Highway cruisers travel 168 miles an hour, which seems a lot.
The Mercedes AMG CLS 53 model is part of the German brand’s new line of electrified performance vehicles. This video shows how the vehicle accelerates to 168 mph (270 km/h).
AMG’s 53 models have a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine that produces 429 horsepower (320 Kilowatts) as well as 384 pound-feet (521 Nms). The electric system is called EQ Boost by the company. It produces an additional 21 hp (16 kW), and 184 lb (250 Nm). This setup can also be used as an electric supercharger, by spinning the turbo to reduce lag. According to official specs, the CLS 53 can travel 60 miles per hour (96 km/h) in 4.4 seconds. The power is sent to the all-wheel drive system via a nine-speed dual clutch gearbox. It can also route 100 percent of its power to the rear if necessary.
Greg Fink, Motor1.com‘s first driver, praised the transmission. He wrote that the nine-speed automatic transmission’s willingness to drop down a gear at a moment’s notice makes passing slower moving traffic as easy as pressing the accelerator pedal to the floorboard, and then holding onto the three-spoke steering wheels.
Although the powertrain layout of the CLS 53 works well as a cruiser, it is also a good choice for corner carvers. The CLS 53 is able to maintain its poise and predictability in dynamic situations thanks to optional Pirelli summer tires mounted onto optional 20-inch wheels. Fink explained in his First Drive that pushing the car towards its lateral limits causes the nose to run wide.
The CLS 53 is equipped with an air suspension, which offers Comfort, Sport, or Sport+ modes for easier cruising. Driver assistance equipment available includes adaptive cruise control and steering assist.
The 2019 CLS 53 starts at $79,900 including destination. An example that is well-equipped can be six-figures.