While getting ready for a test drive might take half a minute or so, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 can catapult the driver from 0-100 kilometres per hour in just 4.2sec.
Two coupés recently launched by Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) -- Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé and CLE 300 4MATIC Coupé AMG Dynamic -- look set to thrill local sports car fanatics by providing them with exciting performance and the level of comfort you come to expect from the luxury brand, supported by an ultramodern artificial intelligence (AI)-driven operating system.
Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé.
"The two models feature advanced driving systems never before seen in locally-assembled two-door sports cars," says Martin Schwenk, president and chief executive officer of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand).
CLE 53 4MATIC+ COUPÉ
This high-performance model -- priced at 5.25 million baht -- features the most extensive AMG equipment ever offered in a locally-assembled model, providing exceptional levels of performance, Mr Martin Schwenk noted.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission delivers a rated output of 449 horsepower and 560Nm of rated torque.
It is also the first model in Thailand to come with the AMG Driver's package, unlocking a top speed of up to 270 km/h.
This sporty model also includes AMG Performance 4MATIC+, the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package, AMG dynamic engine mounts and AMG real performance sound.
The vehicle shares the same engine as the CLS 53 and GLE 53 in the form of a 3.0 litre petrol engine, six cylinder in-line with a turbocharger and intercooler, coupled with a 48V Mild-Hybrid system. It utilises a 4MATIC+ drivetrain, providing fully variable power distribution to the front and rear axles.
The exterior design captures plenty of attention on the road thanks to the AMG Night Package, enhancing the sporty and agile character typical of an AMG exterior.
For the first time in a locally assembled vehicle, it features a power dome with a central air outlet for venting air from the engine bay. The DIGITAL LIGHT headlights work in conjunction with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, providing a safe, worry-free driving experience.
The AMG high-performance braking system includes four-piston fixed calipers in the front and single-piston calipers in the rear, offering precise control in all driving conditions.
The car also features Active rear-axle steering, allowing the rear wheels to turn up to 2.5 degrees at speeds below 100 km/h and up to 0.7 degrees at higher speeds.
The AMG real performance sound system replicates authentic engine and turbo sounds which is the best innovation from Mercedes-AMG, offering adjustable exhaust tones that range from balanced to powerful through the central console, fully immersing the driver in a sporty atmosphere.
CLE 300 4MATIC COUPÉ
This model offers a perfect blend of sportiness, luxury and modernity, embodying the style of the new automotive era.
The two-door, four-seater sports car, which is in the same segment as the E-Class Coupé, comes with a price tag of 3.95 million baht, said Mr Martin Schwenk.
It features a 2.0 litre petrol engine, four cylinder in-line with a turbocharger and intercooler, coupled with a 48V Mild Hybrid system and 4MATIC drivetrain, distributing 45% to the front and 55% to the rear axles.
The 9G-TRONIC transmission delivers a rated output of 258 horsepower and 400Nm of rated torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.2sec, with a top speed of 250 km/h.
The vehicle is packed with numerous safety features, including Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC Plus, which allows the driver to set the desired distance from the vehicle ahead and adjust the speed accordingly, a parking package with a 360-degree camera for automatic parking assistance, Active Brake Assist for automatic braking, Blind Spot Assist for blind spot monitoring, ATTENTION ASSIST to detect driver's fatigue, PRE-SAFE® system for pre-collision protection, ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD function and Hill-Start Assist, and ABS (Anti-lock braking system).
ASSISTED BY AI
Both variants of the new CLE Coupé are installed with the latest MBUX Gen20x infotainment system, with AI support, marking the second model in the Thai market after the new E-Class to feature this system.
This advanced operating system stands out with its AI-generated routines mode, learning and storing driver preferences to provide a more convenient driving experience.
The system also features enlarged icons and colour differentiation to enhance usability according to Euro NCAP safety standards. Additionally, the system supports voice commands, ensuring comfort in every aspect of driving.
REMARKABLE HISTORY
For more than four decades, Mercedes-Benz has successfully marketed two-door sports cars, beginning with the classic Mercedes-Benz Coupé model, known as the E-Class Coupé (C123), said Mr Martin Schwenk.
This model was the first Mercedes-Benz Coupé to enter Thailand, followed by the Mercedes-Benz CE (C124) before transitioning to the modern luxury era with the introduction of the CLK, which was marketed for two generations.
The name E-Class Coupé was then revived with the C207, leading to the most recent model marketed in Thailand -- the C238.
Throughout history, the Mercedes-Benz Coupé lineup has been well-received and highly successful both in Thailand and globally.
Last year, the Stuttgart-based Mercedes-Benz AG, the parent firm of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand), sold around 2 million passenger cars and 447,800 vans.