Hybrid technology has come a long way in recent years, and nowhere is this more evident than in the driver’s seat of the all new Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé. Offering power, efficiency and seamless performance, this sleek mild-hybrid model satisfies the craving for a sporty yet refined driving experience – promising to deliver the best of both worlds without compromise.

We take it for a spin to see how it delivers on that promise.

At a glance

But first, let’s take a moment to appreciate its striking exterior design.

The sleek silhouette of the AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé is accentuated by AMG-specific features like the radiator trim, front apron, side skirts, rear apron, spoiler lip, flared wheel arches, and large AMG light-alloy wheels. The A-shaped radiator grille with vertical slats and the two outer air inlets with cross slats emphasise its performance-driven design. Greater track width (increased by 58mm at the front and 75mm at the rear) compared with the standard Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé model gives this car a commanding stance.

Inside, the AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé reveals a harmonious mix of expertly crafted materials and the latest technology. The intuitive MBUX multimedia system is displayed prominently on 11.9 and 12.3-inch screens, with AMG-specific menus and real-time data on performance metrics.

An AMG Performance steering wheel evokes the sporty interior of a race car, while high-quality interior materials include premium leather seats with an embossed AMG logo on the headrest.

An innovative powertrain

Powering the sleek body of the AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé is an innovative powertrain featuring a mild-hybrid, six-cylinder in-line turbo engine equipped with twin turbochargers and an electric auxiliary compressor. This advanced set-up produces instant pick-up, boosted by the 48-volt integrated starter-generator (ISG) delivering immediate power and torque when it’s time to accelerate.

The ISG also enhances efficiency by recovering energy through recuperation and coasting with the engine off during deceleration. This makes the coupé a versatile option for both day-to-day commutes and longer excursions.

The engineering behind the powertrain reflects the brand’s relentless commitment to performance; the 48-volt electrical system allows for seamless transitions between electric and combustion power, optimising dynamic response while maintaining fuel efficiency.

Total performance package

Thanks to the bespoke AMG Real Performance Sounds, the throaty growl of the engine roaring to life is a goosebump-inducing experience as it’s amplified in the cabin.

The initial push into the throttle is met with an immediate response, propelling the car forward. Navigating winding roads, the steering feels precise and connected, allowing for effortless turns at the apexes. The AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé feels light on its feet, responding to inputs with a level of precision that quickly instills confidence. Active rear-axle steering – in which the rear wheels either turn in the opposite direction or in the same direction as the front wheels, depending on speed – enhances the car’s agility, allowing for tighter turns and improved stability at higher speeds. As you tackle corners, the vehicle remains close to the road.

The transition from moderate to high speeds feels seamless. The power delivery is smooth, with the engine’s torque available across a wide range of revs per minute. The mild-hybrid engine delivers a power output of up to 330kW and 560Nm of torque when called upon, and as you pick up speed, the outside world fades away – leaving only the sound of the engine and the thrill of the drive.

The AMG Speedshift TCT nine-speed automatic gearbox also offers shorter shifting times, sharp, appealing intermediate throttle function, and dynamic response from the steering-mounted paddles. Depending on the drive mode, it can execute sporty gear changes or comfortable, barely perceptible shift operations with ease; the multiple downshift function ensures rapid in-gear acceleration.

Switching between drive modes further transforms the driving experience. In Sport or Sport+ mode, the car’s personality shifts dramatically. The throttle response sharpens, the steering becomes more direct, and the exhaust note intensifies.

With a fully variable all-wheel drive system, the AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé maintains its composure, whether you’re navigating wet roads or uphill stretches. This feature, combined with the active rear-axle steering, creates a driving experience that is not only thrilling but also reassuring, allowing drivers to explore the limits of performance with confidence.

Discover the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé.