The Mercedes CLE Coupe family now has a compelling new variant in the form of the punchy 2024 CLE 53 4Matic+ Coupe and while it’s not the full-blown AMG model that some shoppers are probably waiting for, it does add some spice to the standard range.
Like other ‘53’ badged models from Mercedes-AMG, the CLE 53 4Matic+ Coupe uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six that has been updated with improved combustion chambers, new piston rings, optimized injection, and a new exhaust gas turbocharger. This engine works alongside the automaker’s second-generation integrated starter generator and a 48-volt electrical system that can add up to 23 hp and 151 lb-ft (205 Nm) of torque.
All up, the new model is good for 449 hp (330 kW) between 5,800 rpm and 6,100 rpm and 413 lb-ft (560 Nm) of torque or 443 lb-ft (600 Nm) with the Overboost function enabled. The engine is coupled to AMG’s familiar 9G ‘Speedshift’ transmission driving all four wheels. The CLE 53 4Matic+ Coupe deals with the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint in 4.2 seconds and can run through to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h) or 168 mph (270 km/h) with the optional AMG Driver’s Package.
The car can be driven in Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual configurations with areas such as the engine, transmission, chassis, and steering response all being adjusted between the different modes. Mercedes-AMG has also installed the car with a drift mode that switches it to rear-wheel drive at all times. This isn’t a mode we expect many owners to use, however.
A more important inclusion is the fitment of standard rear-axle steering that can turn the rear wheels by up to 2.5 degrees at speeds of up to 62 mph (100 km/h) and up to 0.7 degrees in parallel with the front wheels at speeds over 62 mph. There is also trick three-stage AMG steering and the AMG Ride Control suspension system designed to improve agility without sacrificing comfort.
Read: 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet Shows More Of Its Topless Silhouette
Visually, the CLE 53 4Matic+ Coupe immediately stands out from lesser variants. It includes a familiar AMG front grille with a more aggressive bumper. Mercedes designers have also flared the front arches by 58 mm and the rear arches by 75 mm, giving it a much more imposing presence on the road. A set of 19-inch wheels comes as standard with 20-inch shoes available too.
Changes continue at the rear with revised LED taillights connected with a dark red element. There is also a small lip spoiler, new twin tailpipes, and customers can also order the car with an AMG Optics pack that adds a larger diffuser, lip spoiler, and front and rear aerodynamic flics. Two AMG Night packages and AMG Carbon packages are also available.
Found in the cabin is a familiar flat-bottomed AMG Performance steering wheel wrapped in black leather and Alcantara. There is also plenty of carbon fiber across the dashboard, red contrast stitching, custom leather and microfiber-clad seats, and various leather and Nappa leather options. AMG also offers a set of performance seats.
Mercedes-AMG has not yet confirmed which markets will receive the CLE 53 4Matic+ Coupe nor has it said when it will launch or how much it will cost.
