Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Cabrio arrives

ANOTHER variant of the Benz CLE-Class Coupe and Cabriolet range has been added in the new Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4Matic+ Cabriolet that arrived in Benz outlets on April 10 promising luxury-seeking motorists wind-in-the-hair driving pleasure with a generous dollop of AMG performance thrown in.

It joins four other existing CLE-Class Cabriolet and Coupe models that bridge the gap between smaller two-door C-Class and larger E-Class predecessors.

Priced from $175,600 excluding on-road costs, the athletic looking new AWD ‘Benz Cabriolet competes against BMW’s M440i xDrive Convertible from $153,100 and the Audi S5 quattro Cabriolet from $134,515 both excluding on-road costs.

Mercedes-Benz says the new model offers dynamic AMG performance in luxury convertible form backed by a powerful appearance and a full array of driver assistance and information tech’.

AMG specific exterior features include strong visuals capped by wide, distinctive wheel arches and large wheels/tyres creating a powerful stance.

Under the lithe skin is a range of performance-focused equipment including AMG-developed 4Matic+ all-wheel drive, active rear-axle steering and AMG Ride Control for enhanced capability while under the bonnet is an M256M 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder twin turbo engine producing 330kW and up to 560Nm of torque.

Output is aided not only by the exhaust turbochargers but also and additional electric compressor with over-boost up to 600Nm available for a period of 12 seconds.

Add to that a 48-volt Integrated Starter Generator that can briefly supply up to 17kW and 205Nm contributing to what Benz describes as “powerful and highly responsive acceleration”.

Drive goes to both axles through an AMG Speedshift 9G, nine-speed automatic transmission calibrated to deliver short shift times, quick response and a double-declutch function and multiple downshifts.

The CLE 53 4Matic+ Cabriolet clocks a 0-100km/h sprint in 4.2 seconds the transmission immediately implementing rapid upshifts (and downshifts) and is especially responsive in the Sport+ drive program and in manual mode.

‘Benz says the driver’s mode selection facilitates dynamic acceleration manoeuvres, adapted shift times, or a fuel-saving driving style. Driver engagement is facilitated through galvanised shift paddles on the wheel to allow manual shifting of the AMG transmission.

Exterior enhancements include: AMG-specific A-shaped radiator grille with a large air inlet for high air flow, expressive bonnet domes, side-mounted vents, and a noticeably wider track than other CLE models, flared wheel arches, and 20-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels with red brake callipers.

The powerful appearance of the vehicle’s rear is enhanced by two-part LED lights with three-dimensional light bodies. A dark-red design element connects the taillights, emphasising the width of the car’s rear.

Other notable elements include round double tailpipe trims that are harmoniously integrated into the rear skirt.

The look is further enhanced by both the AMG Exterior Night Packages I and II that add an array of eye-catching high-gloss black trim elements.

Inside places a focus on the driver in rich, premium materials, “unique” equipment and the latest generation of the MBUX infotainment system.

The driver scores a free-standing 12.3-inch fully digital display while another 11.9-inch central display in portrait format is oriented toward the driver.

The central display can be power tilted while other interior kit includes an AMG Performance steering wheel, heated and electrically adjustable leather seats with red contrasting topstitching as standard, ambient lighting, Burmester surround sound system and Keyless go.

The Driving Assistance Plus and the Guard 360-degree Vehicle Protection Plus Packages are added as standard features over the lesser CLE Cabriolet model.

Multiple drive mode combinations are available for selection and as expected, the ragtop features a comprehensive array of ADAS tech’.