Mercedes-AMG CLE 2024: performance variant of sleek new coupe set for future Australian release

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Mercedes-Benz Australia has confirmed that the brand’s new performance CLE-Class – a mix between a C-Class and an E-Class – will be coming to local shores and will be called the AMG CLE53 4Matic. 

The performance grand tourer will compete against rivals such as the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe and Audi’s S5 and RS5. 

Although the model has been locked in for Australia, exact timing and pricing are yet to be confirmed by the brand. 

The CLE-Class will also be available in non-AMG models, but the broader lineup is yet to be confirmed. 

In Europe, several variants will be available including the CLE300 and the CLE450 4Matic. Overseas engines range from 2.0-litre petrol and diesel four-cylinders to six-cylinder petrols.  

Clever turbocharging for new AMG CLE 

The CLE53 4Matic uses a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged straight-six engine that produces total outputs of 330kW/560Nm, however it can produce up to 600Nm on overboost for a period of 12 seconds. 

The 3.0-litre petrol engine uses a traditional turbocharger as well as an additional electric compressor. 

The electric compressor works like a turbocharger, but uses a small electric motor rather than exhaust gas to spin up the turbine. The compressor adds 0.4bar (5.8psi) of boost for a grand total of 1.51bar (22psi). 

A 48-volt electrical system also features, providing the CLE-Class with some hybrid functionality, as well as “short-term boosting” of up to 17kW/205Nm at certain times. 

The AMG CLE sends power to the road through a nine-speed automatic transmission and through all four wheels with Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic four-wheel-drive system. 

Standard specification for the new AMG CLE 53 4Matic

The AMG version of the CLE-Class will feature the following standard equipment:

• MBUX infotainment system
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster 
• 11.9-inch centre touchscreen display 
• Dynamic ambient lighting 
• Artico man-made leather upholstery (nappa leather is optional)
• AMG Performance steering wheel
• AMG dynamic select drive modes
• Fully variable 4Matic all-wheel drive system
• Standard rear axle steering

An optional AMG dynamic plus package with drift mode will also be available, along with optional AMG Performance seats. 

What exactly is the CLE-Class?

Mercedes-Benz has created the new two-door coupe (and convertible) as a mix between the brand’s C-Class and the E-Class. 

The new model has likely been created to compete against cars such as the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, along with the Audi A5 and other luxury grand tourers.

We’ve previously written about the core CLE-Class range in an older report, which indicates a second-half of 2024 on-sale date.