All You Need to Know: Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé

Mercedes-Benz, India’s most coveted name in luxury motoring, has launched the new Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé, further reinforcing its commitment to delivering top-tier performance and design for discerning enthusiasts. This elegant two-door coupé embodies a harmonious blend of athleticism and refinement, merging the agility and dynamism of the C-Class with the stature and comfort of the E-Class. It is a model crafted to captivate those who value both high performance and unmistakable road presence.

At the heart of the CLE 53 is a thoroughly upgraded 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, known as the M256M. This power unit features redesigned combustion chambers, reworked intake and exhaust channels, improved injection, and a new exhaust gas turbocharger. An electric auxiliary compressor, now capable of operating for longer periods, delivers additional boost and responsiveness, particularly at mid-range speeds. This setup produces 449 hp and 560 Nm of torque, with an overboost function providing up to 600 Nm for a burst of up to 12 seconds.

Complementing the combustion engine is the second-generation Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), now housed within the gearbox bell housing. This key component of the 48-volt electrical system contributes an additional 23 hp and 205 Nm of torque while supporting hybrid functions such as short-term electric boosting, regenerative braking, coasting, and seamless engine restart during start-stop operation. This pairing ensures not only remarkable power delivery but also a smoother and more efficient driving experience.

The engine is mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission, renowned for its quick shift times, multiple downshifts, and double-declutching function. The transmission’s responsiveness is especially pronounced in Sport+ and manual modes, offering both spirited acceleration and refined cruising, depending on the selected driving programme.

Drivers can tailor the car’s characteristics using AMG DYNAMIC SELECT, with five preset modes: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual. These settings adjust parameters such as engine response, suspension stiffness, steering feel, and transmission behaviour. An exclusive manual mode can also be activated, allowing full control via the steering-mounted shift paddles.

Delivering power to the road is the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. This sophisticated drivetrain offers optimal traction and control in all conditions, whether on dry asphalt or slippery surfaces. The system can seamlessly transition between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, depending on grip and driving demands. During moderate driving, the front axle disengages completely for enhanced efficiency, while a rear-biased setup activates under sportier conditions.

Handling is further refined by the AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension system, developed in Affalterbach. The steel suspension setup features adaptive damping with three selectable modes—Comfort, Sport, and Sport+—adjusting in real time to road conditions and driving style. Also contributing to the car’s agility is the standard rear-axle steering system. At speeds below 100 km/h, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front, reducing the turning radius and improving manoeuvrability. At higher speeds, they steer in the same direction, enhancing stability and precision during fast-paced driving.

Inside the CLE 53, occupants are welcomed by an environment that is both driver-focused and luxuriously appointed. The interior is equipped with the latest-generation MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch fully digital driver display and an 11.9-inch portrait-oriented central touchscreen. Ambient lighting with 64 colour options adds to the immersive atmosphere. The digital instrument cluster offers three visual themes—Classic, Sport, and the AMG-exclusive Supersport—which provides a central round tachometer and AMG-specific performance data, including a race timer, G-meter, warm-up display, and more.

Seats are upholstered in a blend of ARTICO man-made leather and MICROCUT microfibre with AMG-specific graphics and red contrast stitching, combining comfort with secure lateral support. The flat-bottomed AMG Performance steering wheel in double-spoke design integrates intuitive, seamless controls for key vehicle functions and all driving modes, enhancing both usability and aesthetics.

The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé is priced at INR 1.35 crore (ex-showroom, India) and is available for booking across Mercedes-Benz dealerships nationwide. Deliveries are set to begin immediately.

With this launch, Mercedes-AMG brings to India a coupé that not only looks the part but also delivers on every front—performance, sophistication, and everyday usability. The CLE 53 stands as a testament to the brand’s engineering prowess and a compelling proposition for those seeking a true high-performance luxury experience.