Latest news with #CLE53
The South African
23-07-2025
- Automotive
- The South African
POWER broker: Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance driven
Ahead of me is a convoy of Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance super sports cars, on the world-famous Clarence Drive near Gordon's Bay. Along for the ride is the new SL 63 and CLE 53. It's a regular AMG Christmas in July. The concept behind the event was for media to sample a selection of the latest AMG products. In reverse power order, there's the six-cylinder 48V mild-hybrid CLE 53 AMG with 330 kW and 600 Nm. Then the AMG SL 63 Roadster (non-hybrid) twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, good for 430 kW and 800 Nm. And finally, the top dog Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance with a scarcely believable 600 kW and 1 420 Nm of torque, aided by a 6.1 kWh plug-in battery on top of its twin-turbo V8. So, let's get driving … The fixed rear wing, 21-inch wheels and more aggressive bodywork takes the AMG GT's aesthetics up a notch. Image: Mercedes-Benz Press We pull hard through a series of sweeping bends towards a tight hairpin surrounded by unforgiving rock. Ahead of me is the SL 63 Roadster, which is certainly no hairdryer with its force-fed V8 guffawing at maximum voice. I've got the best bucket seat in the house as we attack the famed coast road that once played host to the Mercedes SLR world launch. Double-clutch transmissions rata-tata up and down shifts like a pair of intoxicated drum majorettes … Our duo roars in happy unison in the damp conditions, until the SL enters the next hairpin too cautiously and I line up alongside. The road is clear of traffic all the way around, so I squeeze the throttle and trust the Michelin Cup rubber is warm enough to grip up. Boy, does it ever! The electric-boosted Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance performs its teleportation trick and I slingshot tens of metres ahead in the blink of an eye. I drop anchor hard in the next hairpin with the standard carbon ceramic brakes and shove my surrounds into reverse. This gains me yet more distance on my open-top pursuer. This is exciting! Any worries the new-generation AMG GT would be too soft has been well and truly eliminated. Image: Mercedes-Benz Press Beyond the awe-inspiring figures – zero to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and 320 km/h plus top speed, the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance is simply a joy to drive. It clings hard to the tarmac with active aerodynamics, in the form of a movable front chin spoiler. There is a multi-mode traction control system so you can dial in just the right amount of electronic aid for the conditions. And rear-wheel steering helps pinch your line in tight corners and stabilise the chassis in the fast stuff. Now, in clear air with glorious open road ahead, I pin the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance's ears back. I trust the brute and I'm well and truly up to speed. The steering in Race mode is tight, suspension taut like a freshly tuned guitar string. We flow like electrified mercury, with speed and physics my guide. And allow me to report that the combination of twin-turbo V8 with instant electrical assistance on throttle is simply incredible. There is no lag, no hesitation, and all the while it's as if the drivetrain is pure and naturally aspirated. Yet, the savagery underfoot matches that of battery electric acceleration. Wow, just wow, what a piece of engineering, Affalterbach. The only part of the AMG super sports car most will get to see on the road. Image: Mercedes-Benz Press At the end of the pass, adrenalin purged, we pull over for some photography with the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance and vanquished SL 63 sister. Together, their AMG Panamericana grilles, long forward prow and cabin-back stance are unmistakably attractive. The high-tech, opulent cabins are wonderful, too, with more computing power on board than a space agency. Of course, they've shared a platform since the last AMG GT and both therefore qualify as ultimate dream cars. The SL 63 is for the exhibitionist in you and the Mercedes AMG 63 is if you love playing g-force dodgems with your internal organs. However, amongst their overflowing bag of talents, I'd proffer the real takeaway is how unintimidating they are to drive in every-day conditions. The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance shows that electrification isn't something to shy away from. It can be utilised for all the right reasons in a super-sports-car application. And by Jove, if you could just keep it out of Race mode, it would be darn economical, too. Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance (600 kW & 1 420 Nm) – R4 369 287 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 Roadster (430 kW & 800 Nm) – R3 943 156 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid (450 kW & 750 Nm) – R2 499 596 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 (330 kW & 600 Nm) – R2 065 982 Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news. Pic: Peter Frost
NDTV
18-07-2025
- Automotive
- NDTV
Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe To Make India Debut On August 12
Mercedes-Benz is going to take forward its plan of launching multiple new products in the Indian market with the debut of the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 coupe on August 12. The car made its global debut back in December 2024 as a replacement for both the C-Class and the E-Class coupes. With this, the German brand will streamline the lineup to form a single line of performance-oriented luxury coupes. In terms of aesthetics, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe features the signature AMG style, complete with the Panamericana grille at the front, more aggressive bumpers and side skirts, a quad-tailpipe exhaust, and 19-inch AMG alloy rims. The AMG CLE also includes extra vents on the front fender to help manage airflow from the wheel arches. Also Read: Range Rover Velar Autobiography Edition Launched In India At Rs 89.90 Lakh Inside the cabin, the CLE 53 carries over the C-Class-inspired design with a prominent portrait-style touchscreen that dominates the center console, round air-conditioning vents, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel situated behind the steering wheel. The differences from the standard CLE are evident in the sportier AMG front seats, an AMG steering wheel, and unique AMG-themed graphics for the digital displays. The CLE 53 coupe is equipped with the M256 3.0-liter inline-six twin-turbocharged engine, complemented by a 48V mild-hybrid system. It generates 443 hp and 560 Nm of peak torque, and an additional 40 Nm boost in torque is available through the overboost function. The power is delivered via a 9-speed automatic gearbox to all four wheels, utilizing Mercedes' 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive technology. The Mercedes-AMG CLE's top speed is electronically capped at 250 kmph, and it can accelerate to 100 kmph in a claimed 4.2 seconds. Braking performance is supported by 370 mm discs with four-piston calipers at the front and 360 mm discs with single-piston calipers at the rear. The forthcoming AMG CLE 53 Coupe is anticipated to be priced higher than the existing C-Class Coupe; and will compete directly with the BMW M2 and Audi RS5, according to ex-showroom prices in India.
India Today
17-07-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupé to make debut in India on August 12
Mercedes-Benz is set to expand its high-performance lineup in India with the launch of the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coup on August 12, 2025. This model made its global debut in December 2023, and serves as a successor to both the C-Class and E-Class coups. With this launch, Mercedes-Benz aims to streamline its two-door offerings into a single, powerful, luxury grand tourer. The model is a part of the eight launches Mercedes-Benz India announced for aggressive design with signature AMG stylingThe CLE 53 Coup exudes typical AMG aggression with design highlights that include:The Panamericana grille with vertical slatsWider front and rear tracks (widened by 58mm and 75mm respectively)Sharper bumpers, fender vents, and bonnet ventQuad exhaust tips neatly integrated into a sporty rear diffuserSculpted LED headlights with DRLs and two-part LED taillamps connected by piano black trimStandard 19-inch AMG alloy wheels (with 20-inch options)The coup features a flowing roofline and raked windshield, differentiating it from the CLE Cabriolet launched earlier in powertrainAt its heart, the CLE 53 houses the AMG-tuned M256 3.0-litre inline-six twin-turbocharged engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system. Key performance figures include:446bhp and 560Nm of torque (with an additional 40Nm via overboost)Overboosted torque up to 600Nm for 12 secondsIntegrated starter generator delivering up to 22.6 bhp and 205 Nm0–100 kmph in 4.2 secondsElectronically limited top speed of 250 kmphPower is delivered to all four wheels via the 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system and a 9-speed AMG Speedshift automatic gearbox. For optimal performance, the car includes AMG Dynamic Select with drive modes like Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual, along with a manual "M" mode for paddle-shifted gear Luxury Meets Motorsport Inside, the CLE 53 borrows heavily from the C-Class in layout but elevates the experience with AMG-specific details: 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster11.9-inch portrait-oriented MBUX infotainment touchscreenAMG Performance seats and flat-bottom AMG steering wheelWireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 64-color ambient lightingBurmester premium sound system and wireless chargingOTA software updates for enhanced digital connectivityAMG-themed graphics, carbon-fiber-style trims, and sportier controls reinforce the car's performance and rivalsExpected to be priced over Rs 1.5 crore (ex-showroom), the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coup will become the first AMG model in the CLE lineup for India, joining the CLE 300 Cabriolet. It will rival the BMW M2 and the Audi RS5 Sportback in the performance luxury CLE 53 arrives almost a year after the CLE Cabriolet's Indian debut and is part of Mercedes-Benz India's broader push to refresh and consolidate its luxury performance portfolio. The brand has confirmed a robust product roadmap, and the CLE 53 Coup marks yet another exciting chapter in that to Auto Today Magazine- Ends
Forbes
17-07-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE53 Cabriolet Is A Stately Speedster
When you see the AMG badge on the back of any Mercedes, you know it's got some teeth and claws, and the CLE53 certainly delivers. It's got a 443-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system. 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet – MANUFAKTUR Graphite Grey Magno (European model shown) Yet at 4,597 pounds, you never forget how much weight the engine's being asked to push around, making it handle less like a sportster than a heavy sedan. And there's nothing wrong with that. A week's test proved a delightful and satisfying experience. What's new for 2025? For 2025, the CLE lineup expands with the addition of this convertible model, replacing the coupe's hardtop with a multi-layer soft top. This roof can retract and stow beneath a pop-up tonneau cover in about 20 seconds, meaning it's theoretically possible to raise or lower at stop lights, but it's best to pull over. 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet – MANUFAKTUR Graphite Grey Magno (European model shown) The Cabriolet features slightly softer suspension tuning than the coupe, though it retains key performance components such as adaptive dampers and rear-wheel steering. Looks Visually, the CLE53 distinguishes itself with aggressive styling cues while still maintaining an upscale, refined appearance. It looks fast while standing still and turned many heads during its test. 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet – MANUFAKTUR Graphite Grey Magno (European model shown) Inside, and tech Inside, the 2025 model comes equipped with comfort upgrades including a power-operated wind deflector, neck warmers for front-seat occupants and an 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that tilts forward and backward to reduce glare when the top is down. That's a great innovation, as anyone who has ever tried to see a drowned-out screen when competing with the sun knows. Nappa leather upholstery is available as an option along with the AMG Performance Seat package which adds more aggressively bolstered front bucket seats. To minimize wind buffeting with the top down, the CLE53 Cabriolet includes a power-operated wind deflector that deploys behind the rear-seat headrests. Integrated neck warmers in the front seats provide added comfort on cooler days. I don't know about you, but I love convertibles so much that I'll put a top down when it's 20 degrees out while wearing a ski hat and the heat blasting, so the neck warmers are another great touch. The Cabriolet provides 14.0 cubic feet of trunk space with the top up, shrinking to 10.0 cubic feet when the roof is stowed. The dash is particularly fab-looking with its racing flavor including carbon-fiber trim, microfiber upholstery, a flat-bottom steering wheel and red stitching. The kids'll love it. Tech A 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen rises from the center console to meet a trio of air vents at the top of the dashboard, serving as the focal point for Mercedes's latest MBUX software. A separate 12.3-inch digital display sits ahead of the driver, providing configurable gauge readouts. Users can interact with the infotainment system via the touchscreen or through touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel. However, the steering wheel buttons can be unintuitive - you need to look them up to really understand what each does. 'Hey, Mercedes' initiates enough assistance to get you through the basics. 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet – MANUFAKTUR Graphite Grey Magno (European model shown) This latest version of MBUX comes with native apps like TikTok, Angry Birds, Webex, and Zoom along with built-in support for Apple Music, Spotify, and Tidal. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as standard, but I never use them as I'd like to keep my personal information to myself. I connect with Bluetooth and leave it at that. More about the engine A nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive come standard. AMG has refined the CLE's adaptive suspension system, too, tailoring it for a more performance-focused driving experience when you want/need it. The setup includes progressively firmer tuning in the Sport and Sport+ modes. You'll get from 0-60 in about 4.1 seconds. Mileage is around a not-bad 25 MPG city/highway combined. The Drive It's a thrilling blastoff, but it's less ferocious-sounding than other AMGs I've tested. No one will hear you coming down the block as with some sports cars. Cornering was satisfactory as was braking during a trip down Bear Mountain, but you don't feel the urge to really blast it, partly because of the slightly muted, non-agressive exhaust note and partly because the car's so heavy. It doesn't mean it's not a delightful experience whether joyriding or going to the store. 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet – MANUFAKTUR Graphite Grey Magno (European model shown) Pricing The price of the 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE-Class starts at $75,450 and goes up to $85,800 depending on the trim and options. Go for the Pinnacle trim and you'll get the works - a head-up display, an augmented-reality nav system, upgraded headlamps and access to more third-party apps via the MBUX infotainment system. Room for improvement There's a slight hesitation when you step on the accelerator and at first you may think 'Am I in neutral?' This is also the first vehicle I've ever tested where if I sing in the car, or talk to myself, the software thinks I'm talking to it - and answers. Saying 'Hey, Mercedes, don't talk' fixed it, but I had to say it a lot. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features The CLE53 comes standard with automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and a driver-attention monitor. A forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist also come with. Adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring are options. Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Mercedes-AMG provides competitive limited and powertrain warranties but doesn't offer complimentary scheduled maintenance. A limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles and a powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles. Conclusion: It's perfect for the driver wishing both style and speed at under $100,000.
The Citizen
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Pricing sticker comes off AMG jabbed Mercedes-AMG CLE 53
Electrified 3.0-litre turbo straight-six swaps plug-in hybrid assistance, for mild-hybrid 'help' capable of producing an additional 17kW/205Nm for short spells. The new Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 is said to combine the best of two worlds — the agility and sportiness of the C-Class with the space and status of the E-Class, and you would have to be blind not to like what you see here. Electric but no plug I don't want to get over technical and lose you in the details, because so many buyers switch off immediately, for lack of better words, the moment anybody starts to talk about electric cars. Whereas the new AMG E53 is a plug-in hybrid that must be plugged in to be fully charged as the name suggests, the AMG CLE 53 is a mild-hybrid, and it does not need to, nor cannot not be plugged in to be fully charged, and it charges itself up from the conventional petrol engine and via brake regeneration. ALSO READ: Mercedes-Benz CLE leaves AMG finishing school as new AMG CLE 53 As with the E53, the CLE 53 makes use of a 3.0-litre straight-six turbocharged engine, but omits the plug-in hybrid for a 48-volt mild-hybrid system aided further by a new exhaust gas-driven turbo and electric compressor. The result is 330kW/560Nm, but for 12 seconds, an overboost function which lifts torque to 600 Nm is activated. What's more, the mild-hybrid system, known as EQ Boost, adds 17kW/205Nm of its own for short bursts. Interior sports a series of AMG bespoke fittings. Picture: Mercedes-AMG According to Mercedes-AMG, this means a top speed of 250km/h or 270km/h with the optional AMG Driver's Package included, and 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. As with the E53, drive in the CLE 53 is directed to all four wheels through the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive via the nine-speed MCT transmission. When driving moderately and in situations where all-wheel drive is not required, the front axle is completely decoupled. This increases efficiency. Buyers have the choice of the AMG Carbon and Night exterior packages. The standard wheels are 19-inch alloy wheels, though 20-inch wheels can be had as an option. Picture: Mercedes-AMG From the ESP Sport setting onwards, the driving behaviour is more rear-focused. And in drift mode, the car's programmed as a rear-wheel drive vehicle across the entire speed range. Typical visual identifying features are the long hood embedded in the front end with two powerful power domes. The sloping windshield and the elongated roof, which slopes towards the rear, also reference this. The passenger cell, which is set far back, leads to the sporty, short rear via the rear window, which is also flat. Price Priced from R2 065 982, the AMG CLE 53's price includes a five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan. NOW READ: Mercedes-Benz CLE cuts it as a worthy three-pointed star coupé
