- The Mercedes-AMG CLE Coupe is about to get a V8 engine.
- A camouflaged prototype with wider wheel arches and a rear wing was seen on the Nürburgring.
- It will likely be the second automobile from the ultra-exclusive Mythos collection.
Mercedes-AMG is about to deal with a serious hole in its lineup by filling the void left by the discontinuation of the C63 and E63 Coupe fashions just a few years in the past. With the CLE changing the two-door C-Class and E-Class, it is sensible to deliver again the V8 as a step up from the inline-six “53” automobiles. New footage from CarSpyMedia on the Nürburgring exhibits the hardcore coupe doubtless testing with two further cylinders underneath the hood.
Despite the fact that the prototype is roofed in camouflage, there are clear indicators we’re coping with one thing extra intense than the CLE 53. It contains a redesigned entrance bumper with huge air intakes for further cooling, together with canards to enhance aerodynamics. The profile reveals flared fenders, a stiffer suspension, a lowered trip peak, and meaty tires. On the rear, the mounted wing instantly units the flagship model aside.
Mercedes-AMG has additionally revised the quad exhaust system, switching to its signature rectangular suggestions and changing the spherical finishers discovered on the 53-badged CLE Coupe. Whereas the prototype undoubtedly sounds prefer it has a V8, it might use a bit extra aggression. Then once more, EU emissions and noise rules could have taken their toll. Maybe it should sound higher in non-EU markets. On the identical time, it is a prototype, so it could not have all the ultimate elements in place.
As a matter of truth, the digital instrument cluster exhibits an S-Class graphic, clearly indicating this isn’t a production-ready automobile. Below the hood, count on a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with a rumored 646 horsepower, representing an infinite 203-hp enhance over the CLE 53.
Nevertheless, early studies recommended the top-tier CLE wouldn’t use a brawny V8. Mercedes-AMG had allegedly deliberate to put in a plug-in hybrid 2.0-liter engine from the ill-fated C63 earlier than altering course following the tremendous sedan’s lower-than-expected gross sales. Firm officers by no means confirmed this, and what in the end issues is that the manufacturing automobile will doubtless have twice as many cylinders.
The spied CLE will grow to be Mercedes’ second ultra-exclusive mannequin within the Mythos collection. It’s mentioned to be even rarer than the SL63-based PureSpeed, of which solely 250 models had been constructed. A current report from Automotive Information alleges manufacturing will likely be capped at simply 30 examples worldwide.
Hopefully, there are additionally plans for a “common” CLE 63 with out manufacturing limitations. If Mercedes-AMG intends to bridge the hole between the CLE 53 and the Mythos-spec automobile, a 63 model is unlikely to be as excessive because the prototype noticed on the Nordschleife. What we do know is that Affalterbach has an excellent crazier coupe within the works, with a GT Black Series basically shaping as much as be a race automobile with a license plate.
Motor1’s Take: Mercedes-AMG’s renewed dedication to the V8 is about to bear fruit, and we’re all for it. The Mythos CLE marks a return to type, choosing up the place the AMG 63 C-Class and E-Class Coupe left off. To the delight of traditionalists, there’s a robust likelihood it received’t be electrified.
Past the additional energy delivered solely by a V8, it could additionally shed weight. Mercedes-AMG might ditch the rear seats, because the take a look at automobile appeared to characteristic a roll cage as a substitute. A bit extra noise wouldn’t damage, however that’s one thing the aftermarket scene can rapidly tackle. Then once more, if the 30-unit manufacturing run proves correct, deep-pocketed homeowners could hesitate to change the automobile for concern of wounding its resale worth.
Supply:
CarSpyMedia / YouTube
