[DoubleDave]

MB lost me as a potential customer after the POS C63 AMG I bought back in 2019. Car was garbage and customer service matched.

[mieh100]

I was driving on a back road and a e53 AMG came in front of me and was really disappointed in terms of looks and sportiness.

[kgelfen360]

I personally just don’t like these MB interiors. It so busy IMO. Like vents and so many buttons on steering wheel and screens everywhere.
Obviously I am BMW fan boy but I just like how much cleaner BMW design is.
The front dash display on MB looks very out of place. I know many here bash idrive 8 but this thing is even worse to me.
At least it’s inline 6. I hate what they are doing with 2.0liter and batteries.

[Forzanerazzurri]

Why do all the modern MBs look so droopy, as if they were left to melt in the sun too long?

[Bimmerfun82]

Originally Posted by Forzanerazzurri

Why do all the modern MBs look so droopy, as if they were left to melt in the sun too long?

MB prioritized low drag coefficient over any sensible style or decent engineering of efficiency. Even the wheels have suffered from this misguided approach

[Bimmerfun82]

Originally Posted by kgelfen360

I personally just don’t like these MB interiors. It so busy IMO. Like vents and so many buttons on steering wheel and screens everywhere.
Obviously I am BMW fan boy but I just like how much cleaner BMW design is.
The front dash display on MB looks very out of place. I know many here bash idrive 8 but this thing is even worse to me.
At least it’s inline 6. I hate what they are doing with 2.0liter and batteries.

Agree. The new CLE appears to have some seriously improved seats but the two screens is a bit much.

[specced]

I really like the GT line, especially the GT sedan's I think they are some of the best looking cars. I never really sprang for one because the community isn't really there, pretty limited aftermarket support, and less places that work on them aside from dealerships.

[Bimmerfun82]

Developing story

https://www.mbworld.org/how-tos/slid...-cle-63-976486

Customer dissatisfaction with the current lineup, evidenced by decreased sales of the latest C 63 and E 63, is a driving force behind AMG's potential shift. Dealers have reportedly expressed concerns that customers may be perplexed by the idea of a four-cylinder CLE63 alongside its six-cylinder counterpart, the CLE53. This feedback suggests a disconnect between consumer expectations and the hybrid direction AMG had pursued.

According to Autocar, senior officials within Mercedes-Benz indicate that the AMG CLE 63 could adopt a twin-turbo V8 powerplant. This V8, utilizing mild hybrid technology, is expected to produce 577 horsepower, marking a departure from the current four-cylinder hybrid setup with 671 horsepower. The move aligns with AMG's aim to position the CLE63 as a direct competitor to rivals like the BMW M4.

[McLaren720s]

The US build configurator is live on MBs website.

Just built one out of curiosity with all the options I’d consider “must have” for me and it came out to exactly $90k.

That’s $20k over a fully loaded M2 with which it directly competes.

[Bimmerfun82]

Originally Posted by McLaren720s

The US build configurator is live on MBs website.

Just built one out of curiosity with all the options I’d consider “must have” for me and it came out to exactly $90k.

That’s $20k over a fully loaded M2 with which it directly competes.

I thought it competed with the M440i?

Thanks for the heads up

[McLaren720s]

Originally Posted by Bimmerfun82

I thought it competed with the M440i?

No way this car is worth $90k. That’s M4 comp x money.

Thanks for the heads up

It’s possible it competes with the M440i. But this will be for sure faster and better equipped than the 440i (also way more expensive)
I would think this competes with the M2 and the invevitable CLE63 will go up against the M4 (and weight probably around 4300 lbs)

[Bimmerfun82]

Originally Posted by McLaren720s

It’s possible it competes with the M440i. But this will be for sure faster and better equipped than the 440i (also way more expensive)
I would think this competes with the M2 and the invevitable CLE63 will go up against the M4 (and weight probably around 4300 lbs)

The dimensions length and wheelbase are almost identical with the M440i x drive. The AMG would feel faster at higher speeds, and it’s wider and heavier.

My thinking is AMG wanted to go after the M4 with this and the 63 will be at $110-120k competing with the CS.

[Bimmerfun82]

Hi all, so I decided to buy one of these CLE53 AMG’s. I’ve had 2 G80s, but take my opinions with a grain of salt. First impressions after 5 days with the car:

1) the DNA of AMG, for better and worse. And comparing the M3 to the AMG, it is the same old-school difference. The M feels more eager to rev, the chassis is more dialed in, and the interior and overall package very sporty and focused on a singular purpose. The AMG feels more luxurious and pulls like a freight train.

2) M feels like it belongs on a track and enjoyment comes by pushing it. AMG feels like it’s accomplishing its purpose at any speed.

3) rear wheel steer is a game changer. I still believe the M3 could benefit from this. Understand there are downsides to that approach like challenges with drifting, etc. wish it were an option based on driving style like the 911. M3 wheelbase is long enough to warrant it.

4) efficiency. I will explore this further but I’m seeing over 30 on the highway and almost 20 around town.

5) heavier. By a lot. Once I hit the canyons I’ll let you know what I think. Initially it feels like the RWS helps offset partially.

6) HUD and gauge cluster is better in the Merc.

7) transmission and gearing is better imo than the ZF8 in the comp.

8) induction and exhaust sound is great. I don’t think it’s fake but who knows. Need to look into this.

9) 20” all around with Michelin ps5 rubber. 295 width in the back.

This AMG has a few things that are really nice and would compel me to have both an M and the AMG in my garage:

1) purposely designed coupe - with a smaller windshield and an overall driving position and dimensions that makes it feel more of a compelling package. Huge moonroof and large back seat. I didn’t feel the same about the M4. M3 feels a lot bigger.

2) luxury. Ambient lighting and massaging seats and sound system and user inputs and screens, HUD, look/feek etc. love being able to use old school analog gauges.

3) the steering wheel dials are user friendly. Much better than filtering the through screens and messing with the M1 and M2 buttons and settings.

4) front end design including hood vent and overall look of the AMG is stellar

5) power delivery. The M is maniacal. But on the base M and on the pre LCI comp the acceleration feels linear. The AMG feels more nuanced and some might say choppy with mild hybrid and 9 speed TCT (haven’t read the technicals on it but seems more interesting than the ZF8). But it’s exciting in a way and a learning curve.

6) interior quality is much improved over the last few gens.

7) steering and brake feel.

I believe the M is the better sports sedan/coupe, but if you want something a bit more luxurious and comfortable and with more traditional looks this is a great option.

[McLaren720s]

Congrats! It’s an incredibly good looking car and I absolutely love the interior as well.

I would have opted for this instead of the M4 if it wasn’t for the massive performance delta between the two and terrible Mercedes lease rates.

[Bimmerfun82]

Originally Posted by McLaren720s

Congrats! It’s an incredibly good looking car and I absolutely love the interior as well.

I would have opted for this instead of the M4 if it wasn’t for the massive performance delta between the two and terrible Mercedes lease rates.

Thanks! The lease rates are horrendous. Financing too. Over 7%. $2000/mo lease. That’s $500 more than my iXm60 with more $ down.

[Bimmerfun82]

Enjoyed the sounds of my buddy’s Scud today. Not past break-in, so didn’t exceed 4500 rpm or 80% throttle but this car is extremely fun to drive. The AWD is seamless, rear wheel steer is fantastic … and sound, throttle response, brake feel and steering feel is good. Transmission is quick and intuitive with snappy shifts and intelligent timing of auto shifting. Suspension is dialed in properly in each setting. Borderline harsh across uneven pavement even in comfort. Some wrestling of the car required given the weight - as expected - but uphill on the twisties and in sweepers this car is easy to drive fast. Lots of grip and tires communicate. Stable and comfortable as well. Good sight lines. Over 20 mpg. Plus a massage while driving is a huge plus. HUD tach is lovely, as are the analog gauges.

Compared to the comp X G80, I prefer this if only for the rear wheel steer and less intrusive AWD but also for the lovely gauges and HUD. This car feels more connected to me. The M3 is faster but a bit numb. Both great cars though for sure.

[Burrcold]

Originally Posted by Bimmerfun82

Enjoyed the sounds of my buddy’s Scud today. Not past break-in, so didn’t exceed 4500 rpm or 80% throttle but this car is extremely fun to drive. The AWD is seamless, rear wheel steer is fantastic … and sound, throttle response, brake feel and steering feel is good. Transmission is quick and intuitive with snappy shifts and intelligent timing of auto shifting. Suspension is dialed in properly in each setting. Borderline harsh across uneven pavement even in comfort. Some wrestling of the car required given the weight - as expected - but uphill on the twisties and in sweepers this car is easy to drive fast. Lots of grip and tires communicate. Stable and comfortable as well. Good sight lines. Over 20 mpg. Plus a massage while driving is a huge plus. HUD tach is lovely, as are the analog gauges.

Compared to the comp X G80, I prefer this if only for the rear wheel steer and less intrusive AWD but also for the lovely gauges and HUD. This car feels more connected to me. The M3 is faster but a bit numb. Both great cars though for sure.

Nice, congrats!

[McLaren720s]

Originally Posted by Bimmerfun82

Enjoyed the sounds of my buddy’s Scud today. Not past break-in, so didn’t exceed 4500 rpm or 80% throttle but this car is extremely fun to drive. The AWD is seamless, rear wheel steer is fantastic … and sound, throttle response, brake feel and steering feel is good. Transmission is quick and intuitive with snappy shifts and intelligent timing of auto shifting. Suspension is dialed in properly in each setting. Borderline harsh across uneven pavement even in comfort. Some wrestling of the car required given the weight - as expected - but uphill on the twisties and in sweepers this car is easy to drive fast. Lots of grip and tires communicate. Stable and comfortable as well. Good sight lines. Over 20 mpg. Plus a massage while driving is a huge plus. HUD tach is lovely, as are the analog gauges.

Compared to the comp X G80, I prefer this if only for the rear wheel steer and less intrusive AWD but also for the lovely gauges and HUD. This car feels more connected to me. The M3 is faster but a bit numb. Both great cars though for sure.

I’m not surprised it felt more connected. I had the lasted generation CLA 45 AMG for 6 months and that was also much more fun to drive than my M4. You could feel the engine rev up more, the steering had more feedback, brakes felt amazing without the stupid brake by wire, DCT and chassis was more connected although a bit too harsh.

I love my M4 but BMW definitely lost the “ultimate driving machine” factor.
It’s pretty “ultimate” in terms of performance though as there isn’t that much in the segment that can beat it

[Bimmerfun82]

Originally Posted by McLaren720s

I’m not surprised it felt more connected. I had the lasted generation CLA 45 AMG for 6 months and that was also much more fun to drive than my M4. You could feel the engine rev up more, the steering had more feedback, brakes felt amazing without the stupid brake by wire, DCT and chassis was more connected although a bit too harsh.

I love my M4 but BMW definitely lost the “ultimate driving machine” factor.
It’s pretty “ultimate” in terms of performance though as there isn’t that much in the segment that can beat it

Spot on. In the G8x you drive by the seat of your pants - the chassis communicates - which requires a bit more thought and attention. The Merc is more immersive and comes more natural. If - and this is a big if- the 63 has a V8, this community of M4 owners will have a decision to make. Would be a monster! There’s a lot of excitement and indicators in the MB groups….. it would be hard to imagine they’d go 6 in the 53 and 4 in the 63. We’ll see.

[Tyga11]

Originally Posted by Bimmerfun82

After having owned a G80cx, I’m intrigued by this new AMG CLE53

It seems like a return to form for AMG even without the V8. Wizardry with the TCT transmission, AWD/RWD continuous optimizations in real time, 443 hp mild hybrid I-6 with overboost on torque to match the hp figure (lb-ft), and RWS which I’ve argued the G80 needs. Also the stance and look is aggressive.

Obviously the comp x has it bested in power and acceleration and likely weight etc. But Merc’s strong suit is in its transmission and straight line speed, and perhaps a 63 version will follow in a few years.

https://media.mbusa.com/releases/rel...-amg-cle-coupe

Did you lease or finance?

[Bimmerfun82]

Originally Posted by Tyga11

Did you lease or finance?

Neither

[DFW_M]

Originally Posted by Bimmerfun82

Neither