2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Churns Out 443 HP

• Mercedes-AMG is producing its own take on the new CLE coupe format, a merging of the E-Class and C-Class worlds.

• Powered by the M256M turbocharged, mild-hybrid inline-six, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 coupe makes 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque.

• With standard AWD, numerous chassis tuning features, and a blend of sporty and plush design, will the CLE 53 coupe be your next grand tourer?

If the Mercedes-AMG CLE nameplate isn't ringing a bell for you, that's because it's a fairly new model. Shedding the former E-Class coupe and C-Class coupe, Mercedes-Benz decided to merge the two models into one earlier this year. Now known as the CLE coupe, the streamlined design pairs C-Class looks with E-Class proportions.

But even in a market with shrinking demand for coupes, Mercedes wasn't going to let the CLE get away with being a simple BMW 4-Series competitor. Hence, it seems only timely that Mercedes-AMG announces its take on the new CLE, soon to be known as the 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 coupe.

Based on the already revealed CLE coupe chassis, the AMG version is naturally more about what's under the hood than its exterior presence. However, the body of the 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 coupe is widened compared to its non-AMG siblings.

The front and rear tracks are quite a bit wider, adding 2.3 inches at the front and 3 inches at the rear. Similarly, a bit of fender molding and the requisite AMG badges make up key exterior differences on the AMG unit. Plus, 19-inch wheels are standard with 20-inch wheels readily available from AMG.

Under the hood, AMG has placed its M256M 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine, making 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. Should you need a bit more power, AMG has fitted a temporary overboost feature that increases boost pressure to 22 psi for about 12 seconds, allowing for a final power figure of 443 lb-ft of torque.

Benefiting from redesigned inlet and outlet channels, new piston rings, optimized injection, and a new exhaust gas turbocharger, the M256M engine epitomizes the modern AMG approach to making power. Smaller displacements mean the engineers in Affalterbach rely on forced induction and electrification to make power instead.

The CLE 53 coupe is no different, as it uses a mild-hybrid system to recuperate braking energy, improve load point shifting, glide, and operate the start-stop function. Just like most other AMG products, the CLE 53 Coupe uses an AMG nine-speed Multi-Clutch transmission to put the power down. That helps its estimated four-second dash from o to 60 mph.

Depending on the drive mode selected (Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual), both the transmission and the drivetrain will be tuned accordingly, as well as the suspension. Similarly, AMG Dynamic Select is fitted in the CLE 53, allowing for on-the-fly tailoring of the electronic stability control system and standard AMG performance 4Matic+ AWD system.

But the CLE isn't supposed to be a track monster, seemingly even in AMG form. It's more of a grand tourer, and its AMG Ride Control suspension adjustments suggest as much. With steel spring suspension and adaptive adjustable dampers, prospective owners can switch between Comfort, Sport, and Sport+.

That being said, it is still an AMG and will be well-tuned for dynamic driving. Three-stage AMG parameter steering, rear-wheel steering up to 2.5 degrees, and a drift mode are all included as standard, plus a nice set of high-performance brakes with four-piston calipers up front and a single floating piston caliper in the rear.

Inside the new CLE 53, you'll find a 12.3-inch digital driver display and an 11.9-inch infotainment display. The front seats are material configurable between leather or microtex, and optional AMG Performance Seats add more ventilation and bolstering. Additionally, customizable light strips (with 64 colors to choose from) adorn the armrests.

Mercedes-AMG has yet to say just how much the 2024 CLE 53 coupe will cost, and it didn't set a delivery timeline either. However, based on the incoming lineup of Mercedes-Benz CLE coupes, it's possible the AMG variety could cost around $95,000. Regardless of its likely high price tag, it's clear that AMG has been mindful of how it incorporates the CLE nameplate.

Will we still see coupes for sale in 10 years outside of the luxury market? Why or why not? Please share your thoughts below.