2019 Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 Coupe

Three generations of an inspiring car
By Durhl Caussey
Durhl Caussey
Durhl Caussey
December 6, 2019Updated: December 6, 2019

The AMG-enhanced 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine with EQ Boost produces 420 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 384 lb.-ft. of torque in the band of 1,800-5,800 rpm.

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AMG-enhanced turbo inline-six. (Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz)

AMG SpeedShift TCT 9-speed transmission helps motivating the vehicle from 0 to 60 in just in 4.4 seconds. Fuel economy is 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for a combined 23-mpg.

In Eco mode, auto start/stop aggressively tries to earns you extra mileage, while air suspension keeps maintains comfort and control. Then there is the rear spoiler that adds to the rich looks and full sound.

Multi-color ambient lighting bathes the interior in a relaxing glow and dual-zone automatic climate control provides great comfort. Keyless Start helps you in and out quickly and easily.

The 12.3-inch wide screen digital instrument display and 12.3-inch central display provide essential information and controls. The infotainment system with navigation supports Bluetooth connectivity plus both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. SiriusXM Satellite Radio supplies plenty of audio entertainment material through the Burnmaster Surround Sound System.

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The interior with dual 12.3″ screens dominating the dash. (Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz)

There are up to eight choices in cabin trim, including gloss and matte versions of wood, metal weave, and carbon fiber. My Mercedes Coupe was painted Obsidian Black with a Macchiato Beige/Magna Grey Nappa Leather. All this beauty was trimmed in Metal Wave. Nineteen-inch AMG twin three-spoke wheels with black accent rounded out the exterior ensemble.

There are absolutely too many standard features to discuss, but some must be pointed out. Anti-theft alarm system secures your valuable vehicle as the Advanced Airbag System softens the impact in case of a crash.

The anti-lock braking system, Brake Assist and electronic stability system all work together to maintain control of the vehicle in urgent situations. Rear View Camera and Blind Spot Assist provide extra eyes to help curtailing the possibility of a wreck.

Illumination is handled by a full suite of LED lighting, including daytime running lights, headlamps, taillights, plus interior lighting. No matter how busy or crowded it is outside, passengers in this athletic Mercedes-AMG coupe are enclosed in a bubble of luxury and comfort, while engaging in a spirited drive.

The AMG CLS 53 stands strong; its volume projects a strong presence with a wheelbase of 115.7 inches within its overall length of 199.1 inches. This presence also tips the scale at 4,447 pounds.

The overall dimensions provide a headroom of 36.9 inches, legroom of 41.9 inches, and a shoulder room of 57.8 inches for the front occupants. Cargo storage space is an abundant 11.9 cubic feet.

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A distinct rear design. (Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz)

The interaction through a high-tech package of panoramic display, swipe-enabled touch controls, and voice commands have an almost human nature. The CLS layers modern advancements on traditional comfort and elegance. These traditional ergonomics are there when I seek familiar, relaxed comfort, but at the same time modern tech are also available when I seek to explore or become more tech savvy.

The MSRP for this fine sedan is $79,900. While I have dealt with mostly standard features in the column, you still have numerous options you can add to your CLS.

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].