Detroit show: Mercedes-AMG debuts 53 nameplate

MERCEDES-AMG has finally detailed the newest member of its powertrain family, the 53 inline six-cylinder hybrid set-up to be rolled out on the CLS, E-Class coupe and cabriolet ranges in Australia near the end of the year.

Revealed at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, the new powertrain, which is the first hybrid to wear an AMG badge, teams the all-new M256 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine to a combined starter motor and alternator.

The new petrol donk is capable of producing 320kW/520Nm, while the EQ Boost starter/alternator can momentarily offer up to 16kW of power and 250NM of torque, all while powering the 48-volt on-board electrical system.

Extra motivation for the petrol engine comes from a traditional exhaust gas turbocharger as well as an electric auxiliary compressor, which when supported by the starter/alternator can build a high charge pressure at low speeds for decreased turbo lag.

When up to speed, the larger exhaust gas turbocharger takes over, allowing the AMG CLS53 and E53 coupe to sprint from standstill to 100km.h in 4.5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 270km/h with the Driver’s package equipped.

Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolets are 0.1s slower to 100km/h.

Power is sent to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission in all versions, while fuel consumption in the CLS and E-Class coupe are rated at 8.4 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions measures 200 grams per kilometre, whereas the drop-top E-Class will return 8.5L/100km and emit 201g/km of CO2.

The EQ Boost unit also powers the new 48V on-board electrical system and existing 12V system, performing additional functions such as energy recuperation, coasting mode and restarting the engine when the idle-stop function is used.

Visually, the 53 models will be set apart by a distinctive twin-blade radiator grille and front splitter finished in silver chrome, black lattice pattern grille, a redesigned rear apron, wider track, and additional side air vents for the CLS53.

Inside, the widescreen cockpit set-up is used, while a choice of interior colours and materials are expanded over the preceding 43-series models. The new AMG Performance steering wheel comes as standard.

As with other Mercedes models, five drive modes are available consisting of Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual, which control settings such as suspension stiffness, steering feedback and transmission response.

The CLS53 will benefit from autonomous technology found in the recently-updated S-Class, with the Intelligent Drive suite including active braking assist, lane keep assist, speed limit assist and pre-safe, while the optional driving assistance package adds a number of extra semi-autonomous features.

To mark the release of the all-new CLS53 AMG, a special Edition 1 variant will be produced featuring copper-coloured interior trim, performance steering wheel with Edition 1 badging, and the exclusive IWC-branded analogue clock.

However, while Mercedes-Benz Australia is yet to confirm whether the Edition 1 will arrive Down Under, the CLS53, E53 Coupe and E53 Cabriolet are all expected to reach Australian showrooms by the end of the year.