MERCEDES has started the year by introducing a new range of luxury, high-performance AMG models.

The AMG trio has a new designation, the 53-series models of the CLS four-door coupe, the E-Class Coupe and the E-Class Cabriolet.

At their heart lies a new, electrified 3.0-litre engine featuring twin-turbocharging by means of an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor.

The sixâcylinder in-line engine generates 435bhp and delivers maximum torque of 520Nm. Its boost starter-alternator momentarily provides an additional 16kW (21.5bhp) of output plus 250Nm of torque and also feeds the 48-volt on-board electrical system.

The new engine setup delivers top-of-the-range performance and intelligent electrification. The boost starter-alternator combines a starter motor and alternator in a powerful electric motor and is fitted between the engine and transmission.

This innovation, as well as the charging via an electric auxiliary compressor and an exhaust gas turbocharger enhances the AMG performance and driving dynamics, while also reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

The CLS53 4MATIC+ accelerates from zero to 62mph in just 4.5 seconds, and with the driver's package achieves a top speed of 168mph. The combined fuel consumption is rated at 33.6mpg with emissions of 200g/km.

Fuel figures are the same for the E 53 Coupe while the Cabriolet is a fraction thirstier with a CO2 figure of 201g/km.

Other technical highlights include an AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission and the fully variable AMGPerformance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system.

On the design front the three new models come with distinguishing features which are common to the new 53-series cars comprising twin-blade radiator grille, the front apron in a wing design, AMG-side sill panels, a rear apron with diffuser insert plus round exhaust tailpipe trim elements in high-gloss chrome.

The models also come with a broader track width offering better cornering thanks to the wheels being positioned further out.

As standard the CLS 53 comes with 19-inch aerodynamically optimised light-alloy wheels, and as an option 20-inch wheels can be ordered.

Active braking assist, lane keeping assist, and driver fatigue monitors are other standard features while the occupant protection system now includes Pre-Safe Sound which prepares human hearing for the anticipated accident noise when there is a risk of a collision.

Prices for the new AMGs have yet to be confirmed.