Automotive
Mercedes-Benz is no stranger to turning heads, but its latest effort— the 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLE MANUFAKTUR Edition —takes visual drama to another level. Built on the sleek CLE 53 coupe and cabriolet platforms, this limited-run model doesn’t dial up performance so much as it dials up presence, pairing AMG’s mid-level inline-six with design cues loud enough to shout across a parking lot.
Let’s be clear—this isn’t your typical AMG hellraiser with fire-breathing V8 theatrics. Instead, the MANUFAKTUR Edition builds on the already-potent CLE 53, which comes with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six delivering 443 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. That’s more than enough for most, especially with AMG’s 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and nine-speed automatic transmission handling the power. But this edition is more about aesthetic impact than brute acceleration.
Color Outside the Lines
What immediately sets the MANUFAKTUR Edition apart is the dramatic paintwork. The coupe arrives bathed in Mercedes’ signature matte finish, dubbed “Alpine Grey Magno,” accented with bold yellow AMG graphics that scream “look at me.” Matching 20-inch black AMG wheels with yellow highlights complete the high-contrast theme. For the cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz opts for a slightly subtler but still head-turning “Starling Blue Magno,” with the yellow graphics swapped for more cohesive black ones.
While the coupe leans into contrast, the cabrio offers a more integrated look—but make no mistake, both versions are unapologetically flashy.
Interior Drama with an AMG Twist
Inside, the design flair continues. Both versions get AMG Performance Seats wrapped in Nappa leather—black with yellow stitching for the coupe, and white with black accents for the cabriolet. Carbon fiber accents dot the interior, and illuminated AMG door sills add a bit of nighttime drama. It’s a cabin that’s more fashion show than race day—but still unmistakably AMG.
Package Pile-On
Mercedes-AMG didn’t stop at visuals. Both CLE MANUFAKTUR variants receive a cascade of packages typically optional on standard models. The coupe benefits from the AMG Night Package, which adds gloss black trim all around, plus the AMG Performance Studio Package that brings an aggressive front fascia, aero flics, and a rear lip spoiler.
Meanwhile, the cabriolet amps up the luxury angle with two carbon fiber appearance packages covering the front bumper, side sills, mirrors, and rear diffuser. It even gets a trunk spoiler for added style cred. Other shared goodies include the AMG Dynamic Plus Package—adding active engine mounts and small performance tweaks—and the Pinnacle Package, which brings augmented reality navigation and upgraded lighting.
The AMG Real Performance Sound system also makes the cut, offering a curated version of engine acoustics piped into the cabin. It’s more tech theater than mechanical might, but it rounds out the performance-lite vibe of the MANUFAKTUR Edition.
Limited Run, Unlimited Attention
Mercedes-Benz hasn’t yet announced pricing or production numbers, but don’t expect many of these to be built. Think of the AMG CLE MANUFAKTUR Edition as a style statement for buyers who want a sport coupe or cabriolet that leans harder into exclusivity and curb appeal than outright performance.
With deliveries expected to begin later this year, the CLE MANUFAKTUR Edition is perfect for those who want to stand out, even in a crowd of AMGs. It’s AMG attitude in a more refined, fashion-forward package—less Autobahn brawler, more boulevard stunner.
And yes, it comes with a custom car cover. Just in case you want to keep all that attitude wrapped up until you’re ready to make your entrance.
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