Luxury vehicle manufacturer Mercedes-AMG introduces the CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé in the Indian market
Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe: A High-Performance Mild-Hybrid Powertrain
The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe, recently launched in India at a price of Rs 1.35 crore, is a testament to the brand's commitment to dynamic driving pleasure and high levels of driving safety.
Under the hood, the Coupe features an upgraded 3.0-litre M 256M inline six-cylinder turbo engine, now known as the M256M. This engine has been optimised with improved combustion chambers, new piston rings, optimised injection, and a new exhaust gas turbocharger. The result is a peak performance that delivers approximately 443-449 hp (330-335 kW).
The engine's performance is further enhanced by an electric additional compressor, which raises the boost pressure by 0.4 bar, achieving a maximum of 1.5 bar. This compressor can now operate nearly continuously over a longer period, improving throttle response, especially at medium engine speeds.
The engine produces 560 Nm of torque in continuous operation and can deliver up to 600 Nm in overboost mode for up to 12 seconds. This power is transmitted through the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission, which has adapted shift times, quick reactions, with double-declutching function and multiple downshifts.
The Mercedes-Benz AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe is also equipped with a second-generation integrated starter generator (ISG), integrated into the gearbox bell housing as part of a 48V mild-hybrid system. The ISG acts as an electrical generator and supports hybrid functions, including short-term power boosting, recuperation (energy recovery during braking), load point shifting to optimise engine efficiency, sailing mode (engine decoupling to save fuel), and nearly imperceptible engine restart during start-stop operations.
The AMG RIDE CONTROL chassis, developed in Affalterbach, is used for more agility, more neutral cornering behaviour, and higher traction. The suspension features a sporty spring-damper setup with adaptive damping, and the damping on each wheel adapts quickly and precisely to the current driving situation and road conditions.
The interior of the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe is no less impressive. It features unique equipment, exclusive materials, and the latest MBUX infotainment system. The cabin includes a 12.3-inch fully digital driver display, a 11.9-inch central display, and dynamic ambient lighting with 64 colors. The driver can switch between display styles "Classic", "Sport", and AMG exclusive "Supersport".
At speeds over 100 km/h, the rear wheels turn parallel to the front wheels for enhanced driving stability. At speeds up to 100 km/h, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels, virtually shortening the wheelbase. The standard rear axle steering operates with a maximum steering angle of 2.5 degrees.
In summary, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe offers a seamless blend of performance, responsiveness, and mild-hybrid benefits. Its upgraded engine, electric additional compressor, and integrated starter generator work together to provide a high-performance mild-hybrid powertrain with swift torque delivery and advanced hybrid integration. The Coupe's dynamic handling and luxurious interior make it a standout choice for those seeking a high-performance vehicle with a touch of elegance.
| Feature | Specification/Improvement | |---------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------| | Engine Type | 3.0L Inline-six turbocharged M256M with 48V mild-hybrid | | Boost Pressure | Increased by 0.4 bar to 1.5 bar via electric additional compressor | | Torque | 560 Nm continuous, 600 Nm overboost (up to 12 seconds) | | Power Output | 443-449 hp (330-335 kW) | | Electric Additional Compressor | Improved, near-continuous operation, assists low-mid RPM response | | Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) | 2nd gen, 48V system, integrated into gearbox bell housing; adds 17-23 hp and 205 Nm torque, supports hybrid functions |