Mercedes-AMG continues to push the boundaries of performance and efficiency with the introduction of the CLS 53 AMG. This model marks a significant step in AMG’s journey towards a hybridized future, blending sporty dynamics with intelligent technology. The CLS 53 AMG, along with its 53-series siblings in the E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet, showcases a new era of AMG performance, characterized by a cutting-edge combination of power, style, and optimized fuel economy.
At the heart of the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG lies a revolutionary powertrain: a newly developed, electrified 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This advanced engine is not just about raw power; it’s about intelligent performance. Featuring an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor, this engine delivers an impressive 429 horsepower and a robust 384 lb-ft of torque. What truly sets it apart is the EQ Boost starter-alternator system. This innovative technology momentarily provides an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, while also feeding the 48V on-board electrical system. This electrification not only enhances performance but also contributes to the vehicle’s overall efficiency. Paired with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission and the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, the CLS 53 AMG is engineered for exhilarating performance in any driving condition.
Distinguishing the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG from its counterparts are several unique design elements. These visual cues are not merely aesthetic; they are functional, contributing to both the car’s sporty appeal and aerodynamic efficiency. The twin-blade radiator grille in silver chrome immediately identifies it as an AMG model, a design cue previously reserved for the high-performance V8 AMG models. The front bumper, sculpted in an A-wing design, incorporates black flics and a silver chrome front splitter, enhancing the aggressive stance and optimizing airflow. AMG-specific side sill panels further accentuate the dynamic silhouette, while the rear bumper, featuring a diffuser insert and round exhaust tailpipe trim elements in high-gloss chrome, completes the sporty and sophisticated look.
Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH at the time of release, emphasized the strategic importance of the 53-series, stating, “With the new 53-series models we are extending our portfolio in a first step towards a hybridized future with a leading-edge combination of sporty design, performance and efficiency.” He further highlighted the core AMG characteristics: “The very spontaneous response to accelerator pedal input, the precision and the design focusing on driving dynamics are hallmark features of AMG.” The Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG is designed to appeal to a lifestyle-oriented customer group seeking an attractive and dynamic offering from Affalterbach.
The Innovative Powertrain: EQ Boost and Electric Auxiliary Compressor
The 3.0-liter inline-six engine in the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG is a marvel of modern engineering, blending top-tier performance with intelligent electrification. The EQ Boost starter-alternator is a pivotal component, acting as both a starter motor and an alternator, positioned strategically between the engine and transmission. This innovation, combined with the electric auxiliary compressor and exhaust gas turbocharger, is designed to amplify the hallmark AMG performance and driving dynamics while simultaneously reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The result is a remarkable balance: the AMG CLS 53 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 4.4 seconds, showcasing its potent performance capabilities.
Instant Torque and Response: Eliminating Turbo Lag
One of the key advantages of the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG’s powertrain is its exceptional responsiveness. The EQ Boost starter-alternator provides immediate support when starting off, while the electric auxiliary compressor rapidly builds up charge pressure. This ensures a faster increase in torque for acceleration, effectively eliminating turbo lag until the exhaust gas turbocharger fully engages. The 3.0-liter engine reacts with remarkable spontaneity, delivering a highly dynamic response across the rev range. Furthermore, the inline-six configuration contributes to a high level of engine refinement, enhancing the overall driving experience.
48V On-Board Electrical System: Paving the Way for Hybridization
The 48V on-board electrical system, powered by the EQ Boost starter-alternator, is a critical element in the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG’s advanced technology. This system not only powers the EQ Boost functions but also supplies the conventional 12V network via a DC/DC converter. The increased battery capacity afforded by the 48V system enables more electrical energy availability, facilitating innovative functions and laying the groundwork for further hybridization in future models. An additional benefit of the 48V system is its efficiency: it requires only a quarter of the current compared to a traditional 12V system for the same power output. This allows for thinner and lighter wiring, indirectly contributing to fuel savings. The existing 12V system continues to power essential components such as lights, cockpit instruments, infotainment displays, and control units.
Hybrid Functionality: Maximizing Efficiency with EQ Boost
The EQ Boost starter-alternator is more than just a power booster; it’s a core component of the 48V system, enabling key hybrid functions in the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG. These functions contribute to fuel savings previously associated only with high-voltage hybrid technology. For the first time in this class, the EQ Boost system also manages idle speed control.
The hybrid functionalities include:
- Boost: Providing an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque for enhanced acceleration.
- Recuperation: Recovering kinetic energy during deceleration and braking, converting it into electrical energy to recharge the battery.
- Shifting of the load point: Optimizing engine efficiency by adjusting the engine’s operating point.
- Gliding mode: Allowing the vehicle to coast with the engine decoupled at certain speeds, minimizing fuel consumption.
- Virtually imperceptible engine restarting: Ensuring smooth and quick restarts of the engine during start/stop operation.
By eliminating the belt drive for ancillary components at the front of the engine, the new six-cylinder engine’s installation length is significantly reduced compared to conventional six-cylinder engines. This creates valuable space for an engine-mounted exhaust gas aftertreatment system, enhancing its efficiency. The standard particulate filter is the only part of the exhaust system located under the floor.
Exterior Design: AMG Aesthetics and Aerodynamics
The exterior of the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG is visually striking, characterized by unique AMG design cues that reflect its performance pedigree. The twin-blade radiator grille, finished in silver chrome, immediately sets it apart. Unlike the diamond radiator grille with individual pins found on other models, the CLS 53 AMG features a black lattice pattern behind the twin blades.
The front bumper in A-wing design is not only visually aggressive but also aerodynamically functional. It incorporates black flics and a front splitter in silver chrome, along with outer air intakes featuring two horizontal fins in silver chrome. These elements work together to optimize airflow around the front of the vehicle. AMG-specific side sill panels further enhance the dynamic side profile, while the redesigned rear bumper with a diffuser insert and classic, round twin tailpipe trim elements in high-gloss chrome emphasizes the car’s sporty rear. The lip spoiler on the trunk lid is painted in body color but is also available in carbon-fiber as an option, allowing for further customization.
Unique CLS 53 AMG Exterior Features
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG distinguishes itself further with specific exterior enhancements. The front bumper incorporates additional side air curtains, strategically designed to channel airflow, improving aerodynamics at the front and reducing the drag coefficient (Cd figure). The front splitter seamlessly integrates with the air curtain design, reducing lift at the front axle and enhancing stability at high speeds. The radiator grille’s outer lines widen towards the bottom, giving the CLS 53 AMG a powerful and planted stance, further emphasized by the sharply cut, narrow headlamps.
Mirroring the design of AMG GT models, the exterior mirrors are positioned on the doors, contributing to a more dynamic and streamlined appearance. The two-section tail lights visually widen the rear, while also providing a practical benefit by allowing for a larger trunk opening. The broader track width not only enhances cornering performance but also visually pushes the wheels further out, creating a more muscular stance. The CLS 53 AMG comes standard with 19-inch aerodynamically optimized light-alloy wheels, with 20-inch wheels available as an option for those seeking an even more aggressive look.
Interior: Innovative Digital Cockpit and AMG Sportiness
The interior of the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG welcomes occupants with an exclusive blend of model-specific appointments, luxurious materials, and advanced technology. The centerpiece of the interior is the innovative control and display concept, featuring bright, dual high-resolution 12.3-inch displays. These displays merge seamlessly under a shared glass cover to form the Widescreen Cockpit, a central element that emphasizes the horizontal orientation of the interior design.
The standard “Widescreen Cockpit” integrates a large display with virtual instruments directly in the driver’s line of sight and a central display positioned above the center console. The fully digital cockpit allows drivers to personalize their experience with three different display styles: “Classic,” “Sporty,” and “Progressive.” Drivers can also configure the information and views displayed according to their preferences. The AMG menu provides access to performance data, including engine and transmission oil temperature, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, engine output and torque, boost pressure, tire temperatures and pressures, and the current vehicle setup.
Touch-sensitive Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel enable intuitive operation of the infotainment system without requiring the driver to take their hands off the wheel. The infotainment system can also be controlled via the touchpad with controller in the center console and through an advanced voice control system. Voice control functionality extends to vehicle functions, allowing for voice commands to manage the air conditioning, seat heating/ventilation, interior lights, and the optional head-up display.
AMG Performance Steering Wheel and Exclusive Appointments
The synthesis of exclusivity and sportiness is further highlighted by the sports seats, featuring an integral seat design and AMG-specific upholstery layout, complete with AMG badges. Red seat belts and carbon fiber trim elements add to the sporty ambiance. The new, standard-fit AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather enhances the driving experience, with options for wood inserts in piano lacquer or DINAMICA microfiber in the grip area for personalization.
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG offers a wider range of interior colors and materials compared to previous 43-series models. Upholstery options include MB-Tex man-made leather/DINAMICA microfiber, nappa leather, and designo interiors. Color combinations range from classic black with red or grey contrasting stitching to more expressive options like black/saddle brown, black/white, black/classic red, designo titian red/macchiato beige, and designo titanium grey/black.
For the AMG CLS 53 specifically, alongside designo appointments, color combinations include macchiato beige/magma grey, black/Bengal red, and espresso brown/magma grey. In these configurations, the ambient color is echoed on the steering wheel rim, creating a cohesive and luxurious feel. The color concept extends systematically to the rear area in a wave design. The integral seats in the AMG CLS 53, with adjustable head restraints, have been redesigned to optimize comfort, ergonomics, sportiness, and safety.
The rear seat row has been redesigned to accommodate three full-size seats, enhancing practicality. The 40:20:40 split-folding seat backrest and height-adjustable head restraints provide increased flexibility and everyday usability.
Driving Dynamics: Transmission, All-Wheel Drive, and Suspension
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG’s performance is not just about power; it’s about how that power is delivered and managed on the road. Key to this is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission, which is paired with the 3.0-liter in-line engine. This transmission is engineered for extremely short shift times, rapid response to shift paddle inputs, a double-declutching function, and the capability for multiple downshifts. Whether in automatic mode or manually controlled via the steering wheel shift paddles, gear changes are executed instantly, providing a dynamic and engaging driving experience.
Power is channeled to the road through the standard fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. This intelligent system seamlessly blends the advantages of different drive concepts, continuously varying torque distribution between the front and rear axles. This ensures optimal traction, high handling stability, and enhanced safety in diverse conditions, whether driving on dry pavement, in wet conditions, or in snow. The transition between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive is imperceptible, as the intelligent control is integrated into the vehicle’s overall system architecture.
An electro-mechanically controlled clutch variably connects the permanently driven rear axle to the front axle, constantly calculating the optimal torque split based on driving conditions and driver input. This allows for a continuous spectrum of drive modes, ranging from traction-focused all-wheel drive to purely rear-wheel drive, with seamless transitions based on a complex matrix. Beyond traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel drive system also enhances longitudinal dynamics, contributing to even more powerful acceleration.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT and RIDE CONTROL+ Suspension
With AMG DYNAMIC SELECT, drivers can tailor the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG’s driving characteristics to their personal preferences via five distinct drive modes: “Eco,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” and “Individual.” These modes adjust key parameters such as engine response, transmission behavior, suspension settings, and steering feel, ranging from efficient and comfortable to highly sporty. Independently of the selected DYNAMIC SELECT program, drivers can engage manual mode by pressing the “M” button, allowing gearshifts to be controlled exclusively via the steering wheel shift paddles. Suspension settings can also be manually adjusted.
The AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension, developed in Affalterbach, further enhances agility, cornering performance, and traction. This multi-chamber air suspension features a sporty spring/damper setup and continuously adjustable damping ADS+ (Adaptive Damping System). It combines exceptional driving dynamics with a high level of ride comfort. A firmer spring rate, particularly during cornering and braking, effectively reduces body roll.
The front axle is equipped with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints, with all components optimized for rigidity. Increased negative camber on both the front and multi-link rear axles enhances lateral dynamics. The elastokinematics of both axles are designed to be more rigid overall, collectively improving agility and boosting dynamic handling.
Damping at each wheel is continuously adjusted to suit the prevailing driving situation and road conditions, using two separate valves for rebound and compression forces within the dampers. Drivers can pre-select damping characteristics through three modes: “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport+,” allowing for a noticeable differentiation between long-distance comfort and sporty driving dynamics.
Thanks to pneumatic all-round self-leveling, the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG maintains a consistent ride height regardless of vehicle load. To increase ground clearance, for instance, on steep inclines or ramps, the vehicle level can be raised at the touch of a button. Conversely, the level automatically lowers at higher speeds, improving handling stability by lowering the center of gravity.
AMG Speed-Sensitive Steering and Compound Braking System
The electromechanical speed-sensitive steering in the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG features a variable ratio, providing precise and authentic feedback. Steering power assistance is selectable between two modes: “Comfort” and “Sport.” These characteristics are automatically activated based on the chosen DYNAMIC SELECT drive program. In “Sport” mode, more direct feedback about the vehicle’s status is conveyed to the driver.
Ensuring reliable and rapid deceleration, the large compound braking system features internally ventilated compound brake discs. At the front, perforated and internally ventilated discs measuring 14.6″ x 1.4″ are paired with 4-piston fixed calipers and AMG lettering. The rear utilizes internally ventilated discs measuring 14.2″ x 1.0″ with single-piston floating calipers. This robust braking system provides fade-resistant and dependable stopping power for the high-performance CLS 53 AMG.
Comfort and Technology: ENERGIZING Comfort Control and Intelligent Drive
For enhanced well-being on long journeys, the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG offers the optional ENERGIZING comfort control system. This system links various comfort features within the vehicle, utilizing specific functions of the air conditioning, seats (heating, ventilation, massage), surface heating, steering wheel heating, ambient lighting, and music moods. Depending on the driver’s mood or needs, ENERGIZING comfort control creates a tailored wellness setup designed to enhance overall well-being and performance.
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG also incorporates the latest generation of driving assistance systems from the S-Class, categorized under Intelligent Drive. The range of driving assistance and safety systems is modular, with standard features including Active Braking Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, and the PRE-SAFE® occupant protection system. New standard equipment also includes PRE-SAFE® Sound, which prepares human hearing for the anticipated noise of an accident when a collision risk is detected.
The optional Driving Assistance Package further expands safety and convenience, including Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Active Braking Assist with Cross-Traffic Function, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and PRE-SAFE® PLUS. Active Distance Control DISTRONIC and Active Steering Assist now offer even more refined support for maintaining a safe distance and steering assistance, automatically adjusting speed ahead of bends or junctions. Active Lane Changing Assist has also been significantly enhanced. The Driving Assistance Plus package includes PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side, which can brace front occupants for a side impact by nudging them sideways to reduce injury risk.
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG also adopts enhanced camera and radar systems from the Mercedes-Benz CLS, providing an optimal view of traffic conditions. For the first time, map and navigation data are utilized to anticipate and calculate vehicle behavior, further enhancing the intelligence and responsiveness of the driving assistance systems.
Exclusive Edition 1
At market launch, the exclusive Edition 1 model of the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG was available, featuring unique interior treatments that emphasized luxury and exclusivity. Numerous highlights in a fine copper color created a particularly high-quality interior ambiance. The black nappa leather upholstery featured copper-colored contrasting topstitching, mirrored on the instrument panel, armrests, center console, door panels, and floor mat piping.
Trim elements and the center console in carbon fiber with copper stitching, along with the Performance steering wheel featuring an Edition badge, underscored the vehicle’s exceptional status. Ambient lighting with 64 colors, the Memory and Mirror package, and an exclusive IWC analogue clock further reinforced the luxurious character of the Edition 1.
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG represents a significant step forward in AMG’s commitment to blending performance with efficiency and luxury. It offers a compelling package for those seeking a dynamic and technologically advanced vehicle with unmistakable AMG DNA.
Technical Data: Mercedes-AMG CLS 53
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L 6-cylinder in-line engine with exhaust gas turbocharger and electric auxiliary compressor |
| Displacement | 2,999 cc |
| Output | 429 hp at 6,100 rpm |
| Additional Output with EQ Boost | 21 hp |
| Peak Torque | 384 lb-ft at 1,800-5,800 rpm |
| Additional Torque with EQ Boost | 184 lb-ft |
| Drive System | AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution |
| Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph (est.) | 4.4 s |
| Top Speed | 130 mph* (electronically limited) |
*electronically limited
Please note that the information in this release is preliminary and subject to change.
