48-volt mild hybrid system that uses an integrated starter generator throws in an extra 23 hp and 151 lb-ft of twist.

All this ooomph gets sent to AMG’s Performance 4MATIC+ full variable all-wheel drive system via a nine-speed AMG Speedshift multi-clutch transmission. AMG claims it’ll make the dash from zero to 60 mph in four seconds flat. Top speed is limited to 155 mph.

There are no less than five different drive programs: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual, with each setting suitable parameters for engine, transmission, suspension and steering. Then there are the AMG Dynamics settings that control the ESP and all-wheel drive, which come in Basic, Advanced and Pro flavors. An optional Dynamics Plus pack throws in active engine mounts and a drift mode.

All CLE 53s come with rear axle steering and AMG Ride Control, with Comfort, Sport and Sport+ settings, dialing up the suspension stiffness appropriately. Braking comes courtesy of 14.6 x.14-inch perforated and vented discs with four-piston calipers on the front and 14.2 x 1-inch discs with floating calipers at the rear.

Distinguishing the 53 from lesser CLEs are twin power domes on the hood, an AMG-specific radiator grille and a unique front fascia with a raised “A-wing” middle section to increase airflow. Extended fenders contain 2.3-inches of wider track at the front and three inches at the rear and contain 19-inch wheels as standard, with 20-inchers on the options list. An AMG Performance Studio Package can also be specified that adds aero flics to the front and rear, plus a larger spoiler and diffuser. Further options include two Night Packages and two Carbon Fiber packages.

Upgrades to the cabin center on sports seats with synthetic MB-Tex upholstery and AMG graphics, with a Performance Seat Package available to up the ante. There’s also a flat-bottomed AMG Performance double spoke steering wheel and special AMG settings for the driver display called Classic, Sport and Supersport.

Expect pricing and an on-sale date to be announced early in 2024.