2020 Mercedes-AMG CLS53

Overview

If you're wanting a higher-performance version of the Mercedes-Benz CLS, the 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLS53 is the place to start. Tuned by the AMG division, the all-wheel-drive CLS53 features a turbocharged and electrically supercharged version of Benz's latest inline-six-cylinder engine with an upgraded suspension and steering to go with the extra power. Of course, it's much the same package you'd get with the E53 sedan—albeit in a less stodgy four-door-coupe body style. There's no V-8 this time, as that is now reserved for the more elite and vastly more expensive GT63. Detractors will point out that this CLS isn't as distinctive as earlier versions, and they won't be wrong. Nevertheless, the 2020 CLS53 is attractive, quick, and a worthy rival to the Audi S7, BMW 8-series Gran Coupe, and Porsche Panamera.

What's New for 2020?

Changes are few on the 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLS53. Graphite Grey is new to the exterior color palette, and all-weather floor mats are now optional.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2020 CLS53 comes with basics such as keyless access, a power-closing trunklid, power-adjustable front seats with heating and memory, and dual-zone climate control. At this price, you might also expect leather seating, but the CLS comes standard with vinyl and simulated suede upholstery. Of course, there are many different choices of leather on the options list, along with an assortment of wood, metal, and carbon-fiber trim. At a minimum, we'd add the Lighting package to get adaptive headlights, the optional three-zone climate control to reduce strife in the back seat, and the Driver Assistance package to get all the available safety aids. Additionally, the optional AMG performance exhaust is a must-have. When equipped, the CLS53 emits superb pops and crackles that don't sound artificial.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Every 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLS53 comes with a turbocharged and electrically supercharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt hybrid-assist system called EQ Boost, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. The engine is rated at 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, with EQ Boost adding up to 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. In our testing, the CLS53 hit 60 mph in 4.0 seconds and covered the quarter-mile in 12.5 seconds at 111 mph. The inline-six is characterful and eager to rev, and the nine-speed delivers quick upshifts and satisfying downshifts. The Mercedes CLS53 is equipped with air suspension and adaptive dampers as standard. This setup provides surefooted handling and an acceptable ride on most roads, but the CLS loses composure over bumps and can feel brittle over rough pavement. The similar E53 has slightly softer tuning and offers a more compliant ride as a result. We have no complaints about the CLS53's electrically assisted steering, though. It's direct and surprisingly rich in feedback.

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Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Fuel mileage is impressive for a luxury performance sedan. The EPA rates the Mercedes-AMG CLS53 at 21/27 mpg city/highway ratings. The CLS53 returned 30 mpg on our 75-mph, 200-mile highway fuel-economy test.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Mercedes has a knack for integrating the latest technology into its interiors while preserving the old-world opulence that everyone expects in a Mercedes-AMG luxury sedan. So it is with the CLS53. All the major displays are digital, including the instrument panel, which measures 12.0 inches, yet there's a warmth to this four-door coupe's cockpit that competitors can't quite match. In the rear, the CLS53 feels more like a sedan than a coupe, with three-across seating and a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat. The sloped roofline reduces headroom for adults, however. Trunk capacity is only 12.0 cubic feet.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLS53 features a standard 12.0-inch infotainment interface with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, navigation, three USB ports, and an SD card reader. Options include a head-up display and an upgraded Burmester 3D surround-sound audio system (in place of the standard surround-sound system). You might want to consider the optional AMG Drive Unit, which provides quick-access buttons on the steering wheel to adjust the car's many drivetrain and chassis settings. (Unfortunately, this feature is not available in combination with the optional heated steering wheel.) Another add-on is AMG Track Pace, which lets you store performance data from your vehicle in the infotainment interface when you're driving on a road course.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has tested the Mercedes CLS-class. Every CLS53 comes equipped with basic safety features such as a forward-collision system and blind-spot monitoring. Additional driver-assistance aids are included in the optional Driver Assistance package, among them Level 2 semi-autonomous features such as adaptive cruise control with automatic resume capability in stop-and-go traffic and lane-change assist (which can steer into the next lane for you). Key safety features include:

• Standard forward-collision system with automated braking
• Standard blind-spot monitoring and available blind-spot assist
• Available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode
• Available lane-keeping assist

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Mercedes-AMG's limited and powertrain warranties are on par with rivals in this price range. Instead of complimentary scheduled maintenance, however, there are prepaid maintenance plans available at extra cost when you purchase your 2020 CLS53.

• Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance