2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE53 review | CarExpert

No brand does nomenclature quite like Mercedes-Benz, or should I say Mercedes-AMG.

From the A-Class to the V-Class and everything in between, the Merc universe is an overwhelming collection of lettered models, categories and sub-categories.

Yet somehow the product planners in Germany have found room for another new nameplate in the form of this – the Mercedes-AMG CLE53 Coupe.

Mercedes-AMG says the new model “combines the best of two worlds: the agility and sportiness of the C-Class with the space and status of the E-Class”. We’ll be the judge of that.

First impressions? This chunky performance coupe is a mean-looking machine. It’s got serious road presence, with a wide stance, flared arches, and aggressive styling.

And, despite the current trend of engine downsizing, it’s got a beefy 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline petrol six to match. Expect a twin-turbo V8-powered CLE63 to join the range soon.

The replacement for the C-Class and E-Class coupes will compete against a shrinking set of luxury performance machines in Australia. Think the BMW M440i/M4, Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, and upcoming Audi S5. You can throw the Porsche 718 Cayman in there too, considering the similarity in price.

It’s a small yet impressive pool of rivals, so where does the CLE53 sit amongst them?

How much does the Mercedes-AMG CLE53 cost?

Priced from $158,900 before on-road costs, the CLE53 4Matic+ Coupe (as it’s officially called) is more than $35,000 dearer than the turbocharged four-cylinder CLE300 Coupe.

For context, the last AMG C43 4Matic coupe – which also featured a twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine – was priced from $131,770 before on-road costs, while the AMG E53 4Matic+ was $177,670 plus on-roads.

To see how the Mercedes-AMG CLE stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool

What is the Mercedes-AMG CLE53 like on the inside?

The interior of the CLE53 houses all the tech and features you could possible ask for in a top-of-the-range $160k luxury coupe, but that doesn’t make it a complete package.

The cabin feels solid and well-assembled, with no rattles, squeaks, or play in any of the panels. Most of the surfaces are pleasant to interact with, too.

Soft leather covers the top of the dash, door cards, and centre console, giving this flagship AMG variant a luxurious feel. There’s no hiding its sporty side either, as the ergonomic steering wheel presents in a combination of leather and microfibre suede.

However, the textured wood trim on the dash of our tester felt out of place. Buyers can instead opt to trim this section in glossy carbon fibre, which would be my preference.

Another disappointing detail – my knee kept coming into contact with hard plastic on the inside of the centre tunnel. Some padding here would be welcome.

In standard trim, the CLE53 features bright silver metallic accents throughout the cabin, all of which are very on-brand and cut through the sea of black leather and plastic. An impressive 64-colour ambient lighting system serves a similar purpose.

Several seat options are available with the CLE53 – standard, multi-contour, and AMG Performance. We experienced the latter, which offer pronounced side bolsters, fully electric adjustment options and seat heating.

The AMG seats are less hardcore than one might expect, providing ample cushioning over longer journeys. At 185cm tall and 90kg on the scales I found the driver’s pew to be a snug fit, the side bolsters wrapping around my thighs and ribcage in a way that kept me stable during dynamic driving without compromising everyday comfort.

Seat controls can be found on the door cards, laid out in 3D diagram fashion with separate buttons for memory settings and seat heating.

A wide range of adjustment is built in, enabling a low, sporty seating position that aligns with the car’s character. The steering wheel also comes with electric adjustment. There’s shouldn’t be any excuse for discomfort then, right?

Not quite. As a taller type, I found the dead pedal to be too small for my size 13 feet – an annoying inconvenience. The ergonomic quirk forced me to rest half my left foot on the dead pedal with half on the floor, a position that’s tough to maintain.

The rest of the cabin is well thought out, with a minimalist design and user-friendly controls. Centred around a waterfall-style infotainment touchscreen, the centre stack features just a single control bar for ease of use and a clean aesthetic.

The screen itself measures 11.9 inches, and it features the latest MBUX software. That means lightning fast responses and crisp graphics, as well as a familiar app grid layout.

Each app is easily identifiable with large text and image labels, so you’ll never get lost looking for something even though there’s an extensive set of apps including YouTube, Amazon, Spotify, Apple Music, weather, news, and games. And we couldn’t possibly forget the AMG Performance app – your real-time driving data companion for track days.

Wireless smartphone mirroring is standard if the native infotainment doesn’t take your fancy.

All the climate controls permanently reside at the bottom of the infotainment screen, which makes it easy to tinker with fan and temperature settings. Touch-capacitive buttons below the screen control drive modes, cameras, interior functions, and audio.

The infotainment screen pairs with a 12.3-inch landscape instrument display that shares the same high level of visual appeal and functionality.

You can customise the virtual cluster to show key vehicle readouts in a variety of ways, from traditional gauges to more futuristic layouts. Regardless, the display remains clean, modern, and uncluttered.

Adjustments are made via touch capacitive buttons on the steering wheel. Not only are these fiddly to operate, but the gloss black plastic gathers fingerprints quickly.

For all its luxurious fittings and technological wizardry, the CLE53 isn’t particularly practical.

Front row storage is limited to long door bins, a shallow centre console, configurable storage between the seats (including cupholders), and a tiered glovebox.

Additionally, there’s a pair of USB-C outlets under the infotainment screen, plus one more in the centre console. A wireless smartphone charging pad rounds out the connectivity options up front.

So far, so good. But it’s once you move back into the second row that things take a turn for the worse.

The lack of rear doors can make second row ingress and egress a tricky and time-consuming task.

Upon pulling a tab located on the shoulder of each front seat, you’re forced to wait as the seat slowly slides forward. Then it’s a matter of squeezing yourself through the opening into the second row, a process which average sized adults are likely to struggle with.

The difficulty of accessing the rear seats foreshadows their limited usability. A distinct lack of headroom caps passenger height at 170cm, so you can only imagine how I looked trying to fit at 185cm.

Legroom is similarly lacking, and the hard plastic seat backs are harsh on squashed knees. There’s not much space for feet under the front seats, either.

Indeed, the second row is best suited to children, or shorter adults for brief trips. The spartan nature of the space reflects its intended purpose.

Amenities are few, with basics like USB outlets and map pockets missing. Instead, you get small storage cubbies beside each seats and a pair of fixed cupholders between the seats, as well as dual air vents.

Small, slit-like rear windows offer little outwards visibility, and black headlining makes the back feel even more claustrophobic. I can understand the need for an extra set of seats if you have young children to ferry around, but this cabin configuration doesn’t add much value for single drivers or couples.

That’s especially true when you consider the CLE53 is down on boot space compared to its main rivals. With 420L of cargo capacity, it’s shaded by the BMW 4 Series (440L), Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio (480L), and Porsche 718 Cayman (425L combined boot and under-bonnet storage).

The electric tailgate opens to reveal a narrow aperture and steep load lip, which makes loading bulky items challenging. Considering the impracticality of the rear seats, I’d be inclined to fold them flat for extra cargo space when possible.

To see how the Mercedes-AMG CLE stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool

What’s under the bonnet?

It packs an updated version of Benz’s M256 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, called the M256M.

The updated engine features redesigned inline and outlet channels, new piston rings, a new exhaust gas turbocharger and a new electric additional compressor, allowing for an increase in boost pressure by 0.4 bar to 1.5 bar.

An integrated starter-generator, positioned within the gearbox bell housing, briefly supplies an additional 17kW and 205Nm, feeds the 48V electrical system, and allows the vehicle to coast without the combustion engine on.

To see how the Mercedes-AMG CLE stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool

How does the Mercedes-AMG CLE53 drive?

The CLE53 combines elements of the C-Class, E-Class, and AMG models for a unique package that’s more high-performance grand tourer than razor-sharp sports coupe.

It starts up quietly by default, and no amount of tinkering in the infotainment menus can change that. And setting off in an urban setting, there’s a calm stability about the CLE53 that isn’t always associated with hot-blooded speed machines.

The adaptive suspension setup is comfortable and compliant right through its range of settings, from Comfort mode right through to Sport+. You barely feel the road surface through the bottom of your seat, while speed humps and potholes are ironed out confidently.

Adaptive damping is just one of many customisable driving qualities in the CLE53. Like the suspension, the steering also has three separate modes, varying in weight and sensitivity. Rear axle steering is standard, with a maximum steering angle of 2.5 degrees.

Even in its sportiest setting, the steering rack is very light with little organic feel through the wheel, which detracts from its appeal as a drivers car.

However, that makes the CLE53 easy to pilot in town, as it requires little effort to steer in the city. Having said that, it’s both long and wide, so you have to be spatially aware in parking lots.

There’s a big rear three-quarter blind spot, though blind-spot monitoring tech helps.

During gentle driving, the beast under the bonnet remains subdued, especially with the exhaust valves closed. Most of the aural experience comes via engine noise that’s piped into the cabin, which has a nice tone but never dominates the driving experience.

Both the engine and exhaust are multi-modal – in comfort mode the CLE53 sneaks around in relative anonymity. The neighbours will thank you, and you’ll be able to appreciate the quietness and refinement this vehicle offers.

Around town, the nine-speed auto sometimes feels a bit confused at low speeds. When accelerating up to 50-60km/h before lifting off throttle, the transmission can be hesitant to shift up.

That hesitance evaporates once you find a stretch of open road.

The twin-charged 3.0-litre inline-six is susceptible to a bit of old fashioned turbo lag, so its talents can be forgotten at lower speeds. However, with some room to move the engine proves its worth.

It pulls strongly from 3000rpm all the way to redline, backed by a soundtrack of turbocharger suction and a smooth six-cylinder note.

Mercedes-AMG says the CLE53 will sprint from 0-100km/h in four seconds flat, which is on par with key European rivals. It doesn’t quite feel that quick, though.

Perhaps that’s down to the nine-speed automatic transmission. It’s not the quickest gearbox going around and shifts can be lethargic with a noticeable delay between ratios, especially in manual mode.

Manual shifting is a necessity if you want to fully involve yourself in the driving experience, and prevent the computers from taking over when you hit the top of each gear. The curved metal shift paddles are a pleasure to use, both tactile and premium.

Even when pushed hard, the CLE53 is never particularly shouty. The exhaust remains refined and tuneful, emitting only occasional occasional crackles. When you roll the windows down, you get as much turbo whoosh as you do exhaust bark.

Throughout our road test, the handling dynamics of the CLE53 reflect its straight-line behaviour – it’s capable without offering many raw thrills.

The all-wheel-drive system provides seemingly endless grip which gives you confidence to attack corners at speed, while the steering is light and direct, albeit devoid of feel.

If it’s fun you’re chasing, the CLE53 features a ‘Drift Mode’, which sends all power to the rear wheels across the entire speed range.

However, this sleek coupe is a heavy so-and-so, weighing in at around two tonnes. That starts to show in tighter, lower speed manoeuvres, where the CLE53 doesn’t feel particularly agile.

It also feels wide, taking up most of the lane on tight country roads. As such, you are forced to be more aware of lane positioning, and there’s less room to move around the road.

The suspension never feels especially stiff either, suggesting some of the performance potential has been left untapped, perhaps for the flagship CLE63. Regardless of setting, the ride is composed and comfortable.

That’s beneficial during cross-country highway touring, which the CLE53 does exceptionally well.

In Comfort mode, the adaptive dampers do a great job smoothing out rough Tasmanian roads, while road and wind noise are well-managed. Any tyre noise can be effectively eliminated by turning the stereo up.

A brimming suite of advanced driver assist systems (ADAS) is on hand for long stints on the highway, including adaptive cruise control with active lane-centring.

To see how the Mercedes-AMG CLE stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool

What do you get?

The new Mercedes-AMG CLE53 is available in a single trim grade, with several additional option packs available to purchase.

AMG CLE53 Coupe equipment highlights:

• 20-inch light-alloy wheels
• Adaptive damping
• Rear-axle steering (up to 2.5 degrees)
• Automatic high-beam LED headlights
• AMG Exterior Night Package 1 and 2
• AMG illuminated door sill plates
• AMG floor mats
• Nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel with Microcut microfibre
• Black leather upholstery with red contrast stitching
• Carbon interior trim
• 64-colour ambient lighting
• Head-up display
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• DAB+ digital radio
• Burmester surround sound system
• Panoramic sunroof
• Keyless entry and start
• Power boot-lid
• Rear privacy glass

To see how the Mercedes-AMG CLE stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool

Options

A handful of option packages are available for the CLE53 4Matic+ Coupe.

Plus Package: $2100

• Multicontour front seats
• Energising package plus
• Air-balance package
• Memory parking assistant

Carbon Package: $8900

• Carbon-fibre exterior trim
  • Front splitter
  • Mirror caps
  • Side sill panel inserts
  • Lip spoiler
• Carbon-fibre steering wheel and interior trim

AMG Performance seats are also available for an additional $5400.

To see how the Mercedes-AMG CLE stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool

Is the Mercedes-AMG CLE53 safe?

The Mercedes-Benz CLE has yet to be tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP.

Standard safety equipment includes:

• 10 airbags
• Adaptive cruise control
• Autonomous emergency braking
  • Pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Driving Assistant Package Plus
  • Active speed limit assist
  • Front cross-traffic alert
  • Safe exit warning
  • Evasive steering assist
  • Cyclist, pedestrian and vehicle detection
  • Extended automatic restart function on motorways
  • Route-based speed adaptation with end of traffic jam function
  • Active Stop-and-Go Assist
  • Active Steering Assist with hands-off warning
• Lane-keep assist
• Parking assist
• Surround-view camera
• Traffic sign recognition

To see how the Mercedes-AMG CLE stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool

How much does the Mercedes-AMG CLE53 cost to run?

All Mercedes-Benz and AMG models in Australia are covered by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.

To see how the Mercedes-AMG CLE stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool

CarExpert’s Take on the Mercedes-AMG CLE53

The new Mercedes-AMG CLE53 benefits from the the fact it has few direct competitors in the new car market.

If you’re after a mid-sized, two-door European performance coupe with four seats, the only real alternative is the BMW M4. The Audi S5/RS5 has also traditionally been an option in this space, but the next-generation model won’t go on sale in Australia until later this year.

Expanding the parameters a little, the Porsche 718 Cayman offers a more focused driving experience, but you’ll have to leave the kids at home. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Italy’s Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is brimming with practicality and packs a Ferrari-derived V6 under the bonnet. However, at the end of the day it’s a sedan – not quite as sexy as the curvaceous, perfectly proportioned CLE53.

Aside from a muscular stance, the CLE53 has approachable all-wheel drive performance, a comfortable ride, and state-of-the-art interior technology on its side.

On the other hand, it lacks a little bit of soul, and isn’t as practical as its 2+2 layout might suggest. The M4 has it covered in both these regards, with a bigger boot and characterful engine.

That said, the CLE53 wears a much more attractive price tag. It’s $31,000 cheaper than the least expensive automatic M4. At $158,900 before on-road costs, the CLE53 is also around the same mark as a four-cylinder Cayman S or base Giulia Quadrifoglio.

While my main point of reference here is the M4, that’s still not quite comparing apples with apples. The M4 holds a significant performance advantage, and sits at the top of its model line.

Meanwhile, the CLE53 is set to sit below the CLE63, which will bring a fire-breathing twin-turbo V8 and an inflated price tag to match.

Indeed, the CLE53 is a truly unique proposition in the current automotive landscape. It’s a stylish and mature coupe with more than enough go to demolish some twisty roads… just don’t expect a visceral driving experience.

If you’re chasing a raucous soundtrack or track-ready dynamics it might be best to look elsewhere, but as a performance car without much compromise, the AMG is a decent bet.

Interested in buying a Mercedes-AMG CLE53? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here

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