2019 Mercedes AMG CLS53 Review – Video

The AMG 53 line takes the new 3.0-liter inline-six that debuts on the CLS450 in Europe, but breathes on it some more. Originally this engine made 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, but when AMG is through with it, it’s pumping out 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The like the non-AMG version, the engine is turbocharged and has an electric auxiliary compressor that eliminates turbo lag. And its mild hybrid system’s EQ Boost starter-alternator can throw in an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque momentarily. That unit is fitted between the engine and AMG’s Speedshift nine-speed transmission, all of which delivers power to the car’s Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel drive.

You can tell an AMG 53 by its twin-blade silver-chrome grille, which was previously reserved for AMG V8s. Behind the blades is black lattice. The 53 also has an A-wing front bumper with silver-chrome front splitter and side curtains to reduce drag and direct airflow. Air intakes feature horizontal silver-chrome fins, and the car wears AMG side sills. Around back, there’s a diffuser and chrome exhaust tips, and the taillights emphasize the car’s increased width. The body-color deck lip can be optioned in carbon fiber. A CLS 53 has 19-inch aero wheels standard, and 20-inchers are an option.

Mercedes says the AMG CLS 53 accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds.