The AMG CLE 53 Coupe is the new entry point to performance coupes in the AMG stable, so it naturally gets more under the hood than the regular CLE, which uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder for 375 hp and 369 lb-ft in the CLE 450. This gets the AMG treatment for the new AMG CLE 53 Coupe so that it makes 443 hp and 413 lb-ft.
The mild-hybrid-assisted power plant has been upgraded with optimized combustion chambers, enhanced injection, a new exhaust gas turbocharger, and an electric auxiliary compressor. The new turbo boasts a 5.8 psi increase in boost pressure to 22 psi, which aids in the improved outputs. The engine in the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe also has an overboost function that sees torque increase to 443 lb-ft for up to 12 seconds. The 0-60 mph time comes to four seconds, according to Mercedes, with top speed electronically limited to 155 mph.
Power goes through a nine-speed automatic to all four wheels courtesy of the standard AMG Performance 4Matic+ fully variable all-wheel-drive system. The transmission can also be put into Sport+ mode for more immediate upshifts and downshifts in spirited driving, and there are paddle shifters for those who prefer a hands-on approach.
Spirited driving is clearly the focus here, with the AMG Dynamic Select drive programs allowing you to choose between Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual. The AMG Dynamics selection allows you to control the strategies of the ESP and AWD systems, and three damping maps prioritize either driving comfort or dynamic driving. An AMG Ride Control suspension is standard, and there’s even a Drift mode that sends power to the rear wheels for when you absolutely have to put the tail out.
The new AMG CLE 53 Coupe comes with active rear-axle steering; the virtual shortening or lengthening of the wheelbase makes this a highly maneuverable car and also benefits overall stability. Of course, a high-performance braking system is standard to bring things to a standstill.
The second-gen integrated starter generator also takes on the function of a mild-hybrid system to allow seamless stop-start and gliding, but also to improve efficiency.