Key Takeaways

• Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 arrives with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six and gorgeous good looks.
• The electrified motor produces 443 horsepower and up to 443 lb-ft, resulting in 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.
• Arriving at US dealers in the second half of 2024.

Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the new CLE 53 Convertible, the range-topping performance variant of the elegant CLE-Class Convertible lineup. Powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, the sporty soft-top provides high levels of performance, menacing yet sophisticated style, and plenty of standard equipment. Arriving in the United States in the second half of 2024, here’s what you need to know about the CLE 53 drop-top.

The electrified inline-six delivers 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque, although an overboost function provides 443 lb-ft for up to 10 seconds. An integrated starter generator (ISG) delivers 23 hp and 151 lb-ft at lower speeds and assists the 48-volt electrical system. The motor is mated to a nine-speed AMG Speedshift TCT transmission, which channels power to all four wheels.

Quicker Than The Four-Cylinder AMG SL43

As a result, the CLE 53 Convertible is incredibly quick. With the Race Start feature (part of the AMG Dynamic Plus Package), 0-60 mph takes just 4.1 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 155 mph. This makes it 0.1 seconds slower to 60 mph than the new CLE 53 Coupe, but it’s much quicker than the four-cylinder SL 43, which hits the benchmark speed in 4.8 seconds.

AMG Ride Control suspension delivers a fine blend of comfort and agility. There is sportier damper tuning with adjustable damping that adapts quickly to the road conditions. The various drive modes – Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ – change the ride comfort and handling characteristics of the CLE 53 Convertible. A standard high-performance braking system includes ventilated discs at the front and rear.

Drift Mode And Available Performance Features

The 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system is rather clever and can decouple the front axle to aid efficiency. The system sends more torque to the rear from the Sport ESP setting upwards, allowing for sportier handling. A drift mode also enables the CLE to pull off spectacularly smoky slides in rear-wheel drive. An AMG Dynamic Plus Package introduces a Race Start and Race drive program with the aforementioned drift mode. Active engine mounts and red brake calipers at the front and rear are also part of the package.

Aesthetically, the flared wheel arches front and rear have done wonders for the CLE, providing the convertible with the stance it deserves. The track has been widened by 2.3 inches at the front and three inches at the rear, while 19-inch wheels are standard and 20-inch wheels optional. More aggressive bumpers, a vented hood like the C63, and splashes of chrome add more pizzazz, but the CLE 63 will doubtless be bolder.

Available Packages And Technology

Optionally, customers can specify Digital Lights and an AMG Performance Studio Package that introduces a high-gloss black trunk spoiler, a rear diffuser panel, and flics on the front/rear fascias. AMG Night packages are also available and include things such as a darkened radiator grille and high-gloss black badging. AMG Carbon Fiber accessories are also on offer. Customers can also make a choice from several roof colors, including black, red, or gray.

The cabin of the CLE 53 Convertible has AMG-specific touches, such as Black MB-Tex/microfiber upholstery with unique graphics and red stitching. Leather is an option and has a special coating that keeps the upholstery cooler by up to 53 degrees Fahrenheit, making top-down driving much more comfortable. Nappa leather is also available at an extra cost. A 12.3-inch digital driver’s display is complemented by an 11.9-inch central multimedia display that can be electrically adjusted from 15 to 40 degrees to negate reflections from the sunlight. 64-color ambient lighting is also standard.

Pricing And Availability

Those wanting a more dynamic experience can specify AMG Performance seats with more supportive bolsters. Mercedes has fitted the CLE 53 Convertible with several technologies that improve the top-down driving experience. This includes the Airscarf neck heater and Aircap wind deflector system, eliminating buffeting.

Mercedes has yet to announce US pricing, but customers can expect to pay more than $80,000 before options. The CLE 450 Pinnacle retails for $76,450 before options, so we wouldn’t be surprised if the AMG has a starting MSRP of $85,000. The upcoming CLE 63 Convertible variants will command even more cash but offer more power and performance.