Very soon, it seems you may be able to teach your child to count to 100 using a range of Mercedes-AMG models to do so. While monikers such as 32, 55, 63, 65, and even 73 have been used for some time, in recent years they’ve been adding more and more to the mix. There’s the 45 denomination on the A45, CLA45, and GLA45 AMGs, and just about every Mercedes from the C Class upwards has a semi-AMG ‘43’ variant. But as of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the E-Class coupe, cabriolet, and CLS model line-ups will be topped by a new Mercedes-AMG 53 model – and that isn’t a typo.
It lacks the same ring as the 63 models do, but Mercedes-AMG’s 53-badged models don’t quite offer the same levels of potency as the 63s do. At the heart of thee three Mercedes-AMG 53 derivatives, AMG is employing a newly developed inline-6 cylinder engine – ditching the V6s that they’ve used for many years. The new 6 is a 3.0-liter unit that features ‘electric twin-turbocharging’ – one turbo is a regular exhaust powered turbo, whilst the other is an e-turbo – essentially an electric compressor that delivers boost quicker to reduce lag.
Due to the electrified turbo setup, the 3.0-liter inline 6 develops outputs of 320kW at 6100r/min and a maximum torque figure of 520Nm from 1800-5800r/min. It will be mated to the AMG Speedshift 9G 9-speed automatic transmission in all applications, with drive sent to all corners via the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system.
In order to make the electric turbo work, Mercedes-AMG will equip the 53 models with a mild hybrid 48-volt electrical system. In addition to powering the e-turbo, the 48-volt system will also power onboard ancillaries. Additionally, the 48-volt system powers a boost starter-alternator – a compact motor Mercedes calls ‘EQ Boost’ – located between the engine and gearbox. On pull-away, the EQ Boost provides torque-fill for additional acceleration, supplying an instantaneous additional 16kW, and crucially, 250Nm.
This additional boost sees the Mercedes-AMG CLS53 4MATIC+ sprint from 0-100km/h in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 270km/h available with the Driver’s Package equipped. Mercedes also claim that the Mercedes-AMG 53 models will achieve incredible fuel consumption – claiming figures as low as 8.4l/100km on a combined cycle.
Visually, the Mercedes-AMG 53 model line-up will be differentiated by a couple of subtle styling cues. A twin-blade radiator grille in silver chrome – previously only on V8 models – is paired with a chrome front splitter and larger air intakes with silver aero fins. The rear of the Mercedes-AMG 53 models features a redesigned rear apron, quad round tailpipes, and a boot-lid spoiler.
While Mercedes fans will be used to there not being a Mercedes-AMG E63 Coupe, the loss of the 63 nomenclature for the new CLS may be somewhat disappointing. But there is a reason behind this. The Mercedes-AMG CLS53 will top the CLS range, as later this year Mercedes-AMG is expected to reveal the AMG GT4 – a 4 door coupe-styled version of the Mercedes-AMG GT that’s set to replace the CLS63 and take the fight to Porsche’s Panamera.
