Mercedes-AMG is adding some mid-range grunt to its lineup with three new 53-series models
Looking for some AMG performance, but can’t stretch your budget to a 63-series model? Have no fear – the company is expanding its product range with three new, mid-range 53-series models. Namely, the CLS 53 sedan, as well as the E 53 coupe and cabriolet. That’s not all, though. Mercedes-AMG is using this lineup as a springboard toward electrification. All these models will use an inline six-cylinder engine coupled to an electric auxiliary compressor, “EQ Boost” starter-alternator and a 48-volt electrical system.
Performance
At the heart of this new lineup is the same engine – a 3.0-liter, turbocharged inline-6. The engine, on its own, delivers 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. Each powerplant comes mated to an AMG SpeedShift TCT 9G nine-speed automatic transmission and a variable all-wheel drive system. The EQ Boost facility serves up brief power bumps, offering up 21 additional horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. EQ Booost works by using the auxiliary compressor to build up a high-pressure charge to offset turbo lag off the line.
The CLS 53 and E 53 offers up more agility thanks to its AMG Ride Control+ air suspension. The setup offers variable damping for reduced body roll when you’re driving hard, and a supple ride when you aren’t. 53-series models also include pneumatic all-round self-leveling, so the cars maintain a constant ride height regardless of what you put in them.
The CLS 53 and E 53 Cabriolet accelerate to 60 MPH in 4.4 seconds, while the E 53 coupe can do it in 4.3. Mercedes hasn’t announced official weight figures at time of writing.
Exterior Features
Distinguishing features of the CLS 53 and E 53 include a twin-blade radiator grille. Until now, that was only a feature on V8-powered AMG models. Around back, there are also redesigned bumpers and twin tailpipe elements. The lip spoilers are color-matched to the body, as you would expect, but you can spec them in carbon fiber.
The CLS 53 goes a bit further with its exterior distinctions. It features side air curtains, improving aerodynamics by reducing the drag coefficient at the front. There’s also a front splitter which works with the air curtains to reduce front-end lift. The exterior mirrors are positioned on the doors, as they are in the AMG GT.
Interior Updates
Both the CLS 53 and E 53 models share fairly similar interiors, but there are subtle differences between the two. Mercedes-Benz does claim “exclusive appointments” that are model-specific, as well as a vast array of customization options. As is fashionable in new-generation Mercedes, both models sport dual 12.3-inch high-resolutions displays.
The standard “Widescreen Cockpit” fields all the virtual instruments crucial to the driver. Since the cockpit is fully digital, you can select three different modes, including “Classic,” “Sporty,” and “Progressive”. You can also configure the information within the screens to your own tastes.
Each 53-series model includes AMG-specific seat upholstery and a new AMG Performance steering wheel as standard. The CLS 53 and E53 sport a significantly expanded array of color and material options.
Release dates, pricing
Mercedes-Benz hasn’t announced pricing for the CLS 53 or E 53 models just yet. They are on display at the North American International Auto Show now, and will go on sale in the U.S. later this year.
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