It was rumouredfor quite some time and now it's official. AMG has a new powerplant and it comes with a 53 designation. The cars to receive it are the E-Class coupe and convertible, as well as the recently launched CLS. Let's check it out.

While it may come with an AMG badge and be all about performance, the new motors are actually hybrids. Let's get the numbers out: 320 kW and 520 Nm from a 3.0-litre turbocharged 6-cylinder in-line engine. The turbochargers featurean exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor, while the EQ Boost starter-alternator is capable of 16 kW and 250 Nm, which in-turn feeds the 48V onboard electrical system.The powerful engines are also efficient, with a claimed consumption figure of 8.4 L/100 km andcombined CO2 emissions 200 g/km. Performance is brisk, with the CLS 53 4Matic+ capable of 4.5 seconds to 100 kph and with the AMG Drivers package, it'll rocket onto a top speed of 270 kph.

"With the new 53-series models, we are extending our portfolio in a first step towards a hybridised future with a leading-edge combination of sporty design, performance and efficiency. The basis for this is a contemporary drive configuration in the form of a six-cylinder in-line engine with electric auxiliary compressor, EQ Boost starter-alternator and 48 V onboard electrical system. The very spontaneous response to accelerator pedal input, the precision and the design focusing on driving dynamics are hallmark features of AMG As such we are providing an additional lifestyle-oriented customer group with a further attractive offering from Affalterbach", explains Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The new AMG 53 range comprises the CLS 53, E53 coupe and E53 convertible. All vehicles come with 4Matic+ all-wheel drive as well as the AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission.

Watch the new Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 in action

Further Reading

All-New Mercedes-Benz CLS Breaks Cover

Spy Shots: Mercedes-AMG's 4-door GT (GT4)

Driven: (2014) Mercedes-Benz CLS

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S (2014) Review

Drag Race: Mercedes A45 AMG vs CLS 63 AMG S

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