7 hours ago
Mercedes-AMG unleashes E53 and CLE 53 models in South Africa: pricing announced
The new Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid 4Matic (top) and CLE 53 4Matic are now available in South Africa.
Image: Supplied
Mercedes-AMG has released two new '53' badged models in South Africa.
Until the more extreme '63' versions arrive, the new Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid Sedan and CLE 53 Coupe will be the most potent models in their respective line-ups.
But how much do they cost?
The new E53 Hybrid 4Matic Sedan is now on sale for R2,499,596, while the CLE 53 4Matic+ Coupe gets into your garage for R2,065,982.
They might sound technically similar, but they are both very different variations of AMG's latest six-cylinder turbocharged petrol powertrain.
Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid
To that end, the E53 is a fully-blown plug-in hybrid, pairing the aforementioned straight-six engine with a 120kW electric motor for system outputs of 430kW and 750Nm.
With Race Start mode activated, which momentarily raises maximum output to 450kW, the midsize sedan will sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds, while the top speed can be electronically raised to 280km/h with the AMG Driver's Package.
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The Mercedes-AMG E53 is plug-in hybrid with up to 100km of range.
Image: Supplied
The battery has an 'everyday capacity' of 21.22 kWh, which Mercedes says is sufficient to enable an all-electric range of up to 100km. As standard it comes with 11kW worth of AC charging power, but a 60kW DC fast charger is available upon request, allowing a 10% to 80% charge in about 20 minutes.
The hybrid system integrates with an AMG Speedshift 9G transmission and a fully variable AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system. Dynamically it also benefits from a newly developed and tuned AMG Ride Control suspension with adaptive damping adjustment, and rear axle steering.
Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe
The CLE 53 4Matic+ is what you might call a mild hybrid model, with a 48-volt on-board electrical system and no electric-only driving capability.
It features the same six-cylinder turbo engine as its E53 cousin, with 330kW and 560Nm available under normal conditions, and an additional 17kW and 205Nm electric boost is available briefly on overboost.
The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 is mild hybrid.
Image: Supplied
Like the E53, it features the 9G Speedshift transmission, fully-variable all-wheel drive, uniquely tuned adaptive suspension and rear-axle steering.
The E53 and CLE 53, as you'd expect, are set apart by a glut of model-specific exterior features, including unique frontal design elements and standard 19-inch wheels, with larger options available.
Equally, the cabins of both cars feature a host of bespoke adornments, including AMG-specific displays, while the E53 is available with the MBUX 'Superscreen' which includes a passenger-side display.
The E53 is available with Merc's Superscreen.
Image: Supplied
Both models are sold with the Mercedes PremiumDrive Comfort Care Service and Maintenance Plan, valid for five years or 100,000km.
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