Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 review

Serving as an indirect successor to the E53 Coupé, the hot newCLE 53 Coupé wears the AMG badge but isn’t quite a full-bore, Affalterbach-made model.

A new CLE 63 is on its way, but it remains to be seen what it will power it; the C63 saloon fell way short of the mark after it swapped its roaring V8 engine for a four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The CLE 53 is a closer rival to the BMW M440i than the BMW M4, but it still looks a lot meaner than regular CLE models and gets a suite of powertrain, suspension and interior upgrades to give it a more dynamic and sporting character.

But does this amalgamated C-Class and E-Class AMG model feel like more than just a warmed-up range-topper? Let's find out.

Verdict Model tested: Rating: 8

Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupé

Can be enjoyed at a cruise or at pace. Could do with a bit more steering feel and less weight, though GoodSmooth six-cylinder engine has bags of characterLooks the part both inside and outWide range of driving modes means it can be enjoyed at a cruise and at paceBadSteering could offer more feelHeavy for a two-door coupéDoesn't quite have the allure of a full-bore AMG 63

TECHNICAL SPECS

Model tested: Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4Matic+ Price: from £73,075 Engine: 6 cyls in line, 2999cc, twin-turbo, petrol, plus 48V ISG Transmission: 9-spd automatic Driveline layout: Four-wheel drive Model tested Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4Matic+ Price from £73,075 Engine 6 cyls in line, 2999cc, twin-turbo, petrol, plus 48V ISG View all specs and rivals Transmission 9-spd automatic Driveline layout Four-wheel drive Power 442bhp at 5800-6100rpm Torque 413lb ft at 1800-500rpm 0-62mph 4.0sec (with Race Start) Top speed 155mph Kerb weight (DIN) 2000kg Fuel economy 29.5mpg CO2 217g/km BIK tax band 37% Rivals BMW M440i Audi S5 Power 442bhp at 5800-6100rpm Torque 413lb ft at 1800-500rpm 0-62mph 4.0sec (with Race Start) Top speed 155mph Kerb weight (DIN) 2000kg Fuel economy 29.5mpg CO2 217g/km BIK tax band 37% Rivals BMW M440i Audi S5