Mercedes has already unveiled the regular Benz versions of the first-ever CLE in coupe and convertible body styles. The model builds on the latest C-Class, replaces the old coupe and convertible versions of the C- and E-Class, and sits somewhere between the two in terms of size.
What we haven't seen so far are the AMG flavors in an official environment. But the Affalterbach brand is currently working on them, and we are probably a few months away from laying our eyes on them. Meanwhile, we're left with the occasional scoops, the latest of which have put the spotlight on the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Convertible.
Mind you, the Nurburgring is no place to test an open-top model in the fall, but that is where this prototype was spotted doing its thing. It immediately stands out next to the regular variants due to the beefed-up bumpers, Panamericana grille, multi-fin diffuser, and quad exhaust tips with a round shape. The special wheels backed up by sporty brakes and specific chassis tune contribute to the exciting vibes.
Don't know what engine lies under the hood? Don't worry, as no one who is not directly involved in the car's development does. However, it has been indicated that the CLE 53 might use an inline-six with forced induction. Mercedes certainly has plenty of models in its current lineup that feature this recipe, and the rumor mill brings the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 into focus when it comes to the firepower of the upcoming CLE 53.
Photo: SH Proshots
You see, the crossover uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with hybrid assistance, which pumps out a total of 429 hp (435 ps/320 kW) at 6,100 rpm and 413 lb-ft (560 Nm) of torque between 1,800 and 5,800 rpm. It needs just under five seconds to hit 60 mph (97 kph), though given the CLE's lighter package, it should be at least one second faster, probably tapping out at 155 mph or 250 kph.
Responsible for channeling the thrust to the wheels will probably be a nine-speed automatic transmission with dual clutch. And if you're wondering if it will be rear- or all-wheel drive, we lean towards the latter, as the implementation of the brand's 4Matic all-wheel drive system seems logical to improve its traction and handling and to make it weatherproof.
Following the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 models will be the range-topping versions of the series, the CLE 63. It is possible that we won't see the latter until the 2025 model year, whereas the lesser CLE 53 could debut in a few months. The camouflage should gradually come off by the time it premieres, so we look forward to seeing additional design cues that are currently being hidden beneath the trippy stickers.
After a series of unfortunate events put an end to Cristian's dream of entering a custom built & tuned old-school Dacia into a rally competition, he moved on to drive press cars and write for a living. He's worked for several automotive online journals and now he's back at autoevolution after his first tour in the mid-2000s. Full profile
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