Mercedes-AMG has once again been spied testing a new high-performance coupe, likely the CLE 63, this time with minimal camouflage.
Set to replace both the existing C-Class coupe and convertible and E-Class coupe and convertible line-ups, the new CLE range will be offered with both a fixed roof and drop top.
A hotted up performance model will top the range, picking up from where the C63 AMG coupe left off.
What’s believed to be the CLE 63 has previously been spotted with a charging port, indicating the presence of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain sourced from the C63.
However, signs of PHEV power are absent on the version spied most recently, with no obvious charging port or hybrid stickers were spotted on the prototype.
It’s unlikely Mercedes-AMG will switch back to V8 power following its publicly criticised move towards four-cylinder PHEVs.
Mercedes-Benz has staunchly denied that the brand will revert back to eight cylinders for new performance models, though this latest batch of images adds fuel to rumours that the CLE 63 will be sold with an updated version of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that powered the C63 and C63 S up until 2021.
The CLE 53 understudy is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine, presenting an awkward situation if Mercedes-AMG produces its flagship grade with less cylinders.
The current AMG C 63 uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder which produces 350kW and 545Nm, which is mated to a 150kW/320Nm electric motor and a 6.1kWh battery, with total system outputs swelling to 500kW and 1020Nm.
Those outputs dwarf those of the previous generation V8 C63, although the PHEV is 392kg heavier.
Looking beyond the powertrain, with camouflage wrapping partially stripped away the differences between other CLE variants and this flagship are more apparent.
The front bumper is unique to this car, and it gives the impression of being wider than the CLE 53.
Squared-off quad exhaust outlets sit flush with the rear bumper, a styling cue seen on other current AMG 63 models.
Like CLK models of the late 1990s and 2000s, the CLE will combine two-door C-Class and E-Class models under a single nameplate.
In 2017, Mercedes-Benz returned the coupe and convertible to its E-Class line-up, which it sold concurrently with the C-Class coupe and convertible.
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