Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 2024 first drive review: The high-capacity coupe overcomes the volcano
TENERIFE, Canary Islands – New year 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class has a lot going for it. It doesn’t just replace either Grade C And Electronic class coupes, but it also had to take on the role of a convertible. As I experienced on the Spanish volcanic island of Tenerife off the coast of Africa, CLEAN 450 4Matic Cabriolet is a pleasantly comfortable and calm way to see the sights. It operates at a level far beyond what most drivers expect, but we’re not like most drivers, are we?
For drivers like me who crave more excitement, there’s yet another piece in the CLE puzzle: the 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe. It takes CLE 450is a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with 375 horsepower and increased output to 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. With overboost, torque peaks at 443 lb-ft for 10 seconds. Borrowed from Formula 1, an electric auxiliary compressor contributes to that overdrive when needed. On top of that, you’ll get an additional 23 horsepower and 151 lb-ft from the 48-volt mild hybrid system. AMGA nine-speed multi-clutch automatic transmission is standard along with AMG’s 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system.
The changes aren’t just limited to the powertrain. The AMG CLE 53 features vertical grille slats and a more rounded nose to blend in with its higher-performance siblings. The hood features more muscular lines and functional heat vents. More noticeably, the fenders are flared to cover the wider wheels and tires. The rear track was lengthened 3 inches while the front grew 2.3 inches. Parked next to the standard CLE, the AMG variant benefits from a sportier stance enhanced by a number of subtle aerodynamic enhancements. On its own, the AMG CLE 53 has an elegant, sporty style.
Inside, the cockpit mirrors the standard CLE, which in turn mimics the C-Class’s interior with a cascading dashboard, fixed instrument panel and large central touchscreen. AMG has additional sports seats with deep side bolsters, faux suede upholstery and striking red stitching. Completing the interior differences is a sports steering wheel with a driving mode button that allows additional sport and track modes to be set.
This all comes together quite nicely on the road. The increase in power is noticeable, as is the engine and exhaust note which is louder and more inspiring. The ride quality is also firmer, but not to the point where I’d consider it too firm or uncomfortable, as I still reached the end of my ride around Tenerife without feeling taxed. The AMG CLE 53 tackles turns with much more confidence and precision than the CLE 450, encouraging me to push a little harder with each successive turn. Four-wheel steering (up to 2.5 degrees of rear-axle steering) is standard, but you only really notice it when maneuvering in tight spots, and that’s a good thing. When you’re having fun on a twisty road, it doesn’t feel any different from traditional front-only steering.
In Sport driving mode, the transmission does a perfect job of selecting the right gear. It downshifts exactly where I normally hit the left shifter and remains in a high gear throughout the rpm range to get the best performance possible. I still like to choose my own gears, and the quick feedback from the paddles further solidifies my preference. However, the aggressive side bolsters get in the way of my elbows, forcing me to move the steering wheel about an inch further forward than I’d like.
The 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system provides ample traction when powering up, and you’ll have to deliberately push the wheel to make the tires make any noise. When driven conservatively, the AMG CLE 53 performs well and is suitably comfortable for a sport-focused variant. For everyday tasks, it is just as fun, convenient and easy to use as standard CLE.
Pricing has yet to be announced, but apparently the AMG CLE 53 will cost more than the CLE 450 4Matic Coupe, which costs $66,800 (including $1,150 destination charge). That price is suitable BMW car The M440i xDrive should likely land the AMG variant close BMW M4Its price ranges from 80,000 to 90,000 USD. I am confident an M4 will outperform the AMG CLE 53 on a winding road or track, but the Benz has the edge in terms of comfort, luxury and interior refinement. I also consider the CLE’s styling an advantage when compared to the BMW.
Judging from the CLE’s engine bay, it doesn’t look like an eight-cylinder AMG 63 would be a good fit, so I wouldn’t wait for that possible beast. Then again, coming up AMG GT Either way, it’s probably a better choice for the high-performance driver. It’s unclear whether Mercedes will offer the AMG CLE 53 as a convertible, but one can hope. Considering the available AMG body modifications, it certainly won’t be as easy as sawing off the roof.
Overall, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe is a sensible and welcome addition to the touring-focused CLE line. It offers a lot of excitement that other models lack, while still delivering impressive comfort and refinement. It’s a classier alternative to the edgier BMW 4 Series as well as its relative lack thereof Audi S5 coupe. Price can be the make or break factor in deciding whether it costs as much as a BMW M4 or not. Audi RS5. If performance is your priority after luxury and refinement, the AMG CLE 53 is the clear winner.
