- Range-topping version of Mercedes coupe will offer an optional Drift mode.
- The CLE 53 Coupe is powered by a mild-hybrid 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six.
- Drivers have plenty of different modes to customize their driving experience.
The Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe family has a new member in the U.S. with the arrival of the 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe. This new model’s local launch comes five months after the car was announced in overseas markets. It will arrive in U.S. dealerships this summer but local pricing hasn’t been announced.
Like other ‘53’ badged models in the Mercedes-AMG range, the CLE 53 Coupe will serve as a middle ground between standard models and the inevitable CLE 63. It is driven by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six operating alongside a 48-volt electrical system and an integrated starter generator. This small electric motor supports the engine at lower speeds and provides 23 hp and 151 lb-ft (205 Nm) while the engine alone is good for 443 hp and 413 lb-ft or 443 lb-ft (600 Nm) with a 10-second Overboost function enabled.
Read: 2024 Mercedes CLE Coupe Costs Nearly $7k More Than C-Class Coupe, Starts At $56,500
Working alongside the engine is an AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission that sends power to all 4 wheels through a fully variable all-wheel drive 4MATIC+ system. Other systems include an active rear-axle steering, which turns the rear wheels in the opposite direction to the front wheels at up to 60 mph and up to 2.5 degrees, while turning them in the same direction at higher speeds by up to 0.7 degrees.
While it would be easy to dismiss the CLE 53 Coupe as not being a full-blown AMG model, it isn’t short on driving modes. For example, there are five AMG Dynamic Select drive modes, including Sport+ and Individual settings, as well as three settings for the ESC and all-wheel drive. AMG’s engineers have also developed three different steering weights that vary depending on the driving mode.
On a straight line, the new Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 offers a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in a claimed 4 seconds, topping out at an electronically limited 155 mph (250 km/h).
Local shoppers will be able to option the new CLE 53 Coupe with a Dynamic Plus Package. This package includes a new Race drive program which adds a Drift mode. The Dynamic Plus Package also includes active engine mounts, a microfiber steering wheel, and red-painted brake calipers.
Mercedes-AMG will also offer an AMG Performance Studio Package as an option, adding eye-catching flics to the front and rear of the CLE 53, along with a larger rear lip spoiler, and a new diffuser. Two AMG Night packages and two AMG Carbon Fiber packages have also been announced.
