We Took the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC For a Spin on a Formula 1 Track. Here's Our Verdict

Mercedes India recently launched the CLE 53 AMG in India at Rs. 1.35 crore (ex-showroom) just a few weeks ago. While road reviews are yet to begin, we took it for a spin on the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida, all thanks to AMG Experiences. How did it feel driving the latest 450 hp coupe from Mercedes-AMG around India’s only Formula One race track? Here's our detailed review.

The Engine

First things first, the CLE might be a new product, but we’re quite familiar with this M256 engine. It’s the same 3.0-litre inline-six engine found in several previous (and current) Mercedes offerings. This powerplant produces 450 hp and 560 Nm of peak torque and is paired with a 48V mild hybrid motor that adds an additional 21 hp and 200 Nm of torque boost when needed to eliminate turbo lag. It also recovers brake energy to recharge the lithium-ion battery. We made sure to put this extra power to use during our drive.

Car Modes

The gearbox is a 9-speed DCT (dual-clutch transmission), offering variable gear shifting depending on the mode chosen. For our drive, we kept the car in Sport mode during the warm-up lap, where gear shifts were crisp and almost imperceptible. Switching to Sport+ means the gears hold longer, giving the full rev range to play with.

We mostly let the car do its thing, but switched to manual mode and shifted at around 5,500 rpm, letting us enjoy the howl of the AMG Performance Exhaust. If you’re in the mood, aggressive downshifts also emit a few pops and bangs, turning petrol into aural entertainment.

We weren’t setting any record lap times, but we maintained a brisk pace and even touched over 225 kmph on the back straight of the BIC. Of course, the car is capable of 250 kmph, and this one has the AMG Driver’s Package, raising the top speed to 270 km/h, provided you have a long enough straight road to play on.

After reaching those speeds, a deep corner requires quick braking, and since we weren’t pushing too hard, the CLE 53’s massive disc brakes made easy work of dropping the anchor. Driving the first lap in Sport mode, then switching to Sport+, we noticed the suspension stiffen up, making the chassis even more taut and composed around the bends that were designed for tarmac-ripping Formula One cars. The rear-wheel steering, offering 2.5 degrees of play above 100 kmph for added stability, also helped enhance the handling.

The grippy Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S tyres on the 20-inch AMG Y-spoke rims run a staggered setup. The front tyre measures 265/30, while the rear is a 295/30 section unit. They are extremely sticky and built for track performance but will deliver a very stiff ride on public roads. If you want to speed up tyre wear (and widen your grin), the CLE 53 AMG even has a dedicated Drift Mode. We didn't get to experience it but from our past experiences, its a fun party trick to have when you're showing off to your friends or your better half.

The whole experience lasted around 15 minutes, but stepping out of the low driver’s seat, I couldn’t help but realise how easy it is to enjoy a hot track day without breaking a sweat. The car is equipped with all the latest electronic nannies to keep you safe while cocooning you in a luxurious cabin, seated on ventilated AMG bucket seats, while my co-passenger enjoyed his own climate settings thanks to the dual-zone climate control.

RR Verdict: As far as AMG experiences go, the CLE 53 does offer an authentic one on the track. However, if you’ve driven cars in this segment before, it might not feel mind-blowing. At Rs. 1.03 crore (ex-showroom India), a BMW M2 offers better specs and a more engaging drive. Step up slightly, and the BMW M4 Competition provides an even wilder ride. Buying the CLE 53 is mostly a matter of matching performance with brand loyalty and great looks.