A PERFORMANCE version of the CLE coupe is to be produced by Mercedes-AMG as the flagship for its new sporty model.

The CLE 53 will be powered by a mild-hybrid six-cylinder inline engine with twin turbos and come with all-wheel drive and rear-axle steering.

With 449bhp available the car has a 0 to 62mph acceleration time of 4.2 seconds and a top speed in excess of 155mph.

It is fitted with a bespoke AMG grille at the front while at the rear the CLE 53 has four exhausts protruding from the diffuser.

The interior is similar to that of the rest of the CLE range which sees a 12.9-inch instrument display as well as an 11.9-inch central display panel.

Transmission is a nine-speed auto box that has been set up by AMG and the car has an official best fuel return of 25.3mpg with emissions of 212 g/km.

The CLE 53 is due for release early in 2024 and prices can be expected to be beyond that of the £72,765 of the current range topper the CLE 450.