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Welcome back to RBR! Today, I’m taking the new 2024 #AMG #CLE53 out for a drive here in the UK, and I have to say—I have some strong feelings about this car. Imagine getting behind the wheel of a car that, on paper, is the perfect entry-level #MercedesAMG—a sleek design, an inline 6 engine instead of a horrid 4-cylinder—but quickly realising it’s not living up to expectations. After my first 100 yards, I knew this car was going to disappoint many of you, and it all comes down to the current state of the UK car market, and a small lacking option. :(

The CLE 53: A beacon of hope?

Let’s start with the basics: the AMG CLE 53 is designed to be a crowd-pleaser for AMG fans. It has a beautiful, unique wide-body design reminiscent of AMG legends like the C63 coupe, AMG GT R, and C Black Series. And unlike other AMG models like the 43 series or even the new C63, the CLE 53 has a proper inline 6-cylinder engine—a big win for enthusiasts like us. On my first drive in Spain, it felt like a revelation, easily one of the best entry-level AMGs to date.
So what’s the problem? Well, if you’re thinking of buying this car in the UK, you’re in for some surprises that may not sit well with you.

UK Spec: Where’s the AMG Real Performance Sound?

One of the most crucial features of modern AMG cars is a little known standard option called: AMG Real Performance Sound, designed to give the interior a more emotional, engine-focused experience via a microphone in the exhaust system. However, AMG has decided not to include it in the UK launch spec, stating it could be added in the future "if there's enough demand." That’s right—for an additional £654.50, the rest of the world gets the option to hear their engine roar, while UK customers are left without.

As someone who knows AMG fans, this feels like a massive oversight. It’s like MBUK doesn’t understand their AMG customers at all. And to top it off, this is an £83,000 car. Even if you spec it with the AMG Dynamics Package Plus, which is the top dog version that can hit £90,000—you still don’t get the AMG Real Performance Sound. Not a single AMG in this level including the 43 cars lack this feature, and it’s a frustrating point for UK buyers.

Limited Choices for UK Buyers

This isn’t the only issue with buying a new AMG in the UK; it highlights a much bigger problem with how these cars are sold here. Unlike other markets where you can build your car as you like, UK buyers are limited to pre-set specs—think of it like picking an iPhone model. In most cases, you’ll have a few package options and a limited palette of colours to choose from. Don’t like the black and red interior? Tough. Want to pick your wheels? Not your choice, either.

The reason given is to "keep the costs down," but that doesn't make sense when you’re looking at an £83k car, which replaces the old E53 was around £63k, and even the C43 came in at around £50k. It’s not just the CLE either; look at the new AMG GT, starting at £180k—that’s £60k more than the previous GT S and even more than the limited-run GT R Pro from a few years back.

Is Anyone Buying New AMGs in the UK?

Something needs to change, because right now, I don’t know anyone who’s buying new AMGs in the UK—including myself. And if Mr AMG doesn’t know anyone, that’s saying something about the bigger issues at play.

Watch the full video for my detailed breakdown on why the 2024 AMG CLE 53 in the UK is a big disappointment, and what needs to change in the UK buying experience.

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CREDITS:
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Sound effects obtained from www.zapsplat.comDj Quads - Game Time NBA2k17

Driving disclaimer:All driving shots were filmed by professionals in safe environments or on closed roads. Please drive safely!