► New Mercedes-AMG 53 range shown
► Merc-AMG CLS 53 and E53 models
► News, pictures, specs from Detroit show
A new generation of straight six mild hybrid engines will power the new AMG 53 range launched by Mercedes-Benz at the 2018 Detroit motor show. It’s the new ‘starter AMG’ badge for the larger cars, akin to the 43 brand now well established in the C-class range.
The Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 and E53 Coupe and Cabriolet will pioneer this new name and UK right-hand drive deliveries are expected to start by autumn 2018. The order books open in April 2018, with UK pricing expected in this ballpark:
- CLS 53 £74,000
- E53 Coupe £65,000
- E53 Cabriolet £70,000
Check out our full guide to the Detroit motor show here
Engines, specs of the new Mercedes-AMG 53 models
This is the long-mooted new inline six-cylinder engine range that CAR first scooped back in 2010. You can read a full tech explainer on the new engine family here.
It’s a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, boosted by twin turbochargers (one a conventional turbo and one an electric auxiliary compressor) to create 429bhp and 384lb ft of torque, driving through a nine-speed AMG automatic gearbox and 4Matic all-wheel drive.
But the mild hybrid bit comes from the latest 48v electrical system, which allows for EQ Boost to be fitted. This starter-generator provides pulses of acceleration when required, adding a further 16kW of power equivalent to 21bhp and 184lb ft.
Check out our full detailed guide to the new Mercedes-Benz CLS range here
So how fast are the Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 and E53?
Pretty rapid, without quite stepping on the toes of the 63 models (which continue unchanged, with their 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8s). The performance specs for the new AMG 53 range look something like this:
- Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4Matic 4.5sec 0-62mph, 155mph top speed, 200g/km CO2, 1980kg weight
- Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic+ Coupe 4.4sec 0-62mph, 155mph top speed, 200g/km CO2, 1970kg weight
- Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic+ Cabriolet 4.5sec 0-62mph, 155mph top speed, 201g/km CO2, 2055kg weight
You can spot the new 53 models by twin horizontal blades in the radiator grille (shown on the CLS 53 above), a bespoke toughened-but-not-quite-63 front spoiler, side sills and a rear apron with a diffuser look.
An Edition 1 early-bird collectors’ special will be available on the CLS, with special copper paint and interior finish plus a special IWC clock.
The 53 range will also be offered on the E-class two-door range, including the the E53 Cabriolet below.
We’re living with a Mercedes-AMG C43: read our long-term review here
