2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 First Drive Review: Big-powered coupe tackles volcano - Autoblog (2024)

TENERIFE, Canary Islands – The new 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class has a lot on its plate. Not only does it replace both the C-Class and E-Class coupes, but it also has to fill the role of a convertible. As I experienced on the Spanish volcanic island of Tenerife off the coast of Africa, the CLE 450 4Matic Cabriolet is a delightfully comfortable and calm way to take in the scenery. It performs on a level that is well beyond what most drivers will ever desire, but we're not like most drivers, are we?

For drivers like myself who crave more excitement, there's yet another piece in the CLE puzzle: the 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe. It takes the CLE 450's 375-horsepower 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder and increases output to 443 hp and 413 pound-feet of torque. With an overboost function, torque peaks at 443 lb-ft for 10-second bursts. Borrowing from Formula 1, an electric auxiliary compressor contributes to that overboost when needed. On top of that, you get another 23 hp and 151 lb-ft from a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. AMG’s nine-speed multi-clutch automatic is standard along with AMG’s 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system.

The changes aren't limited to the powertrain, either. The AMG CLE 53 gets vertical grille slats and a more rounded nose to blend in with its higher-performance brethren. The hood features more muscular bulges and a functional heat extraction vent. More significantly, the fenders are flared out to cover wider wheels and tires. The rear track is stretched 3 inches while the front gains 2.3 inches. Parked next to the standard CLE, the AMG variant benefits from a more athletic stance that is enhanced by some subtle aerodynamic flourishes. On its own, the AMG CLE 53 is tastefully sporty.

2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 First Drive Review: Big-powered coupe tackles volcano - Autoblog (1)2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 First Drive Review: Big-powered coupe tackles volcano - Autoblog (2)

Inside, the co*ckpit mirrors the standard CLE, which in turn mimics the C-Class' interior with a cascading dashboard, a tacked-on instrument panel, and a large central touchscreen. The AMG does add sport seats with deep side bolsters, faux suede upholstery inserts and racy red stitching. Rounding out the interior differences is a sport steering wheel with a drive mode button that allows for additional sport and track settings.

This all comes together quite nicely on the road. The power increase is noticeable, as are the louder and more inspiring engine and exhaust noises. The ride quality is also firmer, but not to the point where I'd consider it too stiff or intrusive, as I still arrived at the end of the drive around Tenerife without feeling taxed. The AMG CLE 53 slices through turns with much more confidence and precision than the CLE 450, encouraging me to push just a bit harder with each successive bend. Four-wheel-steering (maxes out at 2.5 degrees of rear-axle steering) is standard, but you only really notice it when you're 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 the Sport drive mode, the transmission does an impeccable job of selecting the right gear. It downshifts precisely where I'd normally tap the left paddle and remains in gear high into the rev range to extract as much performance as possible. I still like choosing my own gears, and the quick response from the paddles reinforces my preference. The aggressive side bolsters do get in the way of my elbows though, forcing me to move the steering wheel about an inch further forward than I prefer.

The 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system delivers an abundance of traction when pouring on the power, and you'd have to deliberately nudge the wheel to get the tires to make any noise. When driven conservatively, the AMG CLE 53 is well-mannered and appropriately comfortable for a sport-focused variant. For everyday duties, it's just as enjoyable, convenient, and easy to live with as the standard CLE.

2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 First Drive Review: Big-powered coupe tackles volcano - Autoblog (3)

Pricing has not yet been announced, but it's obvious the AMG CLE 53 will cost more than the CLE 450 4Matic Coupe that rings in at $66,800 (including $1,150 in destination fees). That price is right there with the BMW M440i xDrive, so it's possible the AMG variant could land near the BMW M4's price range between $80,000 and $90,000. I'm confident an M4 would outperform the AMG CLE 53 on a winding road or track, but the Benz holds an advantage in regard to comfort, luxury, and interior refinement. I also count the CLE's styling as an advantage when compared to the BMW.

Judging from the CLE's engine bay, it doesn't seem likely that an eight-cylinder AMG 63 would fit, so I wouldn't hold out for that possible beast. Then again, the forthcoming AMG GT would likely be a better choice for high-performance drivers, anyway. It's unclear if Mercedes will offer the AMG CLE 53 as a convertible, but one could hope. Considering the existing AMG body modifications, it's certainly not going to be as easy as sawing off the roof.

Overall, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe is a logical and welcome addition to the touring-focused CLE lineup. It delivers plenty of excitement that the other models lack, while still providing impressive comfort and refinement. It's a classier alternative to the edgier BMW 4 Series as well as the comparably anemic Audi S5 coupe. Price may be the one variable that makes or breaks the decision if it's as expensive as a BMW M4 or Audi RS5. If your performance priorities come second to luxury and sophistication, the AMG CLE 53 is the clear winner.

2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 First Drive Review: Big-powered coupe tackles volcano - Autoblog (2024)

FAQs

How much is the 2024 Mercedes CLE Coupe? ›

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe starts at $56,500 MSRP and ushers in a new model series.

How much is the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53? ›

$80,000

What is the most powerful Mercedes car in the world? ›

The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance is the most powerful series production car the company has ever made.

Where are Mercedes-AMG engines built? ›

Every Mercedes-AMG is developed and built in its entirety in Affalterbach.

Who are the competitors of the Mercedes CLE? ›

The Mercedes CLE commands a slight price premium over its main rivals – the Audi A5 Coupé and the BMW Series – regardless of how you pay.

What is the difference between CLE 300 and 450? ›

The CLE 300 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the CLE 450 goes with a 3.0-liter turbo inline six that's good for 375 hp and 369 lb-ft.

What rank is Mercedes in the world? ›

November 21, 2023 – Mercedes-Benz has further expanded its leading position as the most valuable luxury automobile brand in the world in the current “Best Global Brands 2023” ranking. After five years in a row at number eight, the star now shines as the seventh most important brand in the world.

Which Mercedes class is highest? ›

INNOVATION. With every year, an S-Class represents not just the pinnacle of the automobile but the forefront.

Which car is powerful Mercedes or BMW? ›

Mercedes-Benz vs BMW: Which Brand Has Better Performance? Performance is a crucial factor to consider when buying a luxury car. BMW has a slight edge over Mercedes in terms of performance and driving dynamics. However, Mercedes offers a more refined and luxurious driving experience.

Are AMG 53 engines hand built? ›

All AMG engines - with the exception of the "35" M260 2.0 L Inline-4 Turbo and "43" M276 3.0 L V6 Bi-Turbo engine, as well as various other "43" and "53" models using the new M256 inline 6 engine - are hand built using a "one man, one engine" philosophy at the current AMG plant in Affalterbach, Germany.

Is AMG worth it? ›

An AMG Line model does still contain the high-performance engine of a standard non-Line AMG, but it just adds extra features to improve the car's looks, taking your Mercedes-Benz to the very highest level. It's probably not worth paying extra for if the only thing you care about is the drive quality.

What does AMG stand for? ›

Behind the Name AMG

AMG stands for Aufrecht, Melcher, and Großaspach. Aufrecht and Melcher were the German Mercedes-Benz engineers who developed the AMG engine as a racing engine in 1967, and Großaspach was the birthplace of Aufrecht.

What is the price of Mercedes-Benz CLE coupe? ›

Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe Expected Price ₹ 1.10 Cr, 2024 Launch Date, Bookings in India.

How much is a Mercedes coupe 2024? ›

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2024 prices range from $79,200 for the basic trim level Coupe C-Class base. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2024 comes in Convertible, Coupe and Sedan. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2024 is available in Premium Unleaded/Electric.

How much will a Mercedes CLE cost? ›

Arriving in U.S. dealerships in Q1 2024 and starting at $56,500, the 2024 CLE Coupe introduces a striking exterior design, spacious interior, innovative technology and mild hybrid powertrains.

How much is the CLS 2024? ›

The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class 2024 prices range from $183,600 for the basic trim level Sedan CLS-Class 4Matic+ (hybrid) The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class 2024 comes in Sedan.

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