Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 2024: the right engine for this sports coupe – Road test

I mentioned to you, during my convertible test, the nature of the CLE and how it should fulfill a double mission, replacing 4 models, namely the E and C Class Coupes and convertibles. Mercedes-Benz he believes that CLE will ensure the best longevity for 2 drive configurations in the industry-wide drop in speeds.

Originally offered only as a base version and equipped with a 4-cylinder turbo, the CLE coupe passed through the hands of its high-performance division. AMG. Based in Affalterbach in Germany, it is an independent team responsible for producing Mercedes-Benz cars, some of which, it must be admitted, are very impressive.

All his letters of honor

From the beginning, we must admit that the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 53 AMG is welcome. Despite its features, the basic version is not overpowered; Despite its dynamic lines, it is not a car that can give you joy behind the wheel, which may be acceptable for a convertible, but difficult to justify for a coupe.

The manufacturer has therefore only corrected the situation with the introduction of this AMG version, in fact it gives all its characteristics to the CLE coupe, without falling into extremes. The good news is that we’re not just getting a new mechanic. The model has several additions that set it apart from the base version, and I like that. When you buy an AMG branded car, you want people to know.

But these improvements are not just for show. They increase the performance of the model. The front is different with a more aggressive fascia including a larger air intake. You need to get more fresh air for the engine and brakes. The grille is also unique to the version, as is the hood which consists of two raised sections to form a dome.

Race effect at first glance

What further differentiates the car and gives it its racing effect are its widened front and rear fenders that add to its presence. Engineers widened the front track by 58.4 millimeters and the rear by 76 millimeters compared to the base CLE. The effect is good, especially with the optional 20-inch AMG rims that fit my test model. The rear should not be overwhelmed by the quadruple exhaust, its low profile on the rear trunk and its narrow three-sided lights. What’s more, the model turned heads throughout my test, but without surprises among older customers.

Opening the door, you see a well-designed interior that offers a good combination of classic layout and technology. It’s less tech-packed than the EQ models; I like this balance better. I feel more like a Mercedes-Benz. In front of the driver we find the first screen of 12.3 inches for the collection of devices, it gives all the important information and it looks clear.

The touchscreen of the infotainment system, with a size of 11.9 inches, is placed slightly lower vertically. I found it easy to use, the menu is intuitive to use. The navigation system provides augmented reality, a real picture of the road and superimposed directions, but I quickly decided to go back to normal, I had the feeling of not seeing enough in advance what would happen. It is more difficult to imitate.

Just like in the case of the convertible, the dashboard gave me the impression of being very attractive, especially with the wide center console near the dashboard. He encroached on the leg space, I felt like he was encroaching on my space. Besides, few complaints about the choice of materials and the quality of the assembly. The evening light also provides a beautiful spectacle that, with a choice of 64 colors, will not fail to impress the gallery.

I have the same complaint as in the convertible case about the rear seats. Even if there is satisfactory legroom, the back of the desks is almost at a right angle, which is not very comfortable. Access is also difficult as it is a two-person group, requiring acrobatic skills.

The AMG treatment enhances the appearance of the cabin, this is evident in the case of trims, steering wheel and seats. Everything adds to the racing effect and does not fail to impress.

Three different engine technologies

Under the hood, the CLE 53 AMG ditches the base version’s 4-cylinder turbo and receives a piece of sophisticated technology, dubbed the M256M. It’s a supercharged 3.0-liter inline-6 ​​that develops 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. Its turbocharger boosts performance at high rpm, but low-rpm torque is provided by an electric compressor that adds 5.8 psi to the boost pressure. air, at a total compression ratio of 22 psi. For the uninitiated, the psi number refers to the additional air pressure sent to the internal combustion engine by a supercharging system such as a turbocharger or supercharger. This allows the air density to increase and the engine can produce more power.

To this is added 3^e technology, a hybrid including an integrated starter generator (ISG) paired with an on-board 48-volt electrical system. It acts as a starter, allows energy recovery and provides, as a bonus, extra power, 23 horsepower, and 151 pound-feet of torque when needed.

The mountainous and winding roads of Tenerife allowed me to test the car’s dynamic characteristics. From the first strokes of the accelerators, I quickly smiled as I realized the power of the engine, I was miles away from what I got with the basic mechanics. The power comes without delay, surprisingly, and is the result of an electric compressor which, as a bonus, is assisted by a generator motor, also electric.

Strong, but not strong

The AMG sports steering fits the hands well, and the size of its flange provides good grip. I had a good sense of control, I could steer the car with my fingertips and I took countless turns one after the other with impressive ease, especially as the rear steering was involved to help me. Its standard all-wheel drive improves handling at all times and favors the rear wheels at normal times. It will be encouraging in Quebec when conditions deteriorate, but I could not put it to the test well in test conditions.

The CLE 53 AMG can also adopt different personalities depending on the models you choose. Five programs “Slippery”, “Comfort, “Sport”, “Sport +” and “Individual” affect the parameters of the engine, gearbox, suspension and handling. Sometimes quiet and comfortable, CLE can be transformed into a “semi-racer” for because even with Sport + mode, it retains a certain amount of comfort. Adaptive modes are recommended if you want to drive with more character.

Conclusion

To be attractive, a sports coupe must be beautiful and stylish, as well as offering a good level of performance. If the base version checks two of these features, the Mercedes-Benz CLE 53 AMG 2024 check all three. His lines struck a chord with people and they respond when it’s time to push him a little.

Even if we can be tempted to jump on something new, I just wonder about the complexity of all its technologies and its reliability. It is clear that the RPM team will take the time to properly evaluate the design before giving it their stamp of approval.

One question remains, and that is the price. It’s not revealed, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s too high, which could dampen enthusiasm.