LIVE from Detroit: The brand-new AMG 53 range is here!

Mercedes is reinventing the AMG range, bringing to attention and sending onto the road the all-new AMG 53 family, with exclusive members such as the CLS, the E-Class Coupe and the E-Class Cabriolet. Under their bonnet, there beats the new 6-cylinder inline  3 liter engine with 435 horsepower and a peak torque of 520 Nm which is set to replace the current V6 3 liter with 367 HP.

All models benefit from the presence of the EQ Boost starter alternator, fitted between the engine and transmission, bringing 250 Nm extra torque, feeding the 48 V electrical system on-board. The output is delivered via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission and the standardly fit all-wheel AMG PERFORMANCE 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. All these make the CLS 53 4MATIC+ run from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 270 km/h, when fitted with the Driver’s Package.

The 48 V electrical system is there to pave the way for further hybridization, getting its power from the EQ Boost starter-alternator, while the existing 12 V system supplies the power to the on-board consumers, such as lights, cockpit, infotainment displays and controls.

The new 53-series models come with a twin-blade radiator grille in silver chrome, previously exclusively reserved for the V8 high-performance models. The AMG side sill panels and a round exhaust tailpipe in high-gloss chrome finish are also there, to enhance the sporty looks and to emphasize the dynamic silhouette.

The CLS 53 4MATIC+ benefits from the aid of the side air curtains, that improve aerodynamics redirecting the air flow. The exterior mirrors are relocated onto the doors, as in the AMG GT models, providing a more dynamic stance.

The CLS comes standardly fit with 19-inch light alloy wheels. The 20-inch wheels are optional.

The cabin of the car is wrapped in high-class materials, with the focus on the high-resolution displays of 12.3 inches, under one shared glass cover, blending into the Widescreen Cockpit. The driver has the liberty to configure the three displays on-board in “Classic”, “Sporty” and “Progressive” styles, all according to mood and will, also choosing the preferred data to be displayed. Touch-sensitive buttons control the infotainment system, without the driver having to take his hands off the steering wheel. The infotainment system can take orders via the touchpad in the center console or via voice control.

The DYNAMIC SELECT gives further freedom to the driver, with its already familiar driving modes “Eco”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport+” and “Individual”, with the configurations impacting the response of the engine, transmission, steering and suspension. Furthermore, the “M” button will switch to the manual mode, in which the one behind the wheel will use the shift paddles on the steering wheel to make that sporty feeling skyrocket.

The sports seats of the new models, with AMG typical upholstery, red seat belts and carbon fiber or glass fiber details, highlight their dynamic personality. As for the steering wheel, the driver will hold a standard-fit AMG Performance one, covered in nappa leather with wood inserts or DINAMICA microfiber in the grip area.

The AMG 53 models provide more customizing options than the preceding 43 ones.

In adition to classic black with red or grey contrasting topstitching, on-board the E 53 4MATIC+ Coupe and Cabriolet, exclusive combos such as black/saddle brown, black/white, black/classic red, designo titian red/macchiato beige and designo titanium grey/black are also available.
The CLS 53 4MATIC+ receives combinations of beige/magma grey, lack/Bengal red and espresso brown/magma grey, with the color also being continued onto the steering wheel.
You have the option to configure the rear with three full-size seats and a 40/20/40% backrest split.

The optional ENERGIZING comfort control is available on all 53 models.

The Affalterbach-based power house fitted the cars with the in-house developed AMG RIDE CONTROL+ multi-chamber air suspension that continuously adjusts the sporty spring/damper set-up for better driving dynamics and ride comfort. Individual wheel damping can also be preselected in three different modes: “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport+”. The simple push of a button can increase the ground clearance when going over bumps. The level will be automatically lowered at higher speeds.

Such power has to be handled by something that stands its ground in critical situations, thus the 53 AMG models are fitted with perforated and internally ventilated brake discs measuring 370 x 36 mm at the front and with internally ventilated discs of 360 x 26 mm at the rear.

The CLS 53 4MATIC+ is a fortress in terms of safety, as it borrows the assistance systems of the exclusive S-Class. Active Braking Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Attention Assist, Speed Limit Assist and the PRE-SAFE protection system are fitted as standard in the high-performance 4-door coupe.

The CLS 53 4MATIC+ will go on sale as an exclusive Edition 1, with COPPER ART interior design, that builds up a particular interior atmosphere. The features list includes copper-colored contrasting topstitching and copper details in the instrument panel, armrests, center console, door panels and piping on the floor mats.  The steering wheel sports the Edition badge, while an IWC analogue clock found room in the center console.