Mercedes AMG to Launch New “53” Series Lineup

Daimler AG’s Mercedes-Benz unit will launch a new designation for its AMG performance sub-brand next year with the Mercedes-AMG CLS53.

The “53” nomenclature will eventually spread to other Mercedes-AMG models, essentially replacing current “43”-badged vehicles, according to several media reports. Other vehicles likely to get the AMG 53 treatment are performance variants of the E-Class full-size car and possibly the GLE sedan and coupe.

The redesigned CLS, a sedan with coupe-like styling, will ride on Mercedes’ new Modular Rear Architecture when it bows next summer. The 2019 edition will be longer and lighter than the current model.

Due later next year, the CLS53 version will be powered by Mercedes new twin-turbo M256 inline 6-cylinder engine that is expected to generate 430 hp. A 48-volt mild-hybrid with an integrated starter-generator and auxiliary compressor will provide an additional 70 hp for a total of 500 hp, the reports indicate.