First Drive: Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé.

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.