Mercedes-AMG is extending its product range with the addition of three new models and at the same time introducing a new model designation: the 53-series models of the CLS, E-Class Coupe plus E-Class Cabriolet (combined fuel consumption: 8.5 – 8.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 201 – 200 g/km). They combine powerful performance with sporty style and high efficiency. At their heart lies a new, electrified 3.0-litre engine featuring twin-turbocharging by means of an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor. The 6‑cylinder in-line engine generates 320 kW (435 hp) and delivers maximum torque of 520 Nm. Its EQ Boost starter-alternator momentarily provides an additional 16 kW of output plus 250 Nm of torque and furthermore feeds the 48 V on-board electrical system. Other technical highlights include the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission and the fully variable all-wheel drive system AMG Performance 4MATIC+.
Distinguishing features which are common to the three new 53-series models comprise the twin-blade radiator grille, the front apron in A-wing design, the AMG-specific side sill panels, the rear apron with diffuser insert plus the round exhaust tailpipe trim elements in high-gloss chrome. The six-cylinder in-line engine is characterized by top-of-the-range performance and intelligent electrification. The EQ Boost starter-alternator combines a starter motor and alternator in a powerful electric motor and is fitted between the engine and transmission. This innovation as well as the intelligent charging via an electric auxiliary compressor and an exhaust gas turbocharger all have the same goal: to enhance the hallmark AMG performance and driving dynamics, while at the same time reducing fuel consumption and emissions. And this move has been a successful one: the CLS 53 4MATIC+ accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, and with the Driver’s package achieves a top speed of 270 km/h. The combined fuel consumption is 8.4 l/100 km, and the combined CO2 emissions 200 g/km. (see table detailing technical data for figures for E-Class 53-series models).
Supported by the EQ Boost starter-alternator when moving off, the electric auxiliary compressor builds up a high charge pressure without any delay, for a faster increase in torque for acceleration until the large exhaust gas turbocharger is deployed. As a result the 3.0-litre engine reacts extremely spontaneously and provides a highly dynamic response without turbo lag. An additional bonus is the high level of refinement of the six-cylinder in-line engine.
The power for the 48 V on-board electrical system is generated by the EQ Boost starter-alternator. The conventional 12 V network is likewise supplied from the new network – using a DC/DC converter. Thanks to the 48 V battery, the overall battery capacity in the vehicle is increased, enabling more electrical energy to be made available ‑ and therefore also allowing innovative functions to be introduced, for example. The 48 V on-board electrical system is therefore paving the way for further hybridization. An additional advantage: the same power requires only a quarter of the current of a conventional system. The result is that the wiring can be thinner and therefore lighter, which indirectly contributes to saving fuel. The existing 12 V system supplies power to consumers such as lights, cockpit, infotainment displays and control units.
The EQ Boost starter-alternator is a key component of the 48 V system and not only serves as an alternator, but is also responsible for hybrid functions. This allows fuel savings that were previously reserved for high-voltage hybrid technology. For the first time, the EQ Boost starter-alternator is also responsible for idle speed control. The hybrid functions include boost with 16 kW of output and 250 Nm of torque, recuperation, shifting of the load point, gliding mode and the virtually imperceptible restarting of the engine with the start/stop function.
Because the belt drive for ancillary components on the front edge of the engine is omitted, the installation length of the new six-cylinder engine is also significantly reduced compared with conventional six-cylinder engines. This creates space for an exhaust gas after treatment system mounted near the engine, which is therefore particularly efficient. The standard-fit particulate filter is the only part of the exhaust system that is under the floor.
Visually, too, the new 53-series models have a distinctive unique look. A distinctive feature common to the models is the twin-blade radiator grille in silver chrome, previously reserved for the V8 Performance models. Instead of the diamond radiator grille with individual pins, the grille in front of the central radiator now features a black lattice pattern. The front apron in an A-wing design is equipped with black flics and a front splitter in silver chrome. The outer air intakes have two horizontal fins in silver chrome. AMG-specific side sill panels lend the 53-series models a more dynamic silhouette.
When viewed from the rear, it is not just the redesigned rear apron that stands out, but also the classic, round twin tailpipe trim elements in high-gloss chrome. The design of the sides of the mud flaps improves the aerodynamics at the rear: As a result this provides for better air flow around the wheel arches. The spoiler lip on the boot lid is painted in the body color, but is optionally also available in carbon-fiber.
The front apron of the CLS 53 4MATIC+ features additional side air curtains: the air flows over them in a targeted manner, thereby improving the aerodynamics at the front and reducing the Cd figure. The front splitter connects seamlessly with the air curtain and reduces lift at the front axle. The outer lines of the radiator grille widen towards the bottom and lend the CLS a powerful appearance. Also making a contribution here are the sharply cut, narrow headlamps. The exterior mirrors are positioned on the doors, as in the AMG GT models, ensuring an even more dynamic look.
The two-section tail lights visually reinforce the sense of width of the rear and as an additional practical benefit allow for the large boot opening. The broader track width combines better cornering with a perfect look thanks to the wheels being positioned further out. As standard the CLS 53 comes with 19-inch aerodynamically optimized light-alloy wheels, and as an option 20-inch wheels can be ordered.
The interior of the new AMG models welcomes passengers with model-specific, exclusive appointments, luxurious materials and significantly extended options. On top of this there is the innovative control and display concept with bright, high-resolution displays optionally with 12.3-inch screen diagonal in each case. Visually, the two displays under one shared glass cover blend into a Widescreen Cockpit and as a central element consequently emphasize the horizontal orientation of the interior design.
By way of instrument cluster, the optional Widescreen Cockpit contains a large display with virtual instruments in the direct field of vision of the driver, as well as a central display above the center console. Because the cockpit is fully digital, the driver can choose the look from the three different display styles “Classic”, “Sporty” and “Progressive” and also configure the information and views relevant to him/her at will. Via the AMG menu, it is possible to display the engine and transmission oil temperature, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, engine output and torque, boost (charge pressure), tyre temperatures and pressures as well as the current vehicle set-up.
The touch-sensitive Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel respond to swiping movements. They enable the driver to control the entire infotainment system without having to take his/her hands off the steering wheel. The infotainment system can also be operated via the touchpad with controller in the center console and by LINGUATRONIC voice control. Voice control has been extended to include vehicle functions. Now the air conditioning and seat heating/ventilation, interior lights and the optional head-up display can also be controlled by voice commands.
The synthesis of exclusivity and sportiness is also underscored by the sports seats (featuring an integral seat look in the E 53 4MATIC+ Coupé and Cabriolet) with AMG-specific seat upholstery layout and AMG badge, red seat belts plus trim elements in carbon fiber or glass fiber in matt silver. The interior is rounded off with the new, standard-fit AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather with individualization options such as wood inserts in piano lacquer or DINAMICA microfiber in the grip area.
When it comes to interior colors and materials, the three new 53-series models boast significantly more options than the preceding 43-series models. For the appointments, there is a choice of ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfiber, nappa leather and designo interiors. In addition to classic black with red or grey contrasting topstitching, for the E 53 4MATIC+ Coupé and Cabriolet there are now also combinations in black/saddle brown, black/white, black/classic red, designo titian red/macchiato beige and designo titanium grey/black.
For the CLS 53 4MATIC+, alongside the designo appointments there is also a choice of color combinations in macchiato beige/magma grey, black/Bengal red and espresso brown/magma grey, in which case the ambient color is also repeated on the steering wheel rim. The color concept is systematically continued through to the rear area (wave design). In the CLS 53 4MATIC+, the integral seats with adjustable head restraints have also been redesigned and enhanced in terms of their shape, color and material choice. This includes all aspects relating to optimization of comfort, ergonomics, sportiness and safety. The rear seat row has also been redesigned with three full-size seats. The seat backrest which folds in a 40:20:40 split as well as height-adjustable head restraints enable greater flexibility and everyday practicality.
The new 3.0-litre in-line engine is coupled with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission, which impresses with extremely short shift times, fast response to shift paddle commands, double-declutching function and multiple downshifts. Whether automatic or initiated by the driver using the steering wheel shift paddles, upshifts or downshifts are implemented instantly. Especially in the “Sport+” and in manual driving modes, the transmission is very responsive.
Power is transferred to the road by the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, which also comes as standard. This intelligent system combines the advantages of different drive concepts: the fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axle not only ensures optimal traction, but the driver is also able to rely on high handling stability and a high level of safety under all conditions, in the dry, in the wet or in snow. The transition from rear-wheel to all-wheel drive and vice versa is seamless, because the intelligent control is integrated into the overall vehicle system architecture.
An electro-mechanically controlled clutch connects the permanently driven rear axle variably to the front axle. The best possible torque split is continuously computed according to the driving conditions and driver’s input. It is thus possible to drive in a continuously variable way from traction-oriented all-wheel drive to purely rear-wheel drive. Cross-fading takes place continuously based on a complex matrix. Alongside traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel drive also improves the longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration.
