New entry for coupe market
The latest iteration of the CLE family from Mercedes-Benz is now available in New Zealand and bolsters the performance coupe segment.
The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe has a number of performance-focused enhancements and an upgraded double-charged six-cylinder powerplant, featuring double charging via an exhaust gas turbocharger and an additional electronic compressor.
Driven by an integrated starter generator (ISG), the two-door vehicle produces 330kW of maximum power and up to 560Nm of torque, with overboost up to 600Nm possible for 12 seconds.
In addition, the ISG can briefly supply an additional output of up to 17kW and 205Nm, contributing to powerful and responsive acceleration.
Mercedes-Benz says the car, which pairs the powertrain with an AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission, has a tested combined fuel consumption figure of 9.6l/100km.
The coupe boasts an AMG-specific A-shaped radiator grille with a large air inlet for high air flow, two-part LED lights at the rear, a pair of round double tailpipe trims, a diffuser-type lower apron, and a spoiler lip mounted on the boot lid.
Its sporty appearance is accentuated by a wider track than other CLE models, with an extra 58mm at the front and 75mm at the rear, combined with 20-inch AMG Y-spoke light-alloy wheels.
The standard AMG Dynamic Plus package adds enhancements including AMG dynamic engine mounts, a selectable “race” driving programme, and an AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather and Microcut microfibre.
AMG Real Performance Sound comes as standard and brings the sounds of the turbocharged six-cylinder engine directly into the vehicle interior.
Also inside are premium materials and the latest generation of the MBUX infotainment system. The driver gets a free-standing 12.3-inch fully digital display and there is an 11.9-inch central display in portrait format.
Standard equipment for the CLE 53 Coupe includes heated and electrically adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging for compatible mobile devices, panoramic sliding sunroof, and dark-tinted privacy glass from the B-pillar to the rear.
Choosing the Keyless-Go Comfort Package offers keyless entry and start, and powered boot closing.
Safety and driver assistance features include 10 airbags, a 360-degree camera plus active parking assist, active distance assist cruise control, active lane-keeping assist, blind spot assist, active brake assist, traffic sign assist and evasive manoeuvre support.
The coupe can be further personalised with optional packages that include carbon-fibre exterior trim elements and a carbon-fibre AMG Performance steering wheel and matching interior trim. AMG Performance seats are also available as an option.
Pricing starts from $164,800.
